With hundreds of different bird feeders on the market these days, when first getting into birding, it can be difficult to decide which is best for you and your backyard. Each variety of feeder typically comes with a wide variety of feeding options, and you can usually find one that fits the type of feed you are looking to use. Most feeders will use a seed type of bird food, while others are manufactured specifically for certain types of feed, like suet feeders, hummingbird nectar feeders, and Nyjer feeders to name a few.
Today we will highlight perhaps one of the most popular and easiest methods for attracting and feeding birds in your backyard; the platform or tray feeders and how to properly set them up and start seeing birds right away.
As we stated above, platform feeders will attract both the largest variety of birds and the greatest number of birds upon setting up. This type of feeder is conducive to both perching birds and ground feeding birds to do the platform’s sturdy structure.
Maintenance
Platform feeders require a little bit of maintenance to keep them clean and to keep your visiting birds happy. This is mainly due in part to the fact that this variety of feeders are uncovered and thus susceptible to environmental conditions like rain and snow. You will want to make sure your tray feeder has ample drainage to keep your seed dry and avoid any mold or other fungal growth atop your seed. Most platform feeders are equipped with a screened bottom or a flat bottom with several pre-drilled holes to allow for proper drainage.
Types of birds
Again, you can expect many different species of birds to visit your platform feeding system if properly maintained. You will notice some ground-feeders like doves, jays, sparrows, and blackbirds as well as a variety of songbirds like grosbeaks and starlings.
Tips
As with any feeders, squirrels can become a nuisance to you and your birds. Ensure you have a squirrel baffle in place no matter how you end up installing your platform feeder. If you are looking for a lower-maintenance option, look for a platform feeder that has a small roof or cover to keep the weather off your seed.