So, you’ve set up a charming bird feeder near your home, envisioning delightful mornings filled with the chirping melodies of feathered visitors. But what you probably didn’t realize is that your bird feeder is almost always attracting more than just avian admirers. In fact, it might be making your life more difficult than you ever imagined and you don’t even know it yet!
The Unseen Consequences of Bird Feeders
Bird feeders are wonderful for attracting birds to your yard, providing entertainment and a connection with nature right outside your window. However, they can also unintentionally invite unwanted guests into YOUR home. I have seen this more than I can even remember.
The Mice Dilemma
Picture this: you fill up your bird feeder with a fresh batch of seeds, only to find that it’s not just the birds enjoying the feast. Mice have found their way to the buffet, and they’re not leaving anytime soon. Believe me, I’ve had my fair share of battles with these furry intruders.
Squirrel Shenanigans
And let’s not forget about the acrobatic antics of squirrels. I once watched in frustration as a squirrel practically performed a free Cirque du Soleil show onto MY bird feeder, scattering seeds everywhere and causing a mess.
Is This Really An Issue? Am I just Overreacting here?
By the time you start noticing signs of these unwanted guests inside your home, such as strange noises in the walls or droppings in the pantry, the problem has likely already reached a plateau. Mice, in particular, are notorious for their ability to go undetected for long periods, often setting up nests in secluded areas like the attic or crawl spaces where they can breed and multiply without interruption (especially with an unlimited food source). They venture outside only to forage for food, which, thanks to your bird feeder, is readily available just a stone’s throw away from their cozy hideout.
It’s a common misconception that you’ll only notice a mice infestation once you start seeing them scurrying across your kitchen floor or hear them rustling in the walls. In reality, by the time these “cliché” signs of a mice issue present themselves, the problem has likely escalated to a point where it requires professional intervention. And let’s not forget about the damage these critters can cause along the way – chewed wires, torn insulation, and contaminated food are just a few of the headaches on the list.
The Solution: Suet and Thistle Seeds
But fear not, for there is a solution to this bird feeder-induced chaos. By strategically choosing the right type of bird feed, you can minimize the risk of attracting unwanted wildlife while still enjoying the company of your feathered friends.
Why Suet and Thistle Seeds?
Unlike traditional seed mixes, suet and thistle seeds are less appealing to pests like mice and squirrels. I learned this firsthand when I switched to suet and thistle seeds near my house and noticed a significant decrease in pest activity.
Attracting Native Birds
Don’t worry; opting for suet and thistle seeds doesn’t mean sacrificing the variety of birds that visit your feeder. In fact, these options are still highly attractive to many native bird species, ensuring that your bird-watching experience remains as enjoyable as ever.
What If I want To Keep Using My Normal Feed?
If you really want to use up the bird seed you have or keep your options open; we highly recommend keeping these types of feeders and seed AT LEAST 20 FT away from your house.
Conclusion
So, before you refill your bird feeder with the same old seed mix, consider the unintended consequences it might bring. By making a simple switch to suet and thistle seeds, you can keep unwanted pests at bay and enjoy a more harmonious relationship with your feathered friends.
