Going on vacation doesn’t mean you have to stop feeding the wild birds that visit your yard. With a little preparation, you can ensure that your feathered friends continue to receive the nourishment they need while you’re away. Here are some tips on how to feed wild birds on vacation.
Plan Ahead
Before you leave for vacation, it’s important to plan ahead and make arrangements for someone to take care of feeding the birds. You can ask a friend or neighbor who is familiar with the feeding routine to take over while you’re away. Alternatively, you can hire a pet sitter or bird feeder who specializes in caring for wild birds.
Use Feeders
Using feeders is an effective way to provide food for wild birds while you’re away. There are different types of bird feeders available, such as hopper feeders, suet feeders, and tube feeders. Choose the type that suits the birds that frequent your yard and fill them with enough food to last until your return.
Hopper Feeders
Hopper feeders are great for attracting larger birds like cardinals and jays. They have a large capacity and can hold various types of seeds such as sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and millet.
Suet Feeders
Suet feeders are ideal for providing high-energy food for insect-eating birds like woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees. You can fill them with suet cakes or homemade suet made from ingredients like peanut butter and cornmeal.
Tube Feeders
Tube feeders are designed for smaller birds like finches and sparrows. They have small perches and ports that prevent larger birds from accessing the food inside. Tube feeders can hold thistle seed or nyjer seed which is a favorite of finches.
Clean the Feeders
Before you leave, make sure to clean the feeders thoroughly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. Use a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water to disinfect the feeders. Rinse them well and let them dry completely before filling them with food.
Provide Water
In addition to food, wild birds need access to clean water for drinking and bathing. If you have a bird bath in your yard, make sure it is filled with fresh water before you leave. Alternatively, you can install a dripper or bubbler that will keep the water moving and prevent it from becoming stagnant.
Conclusion
In conclusion, feeding wild birds on vacation requires some planning and preparation. Using feeders, cleaning them properly and providing fresh water are all important steps in ensuring that your feathered friends are well-fed while you’re away. By taking these steps, you can enjoy your vacation knowing that your backyard birds are well taken care of.