Content
- Feeding birds in autumn: time for dumplings, birdhouses & Co.
- Feed silos: the plus in terms of hygiene
- But: What kind of food is right at the top of the menu for feathered guests? Here is a short overview:
- Always keep cats and rats away from food
- Tips
Blue tits like peanuts
Feeding birds in autumn: time for dumplings, birdhouses & Co.
The bird feeding in winter has a long tradition in this country and is still controversial. The Nature Conservation Association Germany e. V. is of the opinion that the feeding of the animals is recommended, especially in winter from an environmental pedagogical point of view. Well-known scientists, such as the ornithologist Prof. dr. Bertold even recommend feeding the birds into the summer. However, critics argue that the natural selection mechanism would be disturbed if we simply put the food on the silver platter.
We believe that you should do exactly what you think is right. Nevertheless, we would like to give you some advice on the way to winter, as regards the proper and meaningful feeding of blackbird, thrush, finch and titmice.
Feed silos: the plus in terms of hygiene
These feeders have the advantage that the birds do not have the opportunity to walk around in the feed and contaminate it with their feces. Thus, a possible transmission of pathogens is counteracted and the spread feed in the storage silo can not spoil over a longer period. It should be noted that the feed dispensers are placed in such a way that they are largely protected from precipitation and that no rot can form inside. Apart from the occasional cleaning of the reservoir and the refilling with as dry as possible feed, no further maintenance is necessary.
But: What kind of food is right at the top of the menu for feathered guests? Here is a short overview:
Sunflower seeds are the staple food that almost all birds love and the commercially available feed mixes can not go wrong. As a grain eater, titmice are especially susceptible to plant seeds that are stored in fat and are available as Meisen rings. It is very easy to make it yourself, who takes the bought, if possible use those without plastic net, as the animals often hurt themselves on the legs. To avoid whatsoever salted foods, especially bacon and boiled potatoes. Bread is also taboo for birds, as it inflates too much in the digestive system of the animals.
Always keep cats and rats away from food
Although birds naturally recognize and react to dangers very quickly, birdhouses should be fixed to a sufficiently high (at least 1.50 meters) and not too thick pole in the ground. If necessary, a cat protection belt or grille under the house helps to brake the four-legged intruders. Care should also be taken when feeding or dropping or scattering food to feed the birds on the ground. Rats lure this pretty fast, so you should remove food leftovers regularly.
Tips
Even in winter, clean your bird feeder regularly to keep pathogens out of the animals. And: In the vicinity of the food source, it is best to place a suitable potion, which must be kept free of ice, especially in freezing temperatures.