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 Previous pageFeeding ... When feeding birds it is advisable to use a dish for the food, this should be washed to reduce the risk of bird diseases such as salmonella and bird pox. Bird foods include nuts, fruit, suet and sunflower seed. It is a good idea to provide water for birds in your garden, whether they are nesting or just feeding they will need access to water. Any water provided should be shallow e.g. a couple of inches, so as not to pose a hazard for smaller birds. Water needs to be clean and regularly replenished especially in the Summer. When positioning tables or water thought should be given to avoiding natural predators so a stand provides some protection for the birds. Caring for your birdhouse ... Only use non toxic treatments on birdhouses. The original colour of reed will change as it weathers. This is a natural process and is unavoidable. We recommend that the thatched roof is coated periodically with varnish. For added protection of the thatched roof against marauding birds wire mesh may be introduced after purchase. Birdhouses on stands are vulnerable to high winds and should be securely anchored. All houses and boxes feature access to the nesting area to allow cleaing to take place. This should be done after the birds have finished breeding, at the latest this will be September or October. Nesting boxes should not be disturbed during breeding. In a natural nesting enviroment birds have territorial rights which they defend, these are based upon the location of their nest. Many of these designs incorporate both houses and feeding tables. Birds may use the nesting boxes all year round. A good time to set up a nesting box is in the Autumn so that species which don't fly south for the winter can use the box as shelter. Cotton wool or wood shavings can be used to line the bottom of the nesting box, providing extra insulation for the birds in winter. |
