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Pests and Predators

© Terrie Murray

Bird feeders invite pests of their own, including squirrels and other rodents, raccoons, and birds that you'd just as soon stayed away, like those pesky House Sparrows and Starlings. The best deterrent to squirrels and other animals is to mount the feeders on a post with an under-the-feeder domed squirrel baffle. Hanging feeders can be covered with squirrel baffles as well, and the one I've had in my yard for the past year has worked remarkably well. When picking out your feeder, choose one with small perches that larger birds like jays and crows will leave alone. Platform feeders look nice and allow easy viewing of the birds, but they also invite animals and pest birds.

Bird baths are the single most attractive element in your yard, according to the birds, but they do have their own set of problems. Small birds can drown in more than three inches of water, so adjust your water level accordingly. The bath should be hosed out and fresh water added daily, and it should be washed with hot, soapy water at least once a week. If you use an electrical bath warmer in the winter, make sure it is UL listed and connect it to a properly grounded outdoor socket. Don't use glycerin or antifreeze to thaw the bird bath, or you'll kill the birds.

By attracting wild birds and animals to our yards we must accept some responsibility for their health and safety. We cannot prevent all problems, but we can help reduce, and avoid contributing to, the dangers that exist in our own back yards.