Feeding backyard birds is a quintessentially White activity. It embodies respect for nature, love of animals, and generosity and empathy. It is an educational lifetime hobby that can be enjoyed by young and old, and can even serve as a source of solace and spiritual renewal in difficult times.
Feeding birds doesn’t require a large property, or even that you own your home. I have had birdfeeders in the back of a townhouse and even on the balcony of a third-floor apartment.
Although many expensive and complex birdfeeders are available, a simple tube-type or hopper-type feeder will work fine. It should be hung in a relatively clear area, ideally with some brush or trees nearby for the birds to perch on.
The best feeds to attract songbirds are nut and fruit mixes and black oil sunflower seed. Avoid the cheap seed mixes that are sold in big box stores. They generally contain a lot of millet and milo, which most birds don’t eat.
Water also attracts birds. Any shallow dish or tray elevated above ground level will work. Be sure to put it several feet from any brush that could hide a cat or other predator.
One of the best sources for information on backyard birds is the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology. They are a great resource for everything about backyard birds, and also have opportunities to participate in ongoing research such as bird species counts.
