Taking Care of Outdoor Bird Houses and Bird Feeders 

For many there is nothing more exciting than getting up in the morning and watching birds feeding and nesting in outdoor bird houses and feeders. Outdoor bird houses and feeders are very popular with bird enthusiasts and bird watchers. Bird watchers learn a great deal about birds by watching them each day.  Many birding enthusiasts do not realize the fact that owning outdoor bird houses and feeders requires more attention than just stocking a wild bird feeder with seed and peeking in the birdhouse. To keep birds healthy and safe, homeowners must properly set up and maintain outdoor bird houses and feeders.

The most important step in protecting birds is to place outdoor bird houses and feeders in a safe location.  Place outdoor bird houses and feeders in very open locations to give birds a chance to react to any predators that may be stalking. Outdoor bird houses and feeders can be hung from poles making them virtually impossible for predators to access.  When hanging Outdoor bird houses and feeders always place them in high locations away from any type of  perch that can be used by predators, such as cats.  Even if you do not own a cat, it is important to heed this advice when placing outdoor bird houses and feeders since stray and neighboring cats can easily access your back yard and try to attack what they consider to be easy prey.

Hawks can be attracted to your outdoor bird houses and feeders. If you see a hawk coming near your  bird houses  feeder or garden bird bath regularly, remove them  for a few days and keep your eyes open for the hawk.  Once the hawk has not seen a buffet, and left, you can put them back out.  The hawk will leave your feathered friends alone once its free meal ticket has been called in.

Another important step you can take to ensure the health and safety of the birds that your outdoor bird houses and feeders attract, is to keep your items clean. Most people forget this important step. Outdoor bird houses, can attract and develop parasites which cause sickness and disease to spread among birds nesting in them.  People are used to cleaning their indoor bird cages but do not think to clean outdoor bird houses and feeders.  You should clean your outdoor bird houses and feeders regularly.

Wild bird feeders need to be cleaned much more frequently because of the birds coming and going on a daily basis. Empty and clean all wild bird feeders at least once or twice a month and  replace the seed with fresh, dry, bird seed to keep the birds from eating moldy seed which can make them sick.  
Remove any seeds from the ground around your wild bird feeders to discourage birds from attempting to eat it. 

Outdoor bird house and feeders can be fun for your entire family.  Outdoor bird houses and feeders give you a chance to observe many different different  birds without ever leaving your yard.  In order to enjoy this treat for a very long time it is important that you and your family work hard to maintain a clean, healthy, and safe environment for your birds.