Perky-Pet® Garden Sip & Seed™ Bird Feeder

All About Wild Birds

Wild birds are so common to us that we often glance at them without a second thought. When we really look at them, observe them and enjoy their special qualities, we can truly appreciate some of nature's amazing creatures.

Wild Bird Feeders - Expert Tips

Hanging Your Feeder

• Ideally a sheltered southeastern exposure location is best for hanging bird feeders since birds like to feed in the sun and out of the wind. Birds also prefer not to have any obstructions over their feeding area so they can see any predators.
  

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• Bird Baths - A clean and reliable water source is an excellent way to attract birds to your yard, especially those birds that do not necessarily eat seed or nectar. All birds will seek out a water supply, not only for drinking but also for keep themselves clean and healthy.

• Bird Houses - These are a good way to attract those species of birds that nest in holes. These structures should be made of an untreated wood (pine, cedar, etc.) and should have ventilation and drainage holes. It should be durable, and easy to check and clean.
  

Feeder Care

• Keeping your feeder clean and full of fresh bird seed is very important to the health of visiting birds. It is recommended that you clean your wild bird feeder every two weeks.
  

Video Help & Advice from Perky-Pet®

• Check out our series on how to attract birds to your backyard. We have a large amount of video advice and help for all levels of bird watcher!
  

Wild Bird Feeders - FAQs

Protecting Birds FAQs

Q: What can I do about the cat that keeps visiting my feeder?

A: If it is your neighbor's precious Fluffy, you may want to suggest that they tie a bell around the cat's neck to alert the birds when the cat is near.

Q: How do I discourage squirrels and raccoons?

A: Here are a few simple and effective suggestions for keeping the squirrels and raccoons off your feeder.

Bird Seed FAQs

Q: What are the most popular bird seeds to use?

A: Black Oil Sunflower Seed is the most popular bird seed. It is much smaller than the traditional sunflower seed. It is best for those birds with smaller bills, such as the sparrow, junco and goldfinch.

Q: How do I prevent seeds from sprouting under my feeder?

A: You will need to sterilize your seed to prevent it from germinating. This will not alter the attractiveness or the nutritional value of the seed in any way

Cleaning FAQs

Q: Birds at my feeder look sick, what should I do?

A: The best thing to do is to stop feeding the birds temporarily. Remove the feeders and throw out all of the seed. Thoroughly wash your feeders as suggested in Tips for a clean feeding station.

Q: How do I clean my bird feeders?

A: Before filling your feeder with fresh seed, it is recommended that the following precautions are taken:

1. Remove all old seed.
2. Soak feeder in a light water/bleach solution (9 parts water to 1 part bleach).
3. Scrub feeder and allow to air dry.

Feeder Types FAQs

Q: I own the Window Feeder. Lately it won't stick to the window. What can I do?

A: The first suggestion is to slightly moisten the cups. If you have already tried moistening the suction cups, we have a few other tips.

Q: Will I find only finches at my finch feeder?

A: No. Pine Siskins, Redpolls, Mourning Doves, Juncos, Towhees, and Cowbirds are all attracted to thistle seed.