Fine feeders for feathered friends
Whether you’re a serious avian authority or just want to provide a welcome perch for backyard visitors, a bird feeder can attract a fine flock of friends.
Tips from the experts:
Place feeder at least five feet from trees and shrubs.
Invest in a squirrel-proof feeder.
Clean seed feeders every two weeks, and hummingbird feeders once a week.
Some birders have begun to monitor and journal the birds that frequent their feeder. Such observation is important to the scientific community, with many established ornithologists using information from home birders to supplement their research. You can find out more at www.sonomabirding.org.
Brolly girl bird bistro
Brolly girl welcomes all the cool chicks to hang out in her bistro. Made of sculptural metal, the “brolly” (umbrella) she holds protects birds and seeds from rain and squirrels. The base has drainage holes and a lip for birds to rest on. Hanging hook included.
Price: $32.95
www.weatherconnection.com
Contemporary copper bird feeder
A swirl of copper creates a stunning outdoor accent that is as functional as it is beautiful. From the Vasse Vaught studio in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, the design shields seeds and birds and is squirrel-resistant. Weathers to a soft green patina.
Hanger included.
Price: $80
www.fireandfinesse.com
English Garden stained glass feeder
This delicate-looking feeder is actually made of rust-resistant steel with a filigree base, and topped by six panels of stained glass The open design has metal bars spaced to let birds in, and keep squirrels out. Birds can feed at the six stations or rest and feed on the bottom tray.
Price: $46.29
Friedman’s Home Improvement Center, 1360 Broadway, Sonoma; 707.939.8811.
Woodlink triple tube seed feeder
This food court for birds has nine seed ports in three seed tubes. Each tube can have its own seed type, attracting a variety of species. The top lifts for easy filling, and its slippery surface protects your dinner guests from squirrels.
Price: $44.99
Wedekind’s Nursery, 21095
Broadway, Sonoma; 707.938.2727.
Blue glass kaleidoscope hummingbird feeder
This brilliant blue hummingbird feeder is spun with a kaleidoscope of colors and two red flower feeding ports that offer hummingbirds a natural feeding position. Each crystal glass feeder is hand-blown by Czech artisans. “S” hanging hook included.
Price: $39.95
www.backyardbird.com
Heated, deck-mount bath
Now that you’ve fed your feathered friends, provide them with fresh, unfrozen water all winter long. Regular bathing maintains feathers for flying and insulation. A steel frame clamps easily to any standard railing (2 x 4 inches) without tools. To prevent freezing, a thermostat regulates the temperature.
Price: $69.95
www.duncraft.com/Heated-Deck-Mount-Bath-P905C12.aspx
Gumball Machine Bird Feeder
Add a touch of nostalgia and a little humor to your yard with a hanging Gumball Machine bird feeder. A simple lift top and fill makes the feeder functional and durable.
Protect from freezing.
Price: $39.95
www.duncraft.com
