Ground Feeder Heritage Collection

Wild bird ground feeders are devices or areas in your garden designed for offering bird food directly on the ground. They can be simple trays, platforms, or specialized feeders placed at ground level. They are important because they cater to ground-feeding birds like sparrows, doves, and towhees that may not visit elevated feeders. Ground feeders provide easy access to food and help attract a wider variety of bird species to your garden.

Ground-feeding birds enjoy a variety of foods, including:

• Seeds: A mix of bird seeds, such as millet, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn, is a popular choice.

• Insects: Mealworms and suet pellets are rich in protein and highly appealing to many ground-feeding species.

• Fruits: Offer chopped fruits like apples, pears, or berries for a sweet treat.

• Nuts: Crushed or shelled peanuts are a good source of energy for ground-feeding birds.

Proper maintenance is crucial to keep ground feeders clean and prevent the spread of diseases among birds. Here’s what you can do:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean ground feeders every few days to remove uneaten food and debris. Use a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) to disinfect periodically.

• Avoid Overfeeding: Provide only enough food that birds can consume in a day to prevent food spoilage and accumulation of waste.

• Choose Appropriate Locations: Position ground feeders in open areas away from dense shrubs to minimize hiding spots for predators.

• Drainage: Ensure good drainage to prevent water accumulation, which can attract pests and promote mold growth.

You can protect ground-feeding birds by taking these precautions:

• Predator Guards: Install wire mesh or a protective cage around ground feeders to deter cats, squirrels, and other potential threats.

• Elevated Perches: Place some nearby shrubs or low branches where birds can take cover quickly if they sense danger.

• Weather Shelters: Position feeders under natural or artificial shelters, like tree canopies or awnings, to shield birds from rain and snow.

Choosing the right ground feeder depends on your garden’s layout, your target bird species, and your preferences. Some options include:

• Tray Feeders: Simple and open trays work well for a wide range of ground-feeding birds.

• Platform Feeders: Slightly elevated platforms provide protection from damp ground and are suitable for larger birds like doves.

• Hopper Feeders: These elevated feeders offer both perching and ground-feeding options for various bird sizes.

Consider the bird species in your area and the types of food you want to offer when making your choice.