Volume VI, Issue XI THE OGDEN VALLEY NEWS Page 19 September 15, 2002 UTAH BIRDS cont. from page 18 Scientific studies indicate definite seed preferences among certain species. Grosbeaks, finches, sparrows, jays, chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, and crossbills all love sunflower seeds, particularly the small black oil-type and gray-striped seeds. White proso millet is another favorite. Small-seed eaters, such as juncos, sparrows, towhees and black-headed cowbirds, are especially fond of white millet. Niger seed, sometimes referred to as thistle, is an imported, small black seed relished by goldfinches, pine siskins, house finches, and redpolls. Because niger seed is relatively expensive, it is most economically offered to these small birds at hanging tube feeders. Commercial seed mixes are sold by the pound at grocery stores, garden centers, and feed stores; however, they often contain several kinds of seeds and cereal grains sometimes ignored by birds. Common but unattractive ingredients in some mixes include milo, buckwheat, flax, rape, sorghum, wheat, oats, and rice. For this reason, purchasing sunflower and white proso millet seeds separately is most economical. These seeds can be obtained in bulk at feed stores and through sales sponsored annually by local Audubon chapters. Suet, another mainstay at most feeding stations, provides a source of fat during winter months when natural foods are limited, and energy is important. A favorite of woodpeckers, nuthatches and creepers, suet can be offered year-round, but caution should be used during warm summer months when it can spoil. Dry, hard, white beef suet is best, and usually available at meat and butcher counters in grocery stores. In addition, hardened bacon grease is popular among birds as a source of needed fat and animal protein. Nuts provide another source of protein and minerals, and help round out nutritional offerings. Peanuts, pecans, walnuts, and other native and exotic nuts are most attractive when shells are cracked or opened and meats chopped. Most birds cannot resist peanut butter. When mixed with other foods, it provides a less expensive meal than nuts. In the winter when protein and fat are relatively scarce, peanut butter offers a valuable supplement of both. Popular home recipes for meal-in- Mt. Valley Cloggers        one “bird cakes” include seeds, nuts, peanut butter, crumbs and raisins mixed with rendered or melted suet. The resulting cake contains foods that appeal to a variety of birds. Bread and cracker crumbs, crusts and donuts are popular treats, and enhance menu variety. White bread crumbs attract the attention of birds at initial feeder offerings, and again each fall when winter feeding is renewed. Because baked goods attract starlings and house sparrows, they should be limited or excluded from the menu when attempting to control the presence of these two nonnative and domineering species. Fruits are a specialty item at feeders, often attracting birds that reject other food offerings. Waxwings, robins, and mocking birds may visit a feeding station if fruit or berries are presented. Fresh or dried apples, blueberries, cherries, cranberries, currants, dates, grapes, oranges, and raisin are popular fruits. Water is Basic to Survival Water for drinking and bathing is another basic year-round requirement of birds. A reliable, clean, fresh supply of water is as essential as food and cover. Water may even draw birds that are reluctant to visit feeders, particularly in arid Utah. Birdbaths, inverted trash can lids, ceramic saucers, and other shallow basins can be used to hold water. Water basins for songbirds should have gently sloping sides, rough-textured surfaces for secure footing, and average depths no greater than 1½ inches. Birds appreciate protective cover near drinking and bathing sites, but if cats prowl the area, water basins should be in the open. Special effort should be taken during winter to ensure an unfrozen source of water. Clean feathers are imperative for insulation against cold air. Water can be changed frequently, or small outdoor immersion heaters, available at garden centers and hardware stores, can be used to keep water from freezing. Grit Aids Digestion Birds ingest pebbles and other small particles as “grit” to aid in the grinding and digestion of foods. Grit also provides calcium and other minerals. Natural grit can be supplement- New Classes starting soon Specialize in Power Tap All Levels Ages 5 - Adult Performances Available Located in the Valley First Lesson FREE !! (801) 420-5141 or (801) 876-3349 ed at feeding stations with fine gravel, sand, ground eggshell, charcoal bits, and ashes, and small pieces of oyster shell. Whether mixed with suet and other foods, or offered separately, the addition of grit at feeding stations is particularly valuable when snow covers natural sources. fall, if it is accessible. Spring and fall migration periods, and summer months are also good times to offer fruit at feeding stations. Orioles, tanagers, thrushes, bluebirds, warblers, vireos, and thrashers are among the migrants and summer resident that may be attracted by fruit. Year-round Feeding Invites Species Variety Vegetation is a Natural Inducement Because composition, distribution, and activity of Utah bird populations change with the season, a year-round program attracts a continuing variety of species. A very different post-winter clientele begins to appear as migrating spring and summer birds arrive, and regular winter visitors depart. Utah’s summer species can be attracted with special foods. Hummingbirds, for example, love sugar water. Commercial solutions are available, or one part sugar mixed with four parts boiled water provides an easy-to-prepare treat for these active little visitors. Because the sweet solution supplies quick energy but no protein, it is wise to place a hummingbird feeder near some natural food source where protein and other nutrients can be obtained. Honey should not be used as a sugar substitute because it can promote a harmful fungal growth on the hummingbird’s beak. Feeders should be washed every three days. Also be on the lookout for northern orioles, kinglets, grosbeaks, warblers, and western tanagers at hummingbird feeders. They, too, are fond of sweet liquid, and may grace yards with their colorful beauty in spring, summer and Birds naturally seek vegetation for food and shelter. Landscaping with a variety of plants helps supply yearround food to many species. Trees, shrubs, vines, and flowers that produce foods, such as seeds, nuts, acorns, catkins, fruits, berries, and nectar are particularly attractive to birds, and can be combined with yard beautification to encourage bird activity. Yard foliage can also provide protective cover and nesting sites. A diversity of plant forms, sizes and densities creates the best cover arrangement for birds, and accommodates a wide range of needs and habits. Soil conditions, moisture and climate need to be considered when selecting plants for specific areas. Sources of information and advice about landscaping for wildlife include the National Wildlife Federation’s Backyard Habitat program, and the Utah State University Extension Service. Note: This information was provided by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources in a booklet titled “Feeding Utah’s Birds.” For more information, you can contact the Division of Wildlife Resources at their Salt Lake office at (801) 538-4700. 801-745-4000 2555 WOLF CREEK DR. EDEN STORE HOURS: MON. - SAT. 7 AM - 10 PM SUNDAY 7 AM - 9 PM 2 litre Shasta Sodas All flavors 39c Limit 2 per coupon with coupon Expires 9/30/02 Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream 1/2 gal. 2 for $5.00 with coupon Limit 2 per coupon Expires 9/30/02 Rogers Large AA Eggs 49c @ dozen with coupon Limit 2 per coupon Expires 9/30/02 Save $200 on any Large 16 - inch Fresh Deli Pizza Limit 2 per coupon Expires 9/30/02