Create a Bird Feeder for
Australian Native Birds
Creating a bird feeder is a simple way to bring native Australian birds closer to your backyard while supporting local wildlife. This guide will walk you through the steps to design and build a bird feeder that’s safe, inviting, and beneficial for a variety of native bird species, including lorikeets, kookaburras, and rosellas. Let’s explore how to create a bird feeder that enhances your garden while offering a sanctuary for Australia’s unique birdlife.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Type of Bird Feeder
Different bird species are attracted to different types of feeders, so choosing the right style is essential for attracting native Australian birds.
- Tray Feeders are great for larger birds like magpies and cockatoos, as they offer space for birds to perch.
- Hanging Feeders are suitable for smaller species like finches and wrens, as they provide easy access and minimize competition from larger birds.
- Nectar Feeders are ideal for lorikeets and other nectar loving birds; ensure they are designed to prevent contamination.
Tips
- Choose a durable material like metal or recycled plastic to withstand weather conditions.
- Ensure feeders are easy to clean to maintain bird health.
Research which bird feeder styles suit the native bird species commonly found in your area.
Step 2: Selecting Bird-Friendly Food Options
The food you offer in your bird feeder has a big impact on which native birds visit your garden and ensures their diet remains healthy and natural.
- Use high-quality seed mixes designed for Australian native birds, avoiding seeds like sunflower seeds that can attract pests.
- Fresh fruit like apple slices or homemade nectar can attract nectar-feeding birds.
- Plant native flowering shrubs or grasses around the feeder to provide a more natural food source.
Tips
- Avoid feeding bread or processed foods, as they can harm birds.
- Offer small amounts of food to avoid waste and prevent pests.
Make a list of native plants you could grow to supplement bird feeding naturally.
Step 3: Installing Your Bird Feeder
Positioning your bird feeder correctly is key to making it accessible to birds while keeping it safe from predators and providing a comfortable viewing experience.
- Place the feeder in a spot where birds can easily see it but with nearby shrubs for shelter.
- Position the feeder at a height that’s safe from pets, like cats, and secure it to withstand wind or bird activity.
Tips
- Mount feeders at eye level to create a great viewing spot without disturbing birds.
- Avoid placing the feeder near reflective windows to prevent bird collisions.
Walk around your garden and identify two potential spots to install your bird feeder.
Step 4: Maintaining and Cleaning Your Bird Feeder
Regular cleaning of your bird feeder keeps it hygienic and ensures the birds stay healthy, especially when feeding larger groups.
- Clean weekly using mild soap and hot water, and rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.
- Remove uneaten food and dry the feeder fully before refilling to prevent mold growth.
Tips
- Keep a dedicated brush for feeder cleaning to make the task easier.
- If feeding nectar, clean more frequently as nectar spoils quickly.
- Schedule a reminder in your phone to clean the feeder regularly.
Common Errors and Misconceptions in Bird Feeding
Understanding common mistakes will help you maintain a safe and inviting environment for Australian native birds.
#1: Using Unhealthy Foods
Stick to bird-safe, native foods like seed mixes and avoid bread.
#2: Overfeeding
Offer small amounts to prevent food from going stale and to encourage natural foraging.
#3: Improper Cleaning
Regularly clean feeders to avoid the spread of disease among birds.
A friend found that reducing the amount of food in her feeder not only minimized waste but also encouraged more bird species to visit as they competed less for space.
Bring Native Birds to Your Garden
Creating a bird feeder is a wonderful way to attract and observe native Australian birds while supporting their natural diet. By following these steps, you’ll have a safe and inviting feeder that provides enjoyment for both you and local wildlife. Start with a simple design and adjust your setup based on the birds that visit!
Additional Resources for Bird Feeders
1. Books
- “Birdscaping Australian Gardens” by George Adams
- “The Australian Bird Guide” by Peter Menkhorst et al.
2. Websites
- Birds in Backyards: (www.birdsinbackyards.net)
- Australian Bird Feeding and Watering Guidelines: (www.birdlife.org.au)