Celebrate Birds During National Bird Feeding Month
One aspect of geocaching that I especially enjoy is encountering wildlife. Since geocaching often takes you off the beaten path, you have new opportunities to observe wildlife, in situ. For me, that is priceless.
January marks National Bird Feeding Month. It’s a time to remember our feathered friends that add to the enjoyment of the outdoors. It is also a time to create awareness about the proper way to use a bird feeder. If you’re going to set up a bird feeder, you’re committing to the long haul. A bird feeder is a reliable source of food. Make it one.
Birds are vulnerable this time of year. Food resources are scarce. The weather can be tough, like this past week in the land of 10,000 lakes. Below zero temperatures and significant snow cover are especially challenging for all wildlife.
Place the feeder well away from buildings and trees to discourage squirrels. Squirrels are hungry too, but their metabolism gives them more of an advantage. Besides, a bird feeder, properly placed, can benefit resident populations and migrants alike. These are stressed animals, in need of food. Use a squirrel guard to prevent loss of seed stock.
Provide other food sources such as suet and fruits to supply a complete diet. Birds are stressed as it is, to say nothing of dietary deficiencies. Give them a source of high quality nutrition to help them through the stressful winter months.
Birds add so much pleasure to our time outdoors. Return the favor and provide them a reliable food source when they need it most.
