Attracting birds to our yards has been a favorite of homeowners for years. Placing food and watering stations for them in strategic places ensures that we will have a constant supply of our feathered friends. But mounting places for them to eat and perch is only as sturdy as the bird feeder pole you use. Making the wrong selection can result in causing them to go elsewhere.
So why go to the trouble to lure them in? With humans taking over more and more of their natural habitat it is a small way that we can give some of that back to them. But the main reason for bringing them closer is to be able to observe them as they are intended to be. And giving them food is a small way of showing how much we care about them.
If you go to the trouble of setting up a place for them to eat then mounting it correctly is equally as important. If a bird feeder pole is too small it will obviously not be able to adequately support the weight and structure that it is holding. Once birds experience a shaky foundation they will be turned away. It is always best to spring for a solidly built base and insure it is solidly placed in the ground if your pole is of the type to do so.
Make sure that the one you choose is solidly built. Metal is a good choice, as it will deliver many years of use. Maintaining it is important so that it doesn't rust. They are also more difficult for a squirrel to traverse if keeping them at bay is an important point for you.
Wood is another favorite, but will eventually rot which is why it is important to get one made from a rot resistant wood if you want to stay natural. Termites can also infest it quickly. Plus, it can split and develop splinters, which can be unsightly. For some people the best defense here is to select treated wood, sand it well, and paint it.
But placement of your bird feeder pole is also just as important as its construction. You don't want to place it too close to trees as this gives easy access for squirrels to plunder the wild bird seed you place out for the wild birds. On the other hand, you want it close enough so that you can reap the benefits of watching the birds from a deck or patio while sitting on your outdoor garden bench.
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