Backyard bird feeders are a staple for many DFW homes. The Metroplex offers some excellent opportunities to spot native birds and their migratory cousins. Putting some thought into the type of feeders you choose can help you not only attract the kinds of birds you want to see, but also keep other animals from stealing all the food.

Keeping Varmints at Bay

If you have squirrels in your neighborhood, they’ll regularly empty a bird feeder while digging through it for sunflower seeds. Not only do thieving squirrels keep birds away, the seed that they discard will sprout under the feeder, which can hurt your lawn.

Where you place your bird feeder will keep squirrels out. Avoid hanging it over a tree branch or on a fence. Both provide easy access to squirrels. Consider hanging the bird feeder on a decorative shepherd’s hook staked into a flower bed or from the eaves of your patio cover — places where squirrels can’t climb.

Types of Bird Feeders

Many DFW homeowners have a couple of types of bird feeders. Hoppers and platforms are perfect for the typical seed, corn, and sunflower birdseed blend. These feeders attract a variety of birds, which will give you a show year round. From bright red cardinals and bluebirds that winter in the south to sparrows and mockingbirds that make the Metroplex home year round, a basic feeder is all you need. You can even attract the occasional brightly colored painting bunting.

It helps to have some native habitat in your yard to encourage birds to live close to your bird feeder. These sheltering native plants provides nesting areas and cover for your feathered friend.

Hummingbird Feeders

Many Dallas-Fort Worth homeowners look forward to spring when hummingbirds return to the area. A variety of hummingbirds call the Metroplex home from mid-spring to early fall and provide entertainment to delighted humans during their stay. Hummingbird feeders hold a sugary liquid that attracts the nectar-seeking birds. You can buy nectar or make your own. It helps to either hang a feeder that’s red or to add a couple of drops of red food coloring to the nectar to attract the birds.

Hummingbird feeders require maintenance every few days because the nectar goes bad fairly quickly. And when you choose a location for your feeder, remember that other creatures are attracted to the nectar — like bees and wasps. Place it in a less-used portion of your covered patio or hang it from a nearby tree. Shade keeps the nectar fresher longer.

Enjoy the wide variety of birds with bird feeders in your backyard. They’ll provide beauty, songs and endless entertainment.

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