The days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping. The leaves are changing colors and in the northern areas snow flakes have swirled in the air. Winter is coming and it is time to get serious about feeding the birds. Birds come to our feeders in the Spring, Summer and Autumn because they are convenient and have special treats. Birds come to our feeders in the winter because they need the food. Many sources of their food have gone dormant for the winter. You want to feed the birds but you need a bird feeder or another bird feeder. What kind of feeder do you buy?
You need to answer a couple of questions. What type of birds winter in my area? What type of birds do I want to attract? Let's look at the type of birdfeeders available and the birds they attract.
Platform Feeders: The Platform Feeder will attract a large number of birds both large and small. This type of feeder will also give the most unobstructed view of the birds. The versatility of platform feeders is one reason they attract such a large variety of birds. A platform feeder can be placed on or near the ground, placed on a pole or hung from a tree. In fact, platform feeders can even be placed under another feeder to catch the falling seed. Among the birds you can attract with a platform feeder are cardinals, titmice, juncos, jays, towhees, chickadees, native sparrows, and doves. Platform feeders are difficult to squirrel proof. At best they can be made squirrel resistant. Some platform feeders have roofs that make it difficult for squirrels to enter the feeder. Others have a grate that fits over the birdseed and squirrels and other critters have a difficult time getting to the food. All platform feeders must have drainage holes, generally a grate in the bottom, to allow rain water to drain out. If snow or sleet are a part of your Winter weather, you should consider a platform feeder with a roof. Some platform feeders, known as fly through feeders, have a built in roof. You can also purchase a roof to fit over your feeder. For a wide variety of birds you can't beat a platform feeder.