Tube Bird Feeders Selection GuideWhen you think of bird feeders, the image that immediately comes to
mind is that of a classic tube bird feeder. These long cylindrical feeders
are generally used to attract small woodland birds such as woodpeckers,
titmice, finches, and chickadees. A quality tube bird feeder will have a
few small perches on it, small enough to attract the aforementioned
birds, and keep larger birds such as cardinals and bluejays at bay.
The holes in a tube feeder are big enough for a sunflower seed to fit
through, and it's these larger openings that distinguish the standard
tube feeder from thistle tube feeders.
Tube bird feeders are
a great way to offer a variety of birds a tasty birdseed treat
year-round. The tube itself is designed to let birds eat from openings
in the bottom of the tube, thus ensuring that seed towards the top will
stay dry and fresh. What kind of seed you put in the tube feeder will
determine what kinds of birds you attract. Some of our favorite tube
feeders have multiple, distinct tubes that can each be filled with a
different seed, ensuring that a variety of birds will be attracted to
your backyard. These are also great because they can hold an enormous
amount of seed, which means fewer trips out to clean and refill it.
Generally speaking, the bigger the tube feeder, the better!
Tube
bird feeders are generally made of clear, uv-resistant plastics, but
more and more manufacturers are providing a 'green' alternative.
Environmentally friendly bird feeders made of recycled plastic or glass
are safer for the birds, and provide you with a little more peace of
mind. Standard plastic feeders are cheaper, but not as durable as the
more expensive glass and metal feeders.
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Tips on Buying a Tube Bird Feeder- Clean
your feeder regularly in the spring and summer, particularly after a
rainstorm. Mold can develop quickly on wet seeds
- Try purchasing a squirrel baffle if you plan on hanging your tube feeder from a shepherd's hook
- If you're after finches, doves, pine siskins, or other thistle eating
birds, be sure to check out our great selection of thistle feeders
- Did we mention cleaning your tube bird feeder regularly? Well, we're doing it again because
it's important. It helps prevent the spread of diseases that can
quickly spread among bird species
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