Bird feeders are typically placed in elevated positions to accommodate flying birds. However, if you want to attract ground-feeding birds, there are ways to encourage them. Providing food for these birds is crucial, especially during times of temporary food shortages, which can be fatal. This is particularly important during the breeding season when fledglings need sufficient food for their survival and the continuation of the species.
Can You Put a Bird Feeder on the Ground?
While it may seem counterproductive to place a bird feeder on the ground, it is possible to do so temporarily for maintenance purposes. However, if you have ground-feeding birds in your vicinity, it is advisable to provide them with food as well. Placing a bird feeder on the ground exposes the birds to predators and rodents that may eat them or consume the seeds intended for the birds. To ensure the safety of ground-feeding birds, it is best to position bird feeders high in the air, away from potential threats. However, there are measures you can take to protect ground-feeding birds while still providing them with food.
How to Protect Your Ground Feeding Birds from Predators and Rodents
One of the challenges of feeding ground-feeding birds is keeping other animals, such as squirrels and pigeons, away from the food. To address this issue, you can use squirrel-proof bird feeders or create a ground feeding haven that deters larger birds and animals. These specially designed feeders help keep predators like cats, owls, and weasels away from the birds. Placing the feeders away from trees, vegetation, and fences also helps prevent predators from reaching the birds. Additionally, it is important to use high-quality bird food to avoid attracting pests and unwanted weeds to your garden.
What Am I Supposed to Feed Ground Feeding Birds?
Most bird foods can be used to feed ground-feeding birds. However, it is recommended to avoid seeds that are still covered in husks, as they can hinder the growth of other plants and promote bacterial growth. Using bird tables and feeding stations with feeding trays can help prevent these issues. It is also important to regularly shuffle the ground feeders to prevent the spread of disease and bacteria.
What are Some of the Birds that Feed on the Ground?
While many birds may explore food on the ground, some species are more inclined to feed on the ground than others. These include grouse, quail, roadrunners, anis, thrashers, ovenbirds, waterthrushes, starlings, mynas, grackles, doves, pigeons, sparrows, towhees, juncos, grosbeaks, cardinals, buntings, larks, pipits, wagtails, robins, bluebirds, thrushes, parrots, and northern flickers. Adding a low feeder to your backyard buffet can attract these ground-feeding birds.
Types of Ground Feeders
The design of ground bird feeders is not crucial, as birds are not particular about how the food is presented. Food can be scattered on bare ground, under bushes, on a patio table, or on a deck. Concrete pads or shallow dishes can also be used to contain the seeds. Additionally, sunflower heads can be placed on the ground for birds to gather the seeds. The options for ground bird feeders are diverse, and any feeder that is a few inches off the ground can be suitable for ground-feeding birds.
Some Helpful Ground Bird Feeder Tips
To make the most of a ground feeding station, consider placing a wire cage on top to protect the food from larger birds and predators. It is also important to provide just enough food for each day’s feeding to prevent the accumulation of uneaten food that may attract pests. Rotating the feeding areas can help maintain the health of the turf and grass below. These tips can help ensure the success of your ground bird feeders.
Conclusion
Ground bird feeders may require extra protection, but they are worth it for the opportunity to observe ground-feeding birds enjoying their meals. Having a variety of birds around your home is a bird watcher’s dream, and ground feeders can attract more birds to your yard. Adding or making a ground feeder is a great way to enhance your bird-watching experience.