Holiday Shopping for Backyard Birdwatchers

So, you have a backyard birdwatcher on your holiday shopping list and you're wondering what to get for him or her, or you're trying to figure out what to put on your own wish list. What's the latest in holiday treasures for birdwatchers?

The number one thing on my list is a birdbath with a de-icer already installed. I don't have one, which means that on icy days I need to keep re-filling the birdbath with unfrozen water. Birds need open, unfrozen water during the winter every bit as much as they do during the summer. I've identified the model I want: one that attaches to the deck railing so it will be easy to fill and maintain, and it will be close to the outdoor power outlet. Santa, are you listening?

How about the latest in hummingbird feeders? One of the biggest problems with feeding hummingbirds is that they attract ants. Duncraft has just started selling something called the "Mad Ants" hummingbird feeder, which they guarantee will be ant free. Check it out at http://www.duncraft.com . Santa, I could use two.

Here in Portland, the first thing I do each morning is go outside and tend to my feeders. Something to keep my feet warm and dry during the process would be just the ticket - like some of those new garden clogs I've seen in gardening stores or magazines. I'll bet the birder in your household would appreciate them as well. Look for clogs that are rubberized outside, to prevent slips on wet wooden decks or stairs.

Looking for something a little more elaborate? How about a beautiful new pedestal bird bath? They look lovely in a garden, and you can buy them with heaters already installed if you live in one of the cooler parts of the country.

Do you have someone on your shopping list who is house-bound due to illness or disability? How about a feeder that can either hang outside of or attach to a window so they can see the birds in close? Don't forget to include a bag of birdseed.

How about a gift basket for the birder in your life? Include a bag of premium birdseed, a new feeder, a couple of cakes of suet and perhaps a birdy tree ornament. Add a bow and you've got instant delight.

On a budget? Make your own holiday birdseed mix. Buy a large bag of mixed seed and add to it some chopped, dried cranberries. Fill cellophane bags and tie with colored ribbon and you've got lovely, inexpensive gifts to have on hand in case someone drops by over the holidays. Another budget-minded gift is a hand-made birdhouse or feeder. On-line birding supply vendors or stores in your area will have books with plans and suggestions.

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