As summer ends and the weather cools and plants are starting to die back putting their remaining energy towards producing seeds, animals are also getting prepared for the change of seasons. Birds and insects that migrate to warmer regions for winter are eating as much as possible to gain the weight needed to fuel their travels. Monarch butterflies migrate as far as the mountains in central Mexico. Some birds migrate farther; some like the Arctic Tern travel from above the Arctic Circle in Canada to winter in Antarctica. It takes time and lots of food to gain weight. Some people help the birds by putting out feeders at this time of year. Another option, which costs nothing, is to let your garden plants go to seed. It may look messy but the birds will love you for it.
One thing to remember when feeding birds is that gathering so many birds to one location will also attract predators. Placing a birdfeeder at least 6 feet away from shrubs and low plantings will discourage predators like cats and foxes, however placing a feeder in too open an area may encourage winged predators like hawks or falcons.
Another concern with feeding birds at a birdfeeder is the transmission of disease. Whenever large numbers of living things gather together, animals, birds or people, diseases can spread easily. Keeping feeders clean, dry and free of mold is one of the easiest ways to prevent disease from starting. Cleaning up seed debris from the ground keeps away rats, mice and other disease carriers. If there are multiple feeders in a yard, keeping them as far apart as possible will cut down on direct disease transmission between birds.
The above considerations aside, the benefits of bird feeding and backyard bird watching are worth the effort. While you observe the habits of numerous species, up close, without the need of binoculars, you are also taking a relaxing, contemplative break from your hectic daily routine.
