Bird Feeders and such

[SteveZ]

We'd like to set out a couple of bird feeders in our CYV. The question is - what kind will work? Also, which feed is the most successful? We're not sure what kind of birds can be easily attracted (South of 466).

Thanks!

[KayakerNC]

We'd like to set out a couple of bird feeders in our CYV. The question is - what kind will work? Also, which feed is the most successful? We're not sure what kind of birds can be easily attracted (South of 466).
Thanks!

Wife's sister who live in S FL introduced us to these feeders, I've seen them at Kmart, Lowes, Walmart, etc, for around $10. They are made of cedar, 5-sided, and can easily be hung from a shepherds crook. Which makes them easy to move, if necessary. Bottom is perforated, so seed stays drier.
http://www.cedar-works.com/newsite/NaturesMarket/N214_Popup.htm

[mulligan]

Hate to be a spoil sport, but from my experience in naples with about 1700 condo units, you,ll feed birds by day, and rats by night.

[ijusluvit]

We've had the most success with thistle seed in fabric feeder bags. The bags and seed is commonly available. Thistle seed attracts finches, active little birds gold/black or brown/red. They are fun to watch.

When we had wooden feeders, they drew some nice songbirds, but squirrels seemed to find a way to get to the feeders, damage them and scatter the seeds on the ground. That's how you attract the squirrels which don't have the cute fuzzy tails.

[joannej]

Hate to be a spoil sport, but from my experience in naples with about 1700 condo units, you,ll feed birds by day, and rats by night.

We have a problem with red ants in our courtyard villa. I'm afraid to put out a feeder because I just don't want to attract more red ants!! Perhaps planting trees and plants with berries will attract birds. I also notice that they go from home to home when the sprinklers are running. When we had our bird feeder in PA we did attract all kinds of wildlife, and unfortunately, a few rats too.

[Cassie325]

We put a hummingbird feeder in a few months ago....not kidding....5 minutes after we hung it up we had 2 hummers feeding at it.

Haven't seen any since...:shrug::shrug:


On another note...I did not know there were any rat issues in TV's until I heard there are traps hidden on the golf courses and are checked/emptied daily.

YUK!!!

[Barbywins]

When we moved here we were told bird feeders are not encouraged because the dropped seeds attract rats which attract snakes. I will watch the birds from afar

[SteveZ]

We put a hummingbird feeder in a few months ago....not kidding....5 minutes after we hung it up we had 2 hummers feeding at it.

Haven't seen any since...:shrug::shrug:


On another note...I did not know there were any rat issues in TV's until I heard there are traps hidden on the golf courses and are checked/emptied daily.

YUK!!!
As far as the hummingbirds are concerned, they much prefer cooler fluid. If the feeder is in the sun and gets warm/hot, the birds pass it by.

[F16 1UB]

Use this chart for an idea when the little guys may show up in your area. Cassie I'd hang your feeder NLT 2/21. 1 part sugar, 3 parts, water, and maybe a drop of red food coloring. Been using the same ingredients for 20 years in OH & KY. Once you establish the arrival date mark it on your calendar. Next year you may miss it by 1 day or even be right on. Here in KY I expect them on 4/25. Baby Canadian Geese will be hatched 4/20. Lord I hope we're in TV by then. Best times to observe them is crack of dawn and sunset. And yes I've taken plenty of pics of them. Always fascinated me.

http://www.hummingbirds.net/map.html

http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb176/F16-1UB/DSCF2229-1.jpg