Bird Feeders and Their Impact: A Birder’s Guide to Science-Based Feeding Practices

I grew up in a city so tough that only the most resilient birds—mostly sparrows and crows—managed to survive. My childhood version of bird feeding? Tossing leftover rice and bread scraps onto the ground, hoping they’d find a taker. No fancy feeders, no carefully chosen seeds—just an old-school way of giving birds a snack.

Then life changed. I moved—first to Europe, then from a flat to a house with a garden—and suddenly, I was surrounded by birds I had never seen before. Feeding them felt like the natural next step. I started with store-bought bird food, followed my neighbors’ lead, and soon my garden became a hotspot for feathered visitors. I was thrilled. But once the excitement wore off, I started to wonder: Was I actually helping these birds, or was I interfering with their natural instincts?

Then came the moment that stopped me in my tracks—a goldfinch at my feeder with a strange wart-like lump on its face. A quick search later, I learned it was avian pox, a contagious disease. Had I unknowingly turned my bird feeder into a breeding ground for infection?

That realization sent me down a research spiral. Do bird feeders actually benefit birds in the long run, or do they make them dependent? Can they spread disease? And, of course, the eternal struggleShould we even be feeding birds at all?

If you’ve ever asked yourself these questions, you’re in the right place. This article breaks down everything you need to know about feeding birds responsibly—from choosing the best bird food to understanding the impact feeders have on wildlife and ecosystems. Whether you’re a backyard birdwatcher or just starting out, you’ll find plenty of useful insights here. Let’s dive in.

The Impact of Bird Feeding on Ecosystems, Other Wildlife, and Human Health

Do bird feeders benefit birds in the long term, across multiple generations, or do they disrupt natural behaviors?

Bird feeders provide short-term benefits like increased survival during food shortages, but their long-term effects on bird populations vary by species and environment. Some research suggests that feeders can influence evolutionary traits, disrupt natural selection, and even lead to maladaptive dependencies.

Long-term benefits:

• higher reproductive success – well-fed birds tend to lay more eggs and raise healthier chicks. studies on black-capped chickadees show that feeder access correlates with larger clutch sizes and better chick survival.
• Improved overwinter survival – during extreme weather, feeders reduce starvation risk.
• Urban adaptation – some species have evolved to thrive in human-altered landscapes by utilizing feeders.

Potential negative effects:

• Altered migration patterns – birds like European blackcaps (Sylvia atricapilla) now overwinter in Britain rather than migrating to Spain, potentially due to abundant feeders.
• unnatural selection pressures – a study on great tits (Parus major) found that birds with longer beaks had an advantage at uk feeders, leading to genetic changes in the population.
• competitive imbalances – dominant species may monopolize feeders, reducing diversity and pushing out weaker competitors.

[4][5].

Does feeding birds discourage them from foraging for natural foods?

Birds at feeders do not completely abandon natural foraging, but their behavior can change depending on feeder availability, competition, and environmental conditions.

Why birds still forage naturally:

• Dietary variety – most birds prefer a diverse diet, supplementing seeds with insects, berries, or nectar.
• Seasonal adaptation – in summer, feeder visits decrease as natural food sources become abundant.
• Instinctual foraging behavior – species like chickadees store food even when feeders are present.

How feeders can reduce foraging effort:

• Urban birds may become dependent – studies show that in highly urbanized areas, birds spend less time foraging naturally because feeders provide a stable resource.
• Reduced food exploration – birds with constant feeder access may become less skilled at locating hidden or seasonal food sources.
• Higher competition at feeders – some species, like house sparrows, dominate feeders and limit access for others, indirectly discouraging natural foraging.

[6][7].

If aggressive birds dominate feeders, why don’t other birds simply return to natural foraging?

While it seems logical that birds excluded from feeders would just return to natural foraging, studies show this often doesn’t happen efficiently due to several factors.

• Time wasted in feeder competition – subordinate birds often linger near feeders, making repeated attempts to access food instead of foraging elsewhere.
• Reduced foraging skills – birds raised in areas with year-round feeders may become less skilled at finding wild food, making it harder to adapt when feeders are unavailable.
• Altered risk-taking behaviors – some birds visit feeders at unsafe times (e.g., early morning when predators are active) rather than switching to safer natural foraging.
• Long-term habitat shifts – if dominant species like house sparrows consistently push out native birds, those species may decline locally rather than simply relocate.

thus, rather than encouraging natural foraging, feeder dominance can disrupt normal feeding patterns, increase stress, and contribute to population imbalances

[8][9].

Why do blackbirds and Eurasian jays appear in gardens earlier in the morning than smaller birds like great tits and nuthatches?

• Dominance hierarchy & feeding priority – Larger, more dominant birds like blackbirds (Turdus merula) and Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) often feed first, taking advantage of food sources before smaller, subordinate birds arrive.
• Lower predation risk at dawn – Larger birds are less vulnerable to early-morning predators like sparrowhawks (Accipiter nisus), allowing them to feed confidently in low light.
• Energy needs & foraging strategy – Corvids (jays) and thrushes (blackbirds) require higher energy intake and often feed in fewer, larger meals, while smaller birds like great tits (Parus major) and nuthatches (Sitta europaea) forage throughout the day in multiple short feeding sessions.
• Light sensitivity & vision adaptation – Larger birds can navigate low-light conditions better, while small songbirds rely on brighter daylight for foraging efficiency.

[10][11].

What are the most common diseases that can spread among birds through bird feeders?

• Salmonellosis – Caused by Salmonella bacteria, leading to diarrhea, weakness, and high mortality. Spread through contaminated seed and droppings.
• Trichomoniasis – A parasitic infection affecting finches and pigeons, causing throat lesions that prevent feeding. Common in Europe and North America.
• Avian pox – A viral disease causing wart-like growths on the skin, spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces.
• Mycoplasmosis – A bacterial infection primarily affecting house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus), causing swollen eyes and breathing difficulties.
• Aspergillosis – A fungal infection from moldy seeds or damp feeders, leading to respiratory distress.

[12][13].

How can bird feeders in the garden affect human health and spread disease?

Bird feeders in gardens can impact human health and facilitate disease transmission in several ways.

• Disease transmission – Feeders can harbor zoonotic diseases like Salmonella, Chlamydia psittaci (psittacosis), and Histoplasmosis. Humans can contract these illnesses through direct contact with contaminated feeders or inhaling spores from bird droppings.
• High bird density – Feeders attract large numbers of birds, increasing disease spread among avian populations. Infected birds can indirectly transmit pathogens to humans, particularly through domestic pets that interact with sick or dead birds.
• Health risks – Poorly maintained feeders can expose humans to Mycoplasma gallisepticum (conjunctivitis in birds), leading to eye infections in people who handle infected surfaces or birds.
• Mitigation strategies – Regularly cleaning feeders with a 1:9 bleach solution, avoiding hand contact with droppings, and placing feeders away from high-traffic areas can reduce these risks while still benefiting bird populations.

[14][15][16][17][18][19]. 

Are there any recorded ecological disasters linked to bird feeders?

No, there are no recorded ecological disasters directly caused by bird feeders.

However, feeder-related disease outbreaks have led to significant population declines in certain bird species.

• House finch conjunctivitis outbreak (1990s, North America) – Mycoplasma gallisepticum spread through feeders, causing a severe decline in house finch populations across the U.S. and Canada.
• Trichomoniasis epidemic (2005–2015, Europe) – A mass die-off of greenfinches (Chloris chloris) and chaffinches (Fringilla coelebs) occurred due to Trichomonas gallinae, heavily linked to bird feeders.

[20][21].

What are the most common diseases that can spread among birds through bird feeders?

• Salmonellosis – Caused by Salmonella bacteria, leading to diarrhea, weakness, and high mortality. Spread through contaminated seed and droppings.
• Trichomoniasis – A parasitic infection affecting finches and pigeons, causing throat lesions that prevent feeding. Common in Europe and North America.
• Avian pox – A viral disease causing wart-like growths on the skin, spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces.
• Mycoplasmosis – A bacterial infection primarily affecting house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus), causing swollen eyes and breathing difficulties.
• Aspergillosis – A fungal infection from moldy seeds or damp feeders, leading to respiratory distress.

[22][23].

 
Do birds unintentionally spread seeds by throwing them out of feeders, through droppings, or via the wind? What environmental effects does this have?

• Seed dispersal from droppings – Birds eat berries and fruits, dispersing seeds far from parent plants, aiding reforestation and plant diversity.
• Accidental seed spillage – Birds often drop seeds while eating, leading to local plant growth around feeders.
• Wind & feather transport – Seeds can stick to feathers or beak surfaces and get carried to new locations.

Environmental effects:

• Positive: Supports native plant regeneration, aids in rewilding degraded land, and fosters biodiversity.
• Negative: Can spread invasive plants if birdseed contains non-native or aggressive species (e.g., Russian thistle, black mustard).

[24][25].

The Psychology and Ethics of Bird Feeding

Why do people enjoy feeding birds?

People feed birds for a variety of reasons, ranging from personal enjoyment to ecological concerns. Some of the most common motivations include:
Connection with nature – Watching birds up close provides a sense of tranquility and a deeper appreciation for wildlife, especially in urban areas.
Helping birds survive – Many people feel a sense of responsibility, especially during winter when food is scarce. Studies show that supplemental feeding improves winter survival rates for species like chickadees and cardinals.
Educational value – Feeding birds allows people, particularly children, to observe different species, behaviors, and seasonal patterns.
Mental health benefits – Research suggests that watching birds can reduce stress and improve mood, making it a form of nature therapy.
However, some studies question whether the long-term effects of bird feeding are entirely beneficial, as it can alter bird behavior and local ecosystems.
[26][27]

Are humans responsible for providing food and water to birds?

Humans are not inherently responsible for feeding birds, as birds have evolved to find food independently. However, human activities—deforestation, urbanization, and climate change—have disrupted natural habitats, reducing food availability in some areas.

Arguments for responsibility:

• Habitat destruction by humans has reduced native food sources, making artificial feeding more necessary in some cases.
• Harsh urban environments create food deserts for birds, where feeders may help sustain populations.
• Climate change disruptions (e.g., unpredictable winters, and droughts) have made natural food availability less reliable.

Arguments against dependence on humans:

• Artificial feeding can alter natural behaviors, reducing birds’ ability to forage effectively.
• Over-reliance on humans may cause population imbalances, favoring common feeder species over rarer birds.
• Disease risks increase when birds congregate at feeding stations.

A more balanced approach is habitat restoration—planting native plants, providing clean water sources, and reducing pesticide use—rather than relying solely on feeders.

[28][29].

In which countries is feeding birds illegal, and where is it encouraged?

Illegal or restricted:

• Australia – Discouraged due to disease risks and disruption of natural foraging.
• Sweden – Bans feeding in public areas to avoid attracting pests.
• Singapore – Fines imposed for feeding pigeons due to overpopulation issues.

Encouraged or common practice:

• United States, Canada, UK – Actively encouraged, with millions participating in backyard bird feeding.
• India – Culturally significant, with many people feeding pigeons and crows.

[30].

Why is feeding birds illegal in Australia while it’s allowed in other countries?

Feeding birds is illegal in many parts of Australia due to its unique ecosystem, strict biosecurity laws, and concerns over wildlife health. Unlike in colder regions where feeding helps birds survive harsh winters, Australia’s mild climate and abundant natural food make artificial feeding unnecessary and often harmful.

Key reasons for the ban:

• Protecting native wildlife – Artificial feeding encourages the overpopulation of aggressive species like rainbow lorikeets and cockatoos, which disrupt native ecosystems.
• Preventing disease transmission – Feeders spread diseases like psittacine beak and feather disease, which is a major threat to Australia’s parrots.
• Biosecurity and invasive species control – Feeding attracts non-native species like Indian mynas, which compete with native birds for nesting sites.
• No seasonal food shortages – Unlike in North America and Europe, food is available year-round, making feeding unnecessary and potentially disruptive.

[31][32].

Squirrels vs. birds: why do people prefer feeding birds over squirrels?

Squirrels are intelligent, adaptable, and entertaining, yet many people prefer feeding birds over squirrels. The main reasons include:

• Perceived ecological role – Birds are often seen as beneficial pollinators, insect controllers, and seed dispersers, whereas squirrels are sometimes viewed as garden pests.
• Feeder damage – Squirrels can chew through feeders, steal food, and drive away birds, frustrating bird enthusiasts.
• Behavioral differences – While birds flutter gracefully, squirrels can be aggressive and territorial, dominating feeders.
• Cultural bias – Many cultures associate birds with peace and beauty, while squirrels are often linked to mischief and nuisance.

Despite this, squirrels play a vital role in ecosystems, helping with seed dispersal and tree regeneration. Some people even set up dedicated squirrel feeders to appreciate them without disrupting bird feeding.

[33][34].

What are the most effective ways to deter squirrels from bird feeders?

Squirrels are highly intelligent and persistent, making them difficult to keep away from feeders. However, some strategies can help:

• Squirrel-proof feeders – use feeders with weight-activated perches that close when heavier animals (like squirrels) try to access food.
• Baffles and dome guards – install metal baffles above or below feeders to make climbing difficult.
• Distance and height placement – hang feeders at least 10 feet from trees and 5 feet off the ground, as squirrels can jump impressively far.
• Spicy birdseed – birds are unaffected by capsaicin, the compound that makes chili peppers hot, but squirrels avoid it.
• Dedicated squirrel feeders – offering squirrel-friendly food (corn, nuts) away from bird feeders can reduce competition.
• Grease or PVC pipe barriers – applying a non-toxic, slippery substance to poles can prevent squirrels from climbing.

These methods don’t harm squirrels but make it less rewarding for them to raid bird feeders.

Best Practices for Feeding and Providing Water to Birds

Where should bird feeders be placed?

Proper placement of bird feeders is essential to attract birds, ensure their safety, and prevent issues like predator attacks and disease spread. The ideal location should balance visibility, accessibility, and protection while minimizing risks.

safe distance from windows

• Prevent collisions – place feeders either very close (less than 3 feet / 1 meter) or farther away (at least 30 feet / 9 meters) from windows. This prevents birds from hitting the glass at high speed.

height and distance from predators

• Keep feeders elevated – hang or mount feeders at least 5–6 feet (1.5–2 meters) above the ground to keep birds safe from cats, foxes, and other predators.
• Avoid hidden ground-level areas – keep feeders away from thick bushes or tall grass where predators can hide and ambush birds.

sheltered but open location

• Provide some nearby cover – place feeders 6–10 feet (2–3 meters) from trees or shrubs so birds can retreat quickly if threatened.
• Avoid overly dense vegetation – too much cover can allow predators like cats or rodents to sneak up on feeding birds.

protection from squirrels and rodents

• Use distance and baffles – hang feeders at least 10–12 feet (3–4 meters) from trees or structures and use a baffle (a dome or cone-shaped guard) above or below the feeder to deter climbing rodents.

sunlight and weather considerations

• Winter – position feeders in sunny areas to help keep seeds dry and accessible.
• Summer – keep feeders in partial shade to prevent food from spoiling quickly.

accessibility for cleaning and refilling

• Choose a location that’s easy to reach for regular cleaning and refilling to prevent mold and disease buildup.

[37][38].

When should bird feeders be removed or given a break?

Feeders should be temporarily removed in the following cases:

• Disease outbreaks – If birds show signs of illness (swollen eyes, lethargy), remove and disinfect feeders to prevent disease spread.
• Spring and summer in food-rich areas – When natural food is abundant, reducing feeder use encourages natural foraging.
• Predator activity – If hawks or cats are hunting near feeders, take them down for a few weeks to break predation patterns.
• Rodent or pest infestations – If rats or raccoons become a problem, stop feeding and clean up spilled seeds.
• Bear-prone areas – Remove feeders in warmer months where bears are active to prevent wildlife conflicts.

[39]

Where is providing water for birds most necessary, and does it help or harm them?

Providing water is essential for birds, especially in arid regions, urban areas, and during extreme weather conditions where natural water sources may be scarce or inaccessible. Access to clean water supports birds by preventing dehydration, aiding in thermoregulation, and facilitating essential behaviors such as bathing, which maintains feather health.

Potential benefits:

• Hydration – Ensures birds maintain necessary body functions.
• Feather maintenance – Bathing helps remove parasites and keeps feathers in optimal condition.
• Temperature regulation – Access to water allows birds to cool down during hot weather.

Potential risks:

• Disease transmission – Stagnant or unclean water can harbor pathogens, leading to illnesses among bird populations.
• Predation – Improperly placed water sources may expose birds to predators.

Recommendations to minimize risks:

• Regular cleaning – Refresh water sources daily and clean them to prevent algae growth and contamination.
• Proper placement – Position water sources near cover, such as shrubs or trees, but with enough open space to allow birds to spot approaching predators.
• Appropriate depth – Use shallow containers, no more than 2–3 inches deep, to accommodate various bird species safely.

By thoughtfully providing and maintaining water sources, you can offer significant benefits to local bird populations while minimizing potential hazards.

[40][41].

Can outside swimming pools be a good source of water for birds?

• Outside swimming pools can potentially serve as water sources for birds, but there are several considerations. While birds may use pools for drinking and bathing, the water quality is often a concern. Many swimming pools are treated with chemicals like chlorine, which can be harmful to birds if ingested 
• . Additionally, stagnant water in neglected pools can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, which may attract birds but also pose health risks due to diseases like West Nile virus 
• Moreover, the presence of contaminants such as bacteria and fungi in pool water can further complicate their suitability as a water source for birds 
• . Therefore, while swimming pools can provide water for birds, their safety and quality must be carefully managed to ensure they do not pose health risks to avian species.
• [42][43][44].

What type of bird feeder is best for different areas and bird species?

Different types of bird feeders attract various species based on design, placement, and food availability. Choosing the right feeder can help support diverse bird populations while minimizing waste and competition.

Types of bird feeders:

• Platform feeders – Best for open spaces; attract cardinals, doves, and sparrows but also larger birds and squirrels. Use metal or weather-resistant wood.
• Tube feeders – Ideal for urban and backyard areas; suited for small birds like finches, chickadees, and titmice. Choose metal ports to prevent squirrel damage.
• Hopper feeders – Good for suburban gardens and wooded areas. They attract medium to large birds that prefer perching while eating, such as cardinals, grosbeaks, and finches. They also support jays and woodpeckers, provided they are sturdy and moisture-resistant.
• Suet feeders – Best for winter feeding in cold climates; attract insect-eaters like woodpeckers, wrens, and nuthatches. Use wire or mesh cages.
• Nectar feeders – Essential in warm climates for hummingbirds and orioles. Choose red-colored feeders to attract birds but avoid artificial dyes in nectar.

[45].

How should bird feeders be maintained and cleaned?

Regular maintenance and cleaning of bird feeders are essential to prevent disease transmission among birds. It’s recommended to clean feeders about once every two weeks, increasing frequency during periods of heavy use or wet weather. To clean, disassemble the feeder and wash it with soap and boiling water or a dilute bleach solution (no more than 1 part bleach to 9 parts water). After scrubbing away debris, soak the feeder in the bleach solution for 10 minutes, rinse thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely before refilling. Additionally, clean the ground below feeders to remove accumulated waste, which can harbor mold and attract pests.

[46].

How often should bird feeders be refilled?

Keeping bird feeders stocked with fresh food ensures birds receive consistent nutrition while preventing seed spoilage and waste.

• Daily or every few days – frequent refilling ensures fresh, uncontaminated food and prevents birds from relying too heavily on a single food source.
• Winter feeding – in cold climates, check feeders at least once a day since birds rely on high-energy foods to survive.
• Adjust based on demand – if seed remains untouched for days, reduce the amount to avoid spoilage and mold growth.

[47].

What happens if feeders are left empty for several days? Does inconsistent feeding affect birds?

Birds generally do not become entirely dependent on feeders and will continue to forage naturally when feeders are empty. However, the impact of inconsistent feeding varies based on species and environmental conditions.

• Most birds will find alternative food – Wild birds have diverse foraging strategies and will seek out natural food sources.
• Winter concerns – In extreme cold, sudden food loss can cause stress, but many species have backup foraging behaviors.
• Migratory birds are less affected – Migratory species do not rely solely on a single feeder, as they naturally switch between food sources.

[48].

What foods should be avoided when feeding birds?

Some human foods can be harmful or even fatal to birds. Avoid offering the following:

• Bread and crackers – low in nutrients; can cause malnutrition.
• Salty or processed foods – high sodium levels harm birds.
• Raw rice or dried beans – hard to digest and potentially dangerous.
• Milk or dairy – birds lack the enzymes to digest lactose.
• Spoiled or moldy seeds – can cause fatal fungal infections like aspergillosis.

[49].

What human foods or leftovers can safely be given to birds?

Some human foods can be safe and nutritious for birds when given in moderation:

• Unsalted nuts – peanuts, almonds, and walnuts provide protein and fats.
• Cooked rice or pasta – plain, unseasoned, and soft for easy digestion.
• Fresh or dried fruits – apples, bananas, raisins, and berries mimic natural diets.
• Hard-boiled eggs (crushed shells too!) – protein-rich and good for calcium intake.
• Oatmeal or whole grains – uncooked oats or cornmeal are safe and nutritious.

[50].

How Bird Feeders Influence Bird Behavior Over Time

Do birds communicate with each other when a feeder is full?

Yes, birds use visual cues, vocalizations, and behavior to signal food availability. Different species have developed various communication strategies to alert others about food sources.

• Alarm calls and feeding calls – Chickadees (Poecile atricapillus), finches (Fringillidae), and sparrows (Passeridae) emit short calls to alert flock members to a food source.
• Observational learning – Birds watch where others feed and follow successful foragers, learning from experienced individuals.
• Flock behavior – Some species, like juncos (Junco hyemalis) and waxwings (Bombycilla spp.), arrive in groups when food is plentiful, suggesting social communication about resources.

[53][54]

Why do birds suddenly stop visiting feeders?

Birds may stop visiting feeders for several reasons, often linked to seasonal changes, safety concerns, or feeder conditions.

• Seasonal shifts – Many birds switch to natural food sources, such as insects and berries, when they become abundant.
• Predators nearby – The presence of hawks, cats, or other threats can make birds temporarily avoid feeders.
• Feeder cleanliness – Moldy or spoiled seeds discourage birds and may spread disease.
• Feeder placement change – Even minor adjustments in location can cause birds to take time to readjust.

[55].

Why aren’t birds eating from my feeder, even when I offer the right food?

Birds may avoid a feeder despite the availability of suitable food due to various environmental and behavioral factors.

• New feeder hesitancy – Birds take time to recognize and trust new feeders.
• Poor feeder placement – If too exposed, birds feel vulnerable to predators; if too hidden, they may not find it.
• Seed quality issues – Stale, moldy, or low-nutrient seeds (like old millet) are often ignored.
• Too much competition – Larger or more aggressive birds may dominate the feeder, preventing smaller species from accessing food.

[56]

Why are birds dying around my bird feeder?

Observing deceased birds near your feeder can be distressing. Several factors may contribute to this issue:

• Disease transmission – dirty feeders can harbor pathogens such as Salmonella and Trichomonas, leading to fatal infections in birds. Regular cleaning of feeders is essential to prevent the spread of these diseases.
• Toxic food or contaminated seeds – moldy seeds can cause aspergillosis, a severe fungal infection affecting birds’ respiratory systems. Ensuring that feed is fresh and dry helps prevent this condition.
• Window collisions – birds feeding near windows may inadvertently fly into the glass, resulting in fatal injuries. Placing feeders either very close to or far from windows can reduce this risk.
• Predation – birds weakened by disease or distracted while feeding become easier targets for predators such as hawks and domestic cats. Positioning feeders away from dense cover can help minimize surprise attacks.

[57][58]

Why don’t birds feed at night?

• Most birds are diurnal – they rely on vision to find food, making nighttime feeding impractical.
• Higher predator risk – nocturnal predators like owls and raccoons are active at night, increasing danger for birds.
• Exception: some night-feeding species – certain birds, such as nightjars and some waterfowl, feed at night, but most feeder-visiting birds do not.

[59]

Innovations and Technology in Bird Feeding

Alternative Ways to Support Birds Without Traditional Feeders

What are the best plants for attracting different birds in various regions?

North America:
Hummingbirds: Trumpet vine (Campsis radicans), bee balm (Monarda), columbine (Aquilegia).
Finches & sparrows: Sunflowers (Helianthus), coneflowers (Echinacea), black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia).
Thrushes & robins: Serviceberry (Amelanchier), holly (Ilex), dogwood (Cornus).

Europe:
Tits & finches: Sunflowers (Helianthus), teasel (Dipsacus), alder (Alnus).
Blackbirds & thrushes: Rowan (Sorbus), hawthorn (Crataegus), elderberry (Sambucus).
Robins & wrens: Ivy (Hedera), honeysuckle (Lonicera), bramble (Rubus).

Australia:
Lorikeets & honeyeaters: Grevillea, bottlebrush (Callistemon), eucalyptus.
Cockatoos & parrots: Acacia, banksia, casuarina.
Wrens & finches: Kangaroo grass (Themeda), saltbush (Atriplex), millet.

Africa:
Sunbirds & weavers: Aloes (Aloe), coral tree (Erythrina), red hot poker (Kniphofia).
Doves & pigeons: Fig trees (Ficus), baobab (Adansonia), millet.

Asia:
Bulbuls & magpies: Banyan (Ficus benghalensis), pomegranate (Punica granatum), mulberry (Morus).
Pheasants & partridges: Bamboo (Bambusoideae), millet, amaranth (Amaranthus).

South America:
Hummingbirds & tanagers: Fuchsia (Fuchsia), passionflower (Passiflora), bromeliads.
Parrots & macaws: Palm trees (Arecaceae), guava (Psidium guajava), papaya (Carica papaya).

[66][67]

What do crows and magpies eat, and how can you attract them?

Crows and magpies are omnivorous corvids, meaning they eat a wide variety of foods, including insects, small animals, carrion, fruits, nuts, and even human leftovers. Unlike seed-eating songbirds, they do not rely on specific plants, which is why they are often excluded from traditional bird-feeding lists.

Best plants to attract crows and magpies:
nut- and fruit-producing trees – oak (Quercus), walnut (Juglans), cherry (Prunus).
berry bushes – elderberry (Sambucus), mulberry (Morus), hawthorn (Crataegus).
open fields & grasslands – provide insects and small prey.

[68][69]

What else can we provide for garden birds besides food and water?

Shelter and nesting sites – native trees, dense shrubs, and birdhouses protect birds from predators and weather.
Nesting materials – offer natural fibers like twigs, dry grass, moss, or wool to help birds build nests. avoid synthetic materials.
Dust or sand baths – birds like sparrows and thrushes use dust baths to remove parasites and keep feathers healthy.
Perching and roosting spots – dead trees (snags), branches, and tall structures give birds safe resting areas.
Insect-friendly gardens – avoid pesticides and plant pollinator-friendly flowers to support insect-eating birds.

[70][71]

How can you design a bird-friendly garden?

Plant native vegetation – choose native trees, shrubs, and flowers to provide natural food sources like seeds, berries, and nectar.
Layered landscaping – includes a mix of ground cover, bushes, and tall trees to create shelter and nesting sites for different bird species.
Water features – install birdbaths, shallow ponds, or dripping water sources for drinking and bathing.
Avoid pesticides and herbicides – protect insect populations, which are essential for insectivorous birds.
Provide nesting sites – offer birdhouses, dense hedges, and natural cavities for breeding.
Create safe feeding areas – place bird feeders away from predators, near cover but not too hidden.

[72][73].

Should We Feed and Provide Water for Birds? A Balanced Perspective

📖 Sources:

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6. Robb, G. N., McDonald, R. A., et al. (2008). “Food for thought: supplementary feeding as a driver of ecological change in avian populations.” Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, 6(9), 476-484. DOI: 10.1890/060152
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