Choosing the right bird feeder can significantly enhance your birdwatching experience. Platform feeders, especially those with roofs, offer several advantages, making them a popular choice among bird enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide explores the benefits, considerations, and best practices for using platform feeders with roofs.
What are Platform Bird Feeders with Roofs?
Platform feeders, as the name suggests, provide a flat, open platform for birds to feed. Unlike tube feeders or hopper feeders, they don't restrict access, allowing various bird species to comfortably access the food. The addition of a roof offers crucial protection from the elements, keeping the seeds dry and preventing them from spoiling quickly. This design is particularly beneficial in areas with harsh weather conditions or frequent rainfall.
Why Choose a Platform Feeder with a Roof?
Several key benefits make roofed platform feeders a smart choice:
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Accessibility for Diverse Bird Species: Their open design accommodates birds of all sizes and feeding styles, attracting a wider variety of feathered friends. Larger birds, like doves and jays, which might struggle with smaller feeder openings, can easily access the food.
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Protection from the Elements: The roof shields the seeds from rain, snow, and excessive sunlight, preventing spoilage and preserving the food's quality for longer. This is particularly important for softer seeds that can quickly become moldy or rot in damp conditions.
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Easy to Fill and Clean: The open design makes refilling and cleaning the feeder a simple and straightforward process. You can quickly assess the food level and easily remove any debris or spoiled seeds.
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Reduced Waste: Because the food isn't enclosed, birds can more readily access the seeds and less food is wasted compared to some other feeder types.
What Types of Birdseed are Best for Platform Feeders?
The best birdseed for platform feeders depends on the birds you wish to attract. However, some popular choices include:
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Sunflower Seeds: A favorite amongst many birds, sunflower seeds are high in energy and readily consumed.
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Cracked Corn: Attracts ground-feeding birds, such as doves and juncos.
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Milo: A hardy grain that resists spoilage and attracts a range of birds.
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White-Proso Millet: A smaller seed, ideal for smaller birds like sparrows and finches.
Avoid using small seeds like nyjer (thistle) in a platform feeder, as they can easily be blown away or scattered by the wind.
How to Choose the Right Platform Feeder with a Roof?
Several factors to consider when selecting a platform feeder with a roof include:
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Size: Consider the size of the birds you want to attract and the amount of space you have available. Larger platforms can accommodate more birds and more food.
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Material: Durable materials like metal or high-quality plastic are ideal. Look for feeders resistant to rust, warping, and fading.
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Weight: A heavier feeder is less likely to be blown away by strong winds.
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Mounting Options: Choose a feeder with mounting options suitable for your location, whether it's hanging from a tree branch or mounted on a post.
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Drainage: A well-designed roof should help prevent water from accumulating on the platform.
How Often Should I Clean My Platform Bird Feeder?
Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the spread of disease among the birds. Aim to clean your platform feeder at least once a month, or more frequently during warm, humid weather. Wash the feeder thoroughly with warm soapy water, rinse well, and allow it to dry completely before refilling.
What if Birds are Being Aggressive at My Feeder?
Aggression at feeders is common, especially during periods of food scarcity. Consider adding multiple feeders to reduce competition. You can also try placing the feeders in different locations to spread out the birds.
What kind of birds are attracted to platform feeders?
A wide variety of birds are attracted to platform feeders. Larger birds like doves and jays are particularly fond of them, as are ground feeders like juncos and sparrows. Even smaller birds will often utilize platform feeders, especially if other food sources are scarce.
How do I keep squirrels from getting into my platform feeder?
Squirrels are notorious for raiding bird feeders. Choosing a feeder with a squirrel-resistant design, such as one with a baffle or protective cage, can help deter them. You can also try strategically positioning the feeder to make it more difficult for squirrels to access.
By carefully selecting and maintaining a platform bird feeder with a roof, you can create a welcoming and safe environment for a variety of birds, enhancing your backyard birdwatching enjoyment. Remember to always prioritize the birds' well-being by providing clean food and a safe feeding environment.
