How to Use Platform Bird Feeders

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     Amongst the many types of bird feeders that you can choose the most common, and easiest to make, are the platform bird feeders. This type of feeder has a flat tray like base with short sides that are only tall enough to keep the bird food from falling out. It should also have a roof to it to keep the food dry in case of rain or snow. It also needs to have some holes for drainage in case it does get wet. You do not want puddles to appear in the seed you are feeding to the birds. This can spoil the seed and so keep the birds form coming back. One way to avoid this is to use a wire screen bottom instead of having to put holes in a wooden or metal base. This takes care of any water problem.

If you are trying to attract a lot of birds then the placement of these feeders is very important. You will have more luck if they are not out in the open with no cover. The kinds of birds that will be attracted to platform bird feeders will be happier if the feeders are in a more secluded spot. Putting them in amongst the bushes, trees and shrubs will be much smarter. Evergreens are a good choice to offer this security as they are also great for protection from windy weather. But, despite the need to put the bird feeders in an area with lots of trees for protection, they cannot be too close or the birds could become easy prey for cats. As well, the bird food might become a treat for animals like squirrels that can jump from the trees to the feeders. Therefore, you should try to put them in a treed area but at least ten to twelve feet away from the trees themselves. Remember, this type of bird feeder is more likely to attract other creatures since there are no sides to protect the seeds or other foods against squirrels, chipmunks or other rodents.

Having a platform bird feeder can prove to be a very rewarding experience as you watch your feathered visitors take a break when they stop in for a meal. They attract more variety of birds than the other types of feeders so depending on where you live you may see jays, doves, blackbirds, finches, sparrows to name only a few.