Bird Issues

Avian Influenza Click Here for more information.

Window Collisions/strikes are a major issue effecting birds.  Each year millions of birds are killed by striking windows.  To learn more and to find out how you can help, check out this Bird Saver article here.

Feeding birds year-round is an enjoyable activity for many people. However, we may worry that this actually harm birds rather than help them. The following myths are put to rest…

Feeding birds does not prevent them from migrating.

Birds migrate in response to factors such as length of daylight and weather, not to food availability. In fact, birds need more food during long migrations, so your feeder may be a welcome stop for more northern species you don’t normally see.

Birds cannot become dependent on feeders.

Most birds use many sources of food and do not rely on just one. If your feeder happens to go empty, most birds will find food elsewhere, which means food found naturally. Loss of habitat due to human development does make it more difficult each year for birds to find necessary food, particularly during the winter months, so providing a ready source of seeds, fruits, and suet can help many birds.

Perches on feeders are okay for birds.

Birds’ are unlikely to stick to metal perches in winter, because they don’t have sweat glands in their feet. Their legs and feet are made of mostly tough tendons that have little blood flow during cold weather. Also, a feeder with perches allows many birds to feed peacefully at the same time.

Uncooked rice cannot swell inside a bird’s stomach and kill it.

Rice is a grain that many birds will eat, uncooked, in the wild; they have no trouble digesting it. Many wedding parties choose to throw bird seed instead of rice, as birds will be more attracted to the seed and eat it more quickly.