This morning there were two birds on the roof, a cardinal and a mockingbird. They both are always around the yard or the neighbors' yards, but I've never seen the cardinal this close-up before
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Mixed bird seed works well until you see what's coming to your feeder. Then you might want to refine it to match the birds that come. I would suugest however, that you hang a feeder from the ceiling over the patio. You'll be able to see it better and the squirrels will have more trouble getting to it. They make some with wire mesh cages around them where the holes are big enough for birds but too small for squirrels.You are in a great area for hummingbirds, but hang that near the garage away from the door and away from the swing set. The sugar water attracts more than just hummingbirds - wasps and yellow jackets. DFIL
Yeah, better to plant hummingbird-attracting native bushes than to have hummingbird feeders -- though, of course, that may encourage kitties on the prowl.
Do you have a favorite garden supply store in your area -- a good one might have excellent advice about plants and feeders and the like. Of course, one might also ask a reference librarian for sources of information, but you know how much I'm biased towards their advice.
I like Duncraft online or Audubon Workshop. I really like the PVC pipe style feeders because then you don't have to worry about squirrels destroying your feeder (though this might cost a little more).
For hummers, try hummingbird.net - you have a GREAT location for hummers, best in the US maybe.
I usually stick with black oil sunflower, or during grackle nesting season, I use safflower. Goldfinches (and others) like Nyjer also known as thistle (will not sprout, its been treated), but it costs more.
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DFIL
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Do you have a favorite garden supply store in your area -- a good one might have excellent advice about plants and feeders and the like. Of course, one might also ask a reference librarian for sources of information, but you know how much I'm biased towards their advice.
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For hummers, try hummingbird.net - you have a GREAT location for hummers, best in the US maybe.
I usually stick with black oil sunflower, or during grackle nesting season, I use safflower. Goldfinches (and others) like Nyjer also known as thistle (will not sprout, its been treated), but it costs more.
Cornell is the best resource: http://www.allaboutbirds.org
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