Backyard Bird Life: April
They’re on the way – hummingbirds and orioles will be in your backyard within the next few weeks. Are you ready for them? Check out the Hummingbird tracker below to see where the latest sightings are. In the meantime, we’ve collected some facts, figures, tips and tricks to help you attract these fascinating flyers to your feeders.
1. Hummers have amazing memories
Even though they’re small, these birds are quite bright. They remember all the flowers and feeders they visit. In fact, a hummingbird's brain is the largest proportionally – 4.2% -- of any wild bird. So have that nectar ready and they’ll remember you!
2. More than 350 hummingbird species
Many of these species make their way to upstate New York. The most common in our area is the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird. This year, why not see how many different types you can identify.
3. Some hummers build nests near hawks
Hawks think hummingbirds are too small for a meal. So, nesting near hawks keeps other predators (squirrels, jays, etc.) at a safe distance!
4. Just like humans, hummingbirds love sugar
Because they’re so active, hummers can eat more than twice their body weight every day. And glucose is their fav!
5. Clean hummingbird feeders often
Like all bird feeders, regular cleaning is required. For hummingbird feeders, it’s especially important because sugary nectar can get sticky and messy, attracting contaminants. Once a week cleaning with a vinegar-water solution is a good schedule.
6. 50 times per second!
That’s how fast hummers beat their wings. More than a quarter of their body weight is in the pectoral muscles, which is why they hover and move with such precision.
Unique design creates an easy-to-use hummingbird feeder combined with a classic look that will be a favorite for both you and the hummingbirds! #066591
Wide-mouth bottle for easy filling and cleaning. Built-in bee guards. Built-in ant moat creates a barrier against ants. 16 oz. capacity. #4440715
Oriole Jelly Jar Feeder
Inverted jelly jar, keeps jelly fresh. Interchangeable with most standard jelly jars. Built-in stirrer allows the perfect amount of jelly to be dispensed into the tray. #1193283
Oriole Fruit Nectar Buffet Feeder
Clear, shatter-proof reservoir makes it easy to monitor nectar levels and unscrews easily from the feeder base for quick cleaning and filling. #066605
More Birds® Bird Health+™ Hummingbird Nectar Powder
Simulates natural nectar found in flowers that hummingbirds typically feed from in nature. Makes 40 fl. oz. Just add water. Available in red #009555 or clear #009561
Perky-Pet® Oriole Nectar
Ready-to-use. No mixing required. Made with 100% sucrose, natural citrus flavor.
16 oz. #684058
1 liter #6758965
Oriole Nectar
Energy-packed nectar. Simulates the nectar from flowers. Natural choice for attracting colorful orioles to your feeder. Natural orange color! #009558
More Birds® Bird Health+™ Hummingbird Nectar
Ready-to-use formula requires no mixing. All-natural recipe simulates the nectar found in flowers. Red #009552 or Clear #009560
Eastern bluebirds tend to return to the same breeding territory year after year. Some people believe they’re a sign of joy and hope. Others claim that if you see a bluebird, good news is on its way.
Regardless of symbolism, bluebirds are brightly colored and fun to watch at a feeder or birdhouse. If you want to attract them, mealworms are their favorite food, which you can get at CountryMax, of course. We also have bird houses specially designed for these popular birds.
CountryMax Backyard Seeds
Bluebird House
Hand made in Western New York, our bestselling bluebird house is insect and rot resistant.
One of the best ways to keep nesting birds coming back to your feeders is to provide a safe nesting place nearby.
Here are some tips:
Problem:
Birds won’t choose to nest in a spot that’s easily accessed by predators. It’s a good idea to install your birdhouse on a metal pole, which will prevent some predators from accessing it.
Solution:
Choose a location where you can secure the nest box well so that it doesn’t move around too much. You don’t want to risk a big gust of wind startling your nesting birds away permanently.
Problem:
Birds avoid areas that get a lot of human, pet, even bird traffic! Birds are territorial and unwanted visitors showing up to eat will drive nesting birds away.
Solution: Typically, you’ll want to have at least 25 ft (7.5 m) between birdhouses, but this distance can vary greatly depending on each species.
Problem:
You need access for cleaning and maintenance. Despite that fact that you want to minimize traffic around the bird house, you can’t just set it and forget it.
Solution:
Clear a path to your birdhouse for easy access. And keep an eye on it. Make sure you have a clear line of sight from your preferred viewing area.
Another Birdhouse Option:
Nature’s Way® Bluebird House with Viewing Window
Insect and rot resistant premium cedar. Features a viewing window allowing you to safely view the birds without disturbing them. #066024
We’re giving you a new reason to love Tuesdays:
Buy two, get one free on wild bird seed! Every week is a new, money-saving deal that not only gets you more seed for your feeders, but also more Max Rewards points.
In-store sales. Max Rewards members only.
No rainchecks. Buy two at regular price, get free bag of same size and SKU.