How to feed birds at schoolIn the cold winter months insects, fruits and seeds can be hard to find and many birds may struggle to find enough to eat. This is why we put food out for them in our gardens, parks and schools. Just like us, different birds like to eat different foods. So by putting out a mix of foods, it is more likely that lots of different birds will come to your school grounds to feed, and you'll see more during your birdwatch. There are all kinds of ways to feed birds, from buying bird tables and hanging feeders, to making them yourself. Whatever device you decide to use, don't forget to keep your feeders clean. Bird tablesBird tables are flat trays with raised edges that stop food from falling onto the ground. Bird tables should also have gaps at each corner so rain water can run off. Lots of different birds can feed on bird tables and you can put all sorts of food on them. Nut feedersNut feeders are made from steel mesh. The holes in a nut feeder need to be big enough for birds to get their beaks through but small enough to stop them from taking large chunks of food. Holes that are 6mm are a good size. Birds like blue tits visit nut feeders regularly. Seed feedersSeed feeders are clear plastic tubes with holes for birds to take seeds out of. They can hold sunflower seeds or seed feeder mixes. Birds like siskins, greenfinches and tits like feeding at seed feeders. Fat ballsFat balls can be hung from posts and bird tables. They are made from fat, seeds, nuts and oats. You can buy them in the shops but it's lots more fun to make your own! If you buy fat balls make sure you take them out of the mesh bag first. Food scrapsBirds will eat all sorts of food that we throw away. You can scatter food on the ground for birds to eat. If you do it is important to make sure that you clean up food that is not eaten. WaterIt is also important to leave clean water out for birds to drink. A good way to do this is to get a bird bath. A bird bath should be sturdy with rough, sloping edges and 2.5–10 cm deep. You will need to clean the bird bath once a week so make sure you can lift it easily.
Let the birds eat out in style - turn your junk into a bird restaurant! More... |  |
|