Encyclopaedia of Birdcare

Choosing Equipment

When deciding on such items as feeders and accessories for the bird garden from the wide range available from a specialised dealer, the process can be simplified and mistakes should be avoided if the following points are kept in mind:

• The size and nature of the garden and the scale of the plans, along with the budget available.

• The types of birds which it is desired to encourage (or to discourage)(see attracting particular birds).

• The presence of predators (such as cats or foxes) and nuisances (for example squirrels or rats).

• Personal preferences, such as a liking for traditional bird tables or watching from a particular armchair.

Once these matters have been settled, it should be possible to make decisions such as these:

• Numbers, types and sizes of feeders, seed trays, bird tables, nest boxes and accessories.

• Types and quantities of foods for birds to be provided.

• Precautions to be taken against hazards and problems.

• Any modifications to the garden itself which may be desirable (see gardening for birds).

There is no shortage of books dealing with attracting birds and looking after them, but catalogues issued by specialised suppliers of bird equipment and foods for birds, such as wild bird news, are free of charge and offer much practical advice as well as showing the range of items available (see buying equipment).

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A Bird On! Definition from the Encyclopaedia of Birdcare
Copyright © 1998 by Jacobi Jayne & Company.