Bird Feeding in North America

Bird Feeding

Migratory Bird Feeding in North America

May 2010

For hundreds of year’s migratory birds instinctively make the trek from their equatorial wintering habitat to their breeding areas in the North. The journey sometimes as long as 3000 km., places demanding and excessive stress on these travelling birds.  Events such as predator stalking, accidental collisions with manmade obstacles, lack of secure and safe resting areas, depletion of natural food supply as well as unfavorable weather and natural events contribute to the challenges.

In the big picture we as humans cannot change this migration cycle. However we can all be a part of, and minimize the some of the dangers that contribute to a bird’s survival of the trip. As a community, we should consider very real issues such as mirrored glass on high-rise buildings. Thousands of birds per year die due this structural oversight in design. We can also offer some help during the migration by keeping a source of seeds and water available at all times, provide clean bird houses, and if possible provide a resting area that is relatively safe from predators.

The correct mix of seeds contributes to the balanced flow of birds that pass through your area. It also provides the correct sustenance that will allow the birds to continue their trek or prepare for the mating and rearing of their young throughout the spring and summer. The type of food provided depends on the bird feeder. Native birds will be looking for seeds that provide source of nutritional elements that support propagation. As well, migratory birds will require seeds that provide a higher source of energy to continue their journey.

By maintaining a spring feeding regiment this will also encourage migrating birds to nest in your area rather than continue their migration elsewhere. As spring turns to summer, more natural foods become available. However rain and the availability of water sources dwindle. To continue keeping wild birds coming to your yard, always be vigilant at keeping fresh seeds and water available.