GIFT YOUR LOVED ONES A SET OF BIRD WATCHING BINOCULARS
by adminFiled under Backyard Bird Articles
You want the best gift for your loved ones during their holidays. These gifts when selected carefully can become a great past time for any one. Bird watching is a great hobby and is gaining popularity day by day. In fact bird watching is an art. For bird watching you need specific binoculars that are designed for the purpose of bird watching. If your loved one has interest in bird watching then the set of bird watching binoculars will be a great gift for that person. These binoculars will make bird watching activity more rewarding and fun for your loved ones.
If you want to gift your loved one a set of binoculars for bird watching during his holidays then you must take care of some things before buying bird watching binoculars.
The first thing that you need to take care is the magnification of these kinds of binoculars. The lenses of the bird watching binoculars must be of significant magnification. This is because the bird watching activity cannot be done at close distance. Even the slightest movement from your side will make the birds scary and they will fly away. But if the magnification of the binocular is strong enough then bird watching activity can be done from a pretty long distance without any fear of scaring the birds. You can always zoom in the lenses to observe the habits and the attributes of the birds.
When you go in the market to purchase this kind of binoculars for your loved one then you will find out that the binoculars are marked with the magnification number that is followed by an “x”. And along with the magnification number there is also written another number that will tell us about the quantity of light that the binocular prism allows to enter. Both these numbers are of great importance in the purchase of binoculars.
It is quiet easy to understand the magnification number as it simply tells us that how much our normal eyesight is magnified by the binoculars. On the other hand if the second number of the binocular is low then the visibility of the binoculars is influenced by the light emerging in the lenses. The greater the number the better will be the visibility.
If the person whom you want to gift binoculars for bird watching is quiet experienced bird watcher then a bird watching binocular of 10x magnification will be best. On the other hand if he is new in the line then binocular of 7x or 8 x magnifications will be enough.
There are many other things that you must keep in mind while purchasing binoculars. You should keep in mind the eyesight of the person for whom you are purchasing binoculars. This thing has a great impact on the type of binoculars. You should also compare the binoculars on the basis of their weight, focus and clarification. Bird watching binocular is definitely a good gift for your loved ones and they will cherish this gift throughout their life.
Are you looking for the best deals on bird watching binocular? Visit http://www.squidoo.com/Swarovski10×42slcBinoculars today!
The Birds in Bible and Quran
by adminFiled under Backyard Bird Articles
The issues concerning the Birds in the Bible are:1) The Birds are Detestable and intolerable, 2) The Purification of man is achieved by the Birds’ blood, 3) Sparrow and swallow are symbols of the curse, 4) A new method for Education is to ask the birds, 5) Do not revile the king even in your thoughts, or curse the rich in your bedroom” because the birds are spying out on you, and 6) The Birds have four legs, a statement that contradicts with the science.
The issues concerning the Birds in the Quran are: 1)What are the Birds, 2)The Birds and the Famous Prophets (Abraham, Joseph, David, Solomon and the Lord Jesus), 3) The Birds beat a Christian Army, 4) The Birds and the unbelievers and 5)The Birds and the believers in the afterlife.
Upon reading the Birds in Bible versus Quran, the smart just reader can easily answer this dogmatic question:” Is the Quran quoted or borrowed from the Bible?”
Before dealing with the topic of the Birds in Quran versus Bible versus sciences, it is essential to remember that the total words of the Bible are 788,280 while total words of the Quran are 77,473. It follows that, the Bible has the potential of more than 10 times the Quran to talk about the Birds word-wise.
The Birds mentioned 129 times in the Bible and 17 times in the Quran.
The Birds in the Bible:
The Detestable and intolerable Birds
Leviticus 11
13 ” ‘These are the birds you are to detest and not eat because they are detestable: the eagle, the vulture, the black vulture, 14 the red kite, any kind of black kite, 15 any kind of raven, 16 the horned owl, the screech owl, the gull, any kind of hawk, 17 the little owl, the cormorant, the great owl, 18 the white owl, the desert owl, the osprey, 19 the stork, any kind of heron, the hoopoe and the bat.
21 There are, however, some winged creatures that walk on all fours that you may eat: those that have jointed legs for hopping on the ground.
22 Of these you may eat any kind of locust, katydid, cricket or grasshopper.
23 But all other winged creatures that have four legs you are to detest.
24 ” ‘You will make yourselves unclean by these; whoever touches their carcasses will be unclean till evening.
25 Whoever picks up one of their carcasses must wash his clothes, and he will be unclean till evening.
Clean and unclean Birds:
Leviticus 11:46
” ‘These are the regulations concerning animals, birds, every living thing that moves in the water and every creature that moves about on the ground.
47 You must distinguish between the unclean and the clean, between living creatures that may be eaten and those that may not be eaten.’ “
Leviticus 20:25
” ‘You must therefore make a distinction between clean and unclean animals and between unclean and clean birds. Do not defile yourselves by any animal or bird or anything that moves along the ground—those which I have set apart as unclean for you.
The Purification of man is achieved by the Birds’ blood.
Leviticus 14:5
Then the priest shall order that one of the birds be killed over fresh water in a clay pot.
Leviticus 14:52
He shall purify the house with the bird’s blood, the fresh water, the live bird, the cedar wood, the hyssop and the scarlet yarn.
Sparrow and swallow are symbols of the curse
Proverbs 26
1 Like snow in summer or rain in harvest,
honor is not fitting for a fool.
2 Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow,
an undeserved curse does not come to rest.
A new method for Education is to ask the birds.
Job 12:7
“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds of the air, and they will tell you;
Freedom of speech is “Do not revile the king even in your thoughts, or curse the rich in your bedroom”
Why? Because the birds are spying out on you…
What if the king or the rich is evil? Can not we criticize them?
Ecclesiastes 10:20
Do not revile the king even in your thoughts, or curse the rich in your bedroom, because a bird of the air may carry your words, and a bird on the wing may report what you say.
Why the God love is going to do that?
Deuteronomy 28:26
Your carcasses will be food for all the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and there will be no one to frighten them away.
Jeremiah 15:3
“I will send four kinds of destroyers against them,” declares the LORD, “the sword to kill and the dogs to drag away and the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth to devour and destroy.
Jeremiah 7:33
Then the carcasses of this people will become food for the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and there will be no one to frighten them away.
Zephaniah 1:3
“I will sweep away both men and animals; I will sweep away the birds of the air and the fish of the sea. The wicked will have only heaps of rubble when I cut off man from the face of the earth,” declares the LORD.
Birds with four legs:
This statement is mentioned in Leviticus 11:20
Herein, I will give you the different translations of this verse:
New International Version
“All flying insects that walk on all fours are to be detestable to you.”
King James Version
“All fowls that creep, going upon all four, shall be an abomination unto you.”
New American Standard Bible
“All the winged insects that walk on all fours are detestable to you.”
Darby Translation
“Every winged crawling thing that goeth upon all four shall be an abomination unto you.”
The translation of my Arabic bible is:
“All the birds that walk on all fours are to be detestable to you”.
Can any one show me where in the earth we can find a single bird with four legs. The Bible says there are winged creatures (birds or insects) that go around on all fours. There are no birds that go around on four legs, and all insects have six legs.
This verse contradicts with the sciences.
The Birds in the Quran
Birds are mentioned 17 times in the Quran
The issues concerning the Birds in the Quran are:
1) What are the Birds
2) The Birds and the Famous Prophets (Abraham, Joseph, David, Solomon and the Lord Jesus)
3) The Birds beat a Christian Army
4) The Birds and the unbelievers
5) The Birds in the afterlife.
What are the Birds?
Surah 6:38
“There is not an animal (that lives) on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you. Nothing have We omitted from the Book, and they (all) shall be gathered to their Lord in the end.”
Surah 16:79
“Do they not look at the birds, held poised in the midst of (the air and) the sky? Nothing holds them up but (the power of) Allah. Verily in this are Signs for those who believe.”
Surah 24:41
“Seest thou not that it is Allah Whose praises all beings in the heavens and on earth do celebrate, and the birds (of the air) with wings outspread? Each one knows its own (mode of) prayer and praise. And Allah knows well all that they do.”
Surah 67:19
“Do they not observe the birds above them, spreading their wings and folding them in? None can uphold them except (Allah) Most Gracious: truly it is He that watches over all things.”
These verses define the Birds and give the following statements:
- The Birds are communities like mankind.
- The flying birds of the air with wings outspreads are among the signs of Allah, The Almighty Creator
- The birds spreading their wings and folding them in are among the signs of Allah, The Almighty Creator.
- It should be emphasized that the Quran never said that there is a detestable bird(s).
Abraham and the Birds:
Surah 2:260
“Behold! Ibrahim said: “My Lord! Show me how Thou givest life to the dead.” He said: “Dost thou not then believe?” He said: “Yea! but to satisfy my own understanding.” He said: “Take four birds; tame them to turn to thee; put a portion of them on every hill, and call to them; they will come to thee, (flying) with speed. Then know that Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise.”
In this verse, Allah showed Abraham how to give life to the DEAD. This meaning is not found in the Bible.
Joseph (The Son of Jacob) and the Birds:
Surah 12:36
Now with him there came into the prison two young men. Said one of them: “I see myself (in a dream) pressing wine.” Said the other: “I see myself (in a dream) carrying bread on my head, and birds are eating thereof.” “Tell us” (they said) “the truth and meaning thereof: for we see thou art one that doth good (to all).”
Surah 12:41
“O my two companions of the prison! as to one of you, he will pour out the wine for his lord to drink: as for the other, he will hang from the cross, and the birds will eat from off his head. (So) hath been decreed that matter whereof ye twain do enquire.”
These are the dreams that have been seen by the two companions of the prison while Joseph was in jail. Joseph interpreted the dreams and told them that one of the two will be freed up to go back to be with the king and the other will hang from the cross, and the birds will eat from off his head.
A similar story is found in the Bible in Genesis 40:19
King David and the Birds:
Surah 34:10
We bestowed Grace aforetime on David from Ourselves: “O ye Mountains! sing ye back the Praises of Allah with him! and ye birds (also)! and We made the iron soft for him;
38:19
And the birds gathered (in assemblies): all with him did turn (to Allah).
The mountains and the Birds were singing back the Praises of Allah with David.
This implication is not found in the Bible.
King Solomon and the Birds:
Surah 21:79
To Solomon We inspired the (right) understanding of the matter: to each (of them) We gave Judgment and Knowledge; it was Our power that made the hills and the birds celebrate Our praises, with David: it was We Who did (all these things).
Surah 27:16
And Solomon was David’s heir. He said: “O ye people! we have been taught the speech of birds and on us has been bestowed (a little) of all things: this is indeed Grace manifest (from Allah.)”
Surah 27:17
And before Solomon were marshaled his hosts, of Jinns and men and birds, and they were all kept in order and ranks.
Surah 27:20
And he took a muster of the Birds; and he said: “Why is it I see not the Hoopoe? Or is he among the absentees?
These verses indicate that:
- Allah made the hills and the birds celebrate Our praises, with David.
- Allah taught Solomon the speech of birds, and bestowed him of all things and his kingdom on the earth has no similar.
- Solomon had an interesting story with the Hoopoe
(Read my article about the Hoopoe in Bible and Quran).
All of these connotations are not found in the Bible.
The Lord Jesus and the Birds:
Surah 3:49
“And (appoint him) a Messenger to the Children of Israel, (with this message): “I have come to you, with a Sign from your Lord, in that I make for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breathe into it, and it becomes a bird by Allah’s leave: and I heal those born blind, and the lepers, and I quicken the dead, by Allah’s leave; and I declare to you what ye eat, and what ye store in your houses. Surely therein is a Sign for you if ye did believe;”
Surah 5:110
“Then will Allah say: “O ‘Jesus the son of Mary! recount My favour to thee and to thy mother. Behold! I strengthened thee with the holy spirit, so that thou didst speak to the people in childhood and in maturity. Behold! I taught thee the Book and Wisdom, the Law and the Gospel. And behold! thou makest out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, by My leave, and thou breathest into it, and it becometh a bird by My leave, and thou healest those born blind, and the lepers, by My leave. And behold! thou bringest forth the dead by My leave. And behold! I did restrain the Children of Israel from (violence to) thee when thou didst show them the Clear Signs, and the Unbelievers among them said: `This is nothing but evident magic”.
These two verses designate to two important miracles of the Lord Jesus that Allah gave him and both are not mentioned in the Bible.
The first is that he used to make out of clay the figure of a bird and breathe into it, and it becomes a bird by Allah’s leave
The second is that he talked to the Israelites while he was about one week old.
The Birds beat a Christian Army
Surah 105:1-5
[1] Seest thou not how thy Lord dealt with the Companions of the Elephant?
[2] Did He not make their treacherous plan go astray?
[3] And He sent against them flights of Birds,
[4] Striking them with stones of baked clay.
[5] Then did He make them like an empty field of stalks and straw, (of which the corn) has been eaten up.
At the year of the birth of the Prophet Mohammad, a strong Ethiopian Army went towards Makkah (the city of birth of Mohammad) in order to destroy the Holy Home of ALLAH (the place of pilgrim). The Arabs had no power to fight against that very big and strong army. The Arabs left Makka alone. Allah sent flights of Birds and defended His Holy House. Hundreds of birds which had never been seen before flew towards Makkah. Each bird had 3 little stones. These Birds beat the Ethiopian Army.
That year is called the year of “Elephant” because the Army brought a dozen of elephants in order to destroy the Holy House of Allah.
This story emphasizes the unlimited power of Allah Who can beat any big army with birds or microbes or viruses etc.
Of course, this story is not present in the Bible.
The Birds and the unbelievers
Surah 22:31
“Being true in faith to Allah, and never assigning partners to Him: if anyone assigns partners to Allah, he is as if he had fallen from heaven and been snatched up by birds, or the wind had swooped (like a bird on its prey) and thrown him into a far-distant place.
This is a parable of the unbeliever illustrating his loss.”
The Birds and the believers
The Birds in the afterlife
56:21
“And the flesh of fowls, any that they may desire.”
The believers in the Paradise will eat delicious flesh of fowls; cooked, presented and served according to their desire.
Now, I will let the smart fair reader to answer the dogmatic question:
Is the Quran quoted or borrowed from the Bible?
Professor Dr. Ibrahim Khalil
Prof. of Clinical and Chemical Pathology,
Head of Clinical Microbiology and Infection Control Unit,
Ain-Shams University., Cairo, Egypt.
And,
President of the Egyptian Society of Inventors.
Member of the Egyptian union of Writers
Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder-Fact or Fiction
by adminFiled under Backyard Bird Articles
The Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder is unique in its design and deterrence. The biggest difference between the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder and other brands of squirrel proof bird feeders on the market is the immediate, corrective action. With squirrel proof bird feeders that rely on cages and weight activation mechanisms, squirrels need to learn on their own that birdseed rewards are not possible. To learn this, squirrels need to grip, hang and chew on the squirrel proof bird feeders for multiple visits before they realize that the energy they are expending to receive birdseed is not being rewarded. However, with the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder, the stinging response is immediate and effective.
A mild, corrective sting keeps critters off the feeder the instant squirrels touch two metal parts on the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder. The reason birds are not able to receive this sting is due to their physiological makeup. You see, a bird’s beak and feet are made of cartilage, bone if you will. Electricity is conducted through our blood vessels, not our bone structure. Birds bodies are covered with feathers, which do not contain exposed blood vessels, either. A mammal’s skin has exposed blood vessels near the surface, which is sufficient for conductivity on the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder. The sting is not harmful, about the same as a static charge you get when you grab a metal doorknob after walking on a carpet in your stocking feet.
What does all this mean? Any mammal that comes in contact with two different metal parts on the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder will receive the corrective sting. From the top or bottom, the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder is protected from squirrels. Humans, however, know where the on/off switch is located! We can turn the feeder off without stinging ourselves to fill and clean.
Does all this complicated circuitry really work to keep squirrels from stealing all the birdseed? According to our huge customer base and two decades of experiences, the honest answer is yes and no. The large 8 port Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder has a generous 10lb. capacity. The huge 12 port model can hold up to 20lbs. Each model has metal perches, metal trays on the bottom, metal hangars and metal parts on the top dome. The squirrels will be able to eat off the bottom tray, without touching a second metal part. For some people, unfortunately, this means the feeder is not 100% squirrel proof. For others, protecting the huge 10lb. & 20lb. seed chambers are the main goals. If the squirrels can only eat the seed droppings on the bottom tray, these customers are quite content with the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders.
Each Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder operates through the use of a single 9-volt battery. Each model only uses the battery upon a mammal’s touching of the two metal parts we have discussed. How many times the circuits are used will determine the life of the 9-volt battery. We have discovered that during the first one or two months of introducing the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder to your backyard, these batteries will need to be changed about 2-3 times. This is the training period for your squirrels. Squirrels are not sadistic creatures. They do not enjoy pain and will not return to test the feeders after about 3-4 attempts. Since each squirrel in your area will have to be taught about this new stinging device, we estimate that by the end of the second month, batteries are on stand-by only. We only change our battery about 3 times per year. Our local critters know about the penalty for trying to steal birdseed from our Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder. Nighttime raids by raccoons can drain the batteries faster, depending on the number of visitors you get each night, if at all.
There is not such thing as a 100% squirrel proof bird feeder. Our long experience has shown us that at sometime, somewhere, somehow, a squirrel will receive a birdseed reward for their diligence on any squirrel proof bird feeder. If your desire is to purchase a squirrel proof bird feeder that squirrels can not own, then the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder, with its immediate stinging, will give you years of stree-free enjoyment. Visit “Bird Droppings” for all your wild bird news, facts and tips.
- steve white
Feeding The Wild Birds in Your Backyard
by adminFiled under Backyard Bird Articles
People used to frown on the practice of feeding wild birds, saying that it took away the birds’ natural behavior to migrate South for the winters. But it is proven that bird feeding does not harm wild birds and does not deter them from their natural instinct of migrating. People don’t realize that not all birds migrate. There are some wild birds that don’t migrate, they live in one area and can withstand the cold winters till spring comes along. Cardinals and Woodpeckers are just some of the birds species that don’t migrate. When food from the forests is scarce they depend on bird seed for their survival. There are a variety of bird feeders to consider if you decide to put one up in your garden.
There are one time use bird feeders which are completely edible and can be hung up on a tree branch and be picked apart and eaten by birds till there is nothing left. There are also reusable ones such as the tube bird feeders which have slots and openings that you can fill different bird seed into. Bird feeders can be hung or placed on a flat surface like a table or porch or even put up in a window. Bird Seed Trays are found on most tube feeders in order to catch the falling seed that drops while they are feeding.
If you prefer putting a more nutritious variety for the wild birds that come visit your garden, you can also put mealworms for them to eat. Mealworms are eaten by Cardinals, woodpeckers, robins, and bluebirds. Mealworms provide protein to a wild bird’s diet and keeps them healthy during the seasons when other food is scarce. Make sure you have a separate meal worm feeder placed in your garden from the seed feeder. There are some birds who prefer eating just the seed so it is important to keep the Dried Mealworms on a separate meal worm feeder. If you want to attract different varieties of birds in your garden you can put out a wild bird seed feeder. A wild seed feeder can include all kinds of seeds that different birds enjoy eating.
Most bird watchers will notice that squirrels create a lot of problems when they realize bird seed is available in your yard. Squirrels can destroy your bird feeder, scare away the birds and eat all of the bird seed while creating a big mess. There are a lot of new bird feeders that are specially made to prevent squirrels from accessing the seed. These bird feeders are called Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders. Squirrel proof bird feeders usually have a perch that can support the weight of a bird but will not be able to support the weight of the squirrel. When a squirrel tries to stand on the perch to access the bird seed the perch tips making it impossible for the squirrel to stay stable and feed.
Enjoy your garden and let the wildlife enjoy it too. Keep out bird seed for the birds to enjoy and you will get to experience nature at its best. There are so many choices of bird feeders and so many different kinds of bird seed. Putting out bird seed will attract and give you a chance to see bird species that you were probably thought were rare.
- Chantelle Simoes
Hummingbird Bird Feeders – Choosing the right one for your garden
by adminFiled under Backyard Bird Articles
Hummingbirds are beautiful as well as amazing to watch and many bird watchers and gardeners are keen to attract them in to their backyards. Specially designed hummingbird feeders are the best way to do this as they provide the very hard working hummingbird with an easy, quick source of food.
Hummingbirds diet consists of mostly of sugary nectar, pollen and small insects. They have a very high metabolism and need to consume lots of sugar to keep active throughout the day.
Hummingbird feeders come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes but there are essentially two main types of bird feeders , the saucer feeder and the inverted feeder. The saucer feeder is basically a dish that is filled with a sugary liquid, hummingbirds feed on this nectar through specially designed feeding holes. The saucer feeders are often smaller (and usually cheaper) than inverted feeders and are generally easier to clean, however they need to be refilled more often and depending on their size might not be that obvious to the hummingbirds.
Inverted feeders are larger (and often more expensive) , more visible to visiting birds and don’t require regular refilling. However inverted feeders can be difficult to clean and are poor quality feeders are prone to leaking. Although there are advantages and disadvantages for both types of feeders most people choose the inverted feeders as they tend to be more effective in attracting hummingbirds. As well as deciding on the type of feeder, consider the following factors when deciding which hummingbird feeder to purchase.
Look for a feeder that is built using some red materials. Hummingbirds are attracted to red objects and are more likely to use your feeder if it’s got a red base or tube. Also choose a feeder that is easy to clean and refill. Hummingbird feeders should be refilled twice a week or possibly more depending on the number of Hummingbirds in your garden. Larger feeders are generally easier to clean and there are special brushes that can help make the cleaning process easier.
Its worth investing in a feeder that has one or more perches on it. Although it is fascinating to watch a hummingbird hover while feeder it uses a lot of energy and are more likely to feed if you provide a perch for them to rest on.
The sugary liquid in your feeder will obviously attract many insects including wasps if it leaks out of the feeder. Many feeders have built in ant and bee protectors or you can purchase them to fit your bird feeders.
Once you have got your hummingbird feeders select a visible spot that is in the sun and ideally near a flower bed. It may take a while before you see hummingbirds and a little longer before they feel confident enough to feed using your bird feeders. After a while you maybe able to bring the feeder closer to the house so you can view from a window, however do not place too close to the window otherwise the Hummingbirds may fly in to the window and injure themselves.
Once your bird feeders are in place and filled with a sweet sugary solution, sit back and wait for these beautiful birds to start feeding – it is worth all the effort when you see the Hummingbirds feeing in your backyard.
- Tom White
Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder-Fact or Fiction
by adminFiled under Backyard Bird Articles
The Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder is unique in its design and deterrence. The biggest difference between the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder and other brands of squirrel proof bird feeders on the market is the immediate, corrective action. With squirrel proof bird feeders that rely on cages and weight activation mechanisms, squirrels need to learn on their own that birdseed rewards are not possible. To learn this, squirrels need to grip, hang and chew on the squirrel proof bird feeders for multiple visits before they realize that the energy they are expending to receive birdseed is not being rewarded. However, with the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder, the stinging response is immediate and effective.
A mild, corrective sting keeps critters off the feeder the instant squirrels touch two metal parts on the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder. The reason birds are not able to receive this sting is due to their physiological makeup. You see, a bird’s beak and feet are made of cartilage, bone if you will. Electricity is conducted through our blood vessels, not our bone structure. Birds bodies are covered with feathers, which do not contain exposed blood vessels, either. A mammal’s skin has exposed blood vessels near the surface, which is sufficient for conductivity on the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder. The sting is not harmful, about the same as a static charge you get when you grab a metal doorknob after walking on a carpet in your stocking feet.
What does all this mean? Any mammal that comes in contact with two different metal parts on the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder will receive the corrective sting. From the top or bottom, the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder is protected from squirrels. Humans, however, know where the on/off switch is located! We can turn the feeder off without stinging ourselves to fill and clean.
Does all this complicated circuitry really work to keep squirrels from stealing all the birdseed? According to our huge customer base and two decades of experiences, the honest answer is yes and no. The large 8 port Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder has a generous 10lb. capacity. The huge 12 port model can hold up to 20lbs. Each model has metal perches, metal trays on the bottom, metal hangars and metal parts on the top dome. The squirrels will be able to eat off the bottom tray, without touching a second metal part. For some people, unfortunately, this means the feeder is not 100% squirrel proof. For others, protecting the huge 10lb. & 20lb. seed chambers are the main goals. If the squirrels can only eat the seed droppings on the bottom tray, these customers are quite content with the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders.
Each Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder operates through the use of a single 9-volt battery. Each model only uses the battery upon a mammal’s touching of the two metal parts we have discussed. How many times the circuits are used will determine the life of the 9-volt battery. We have discovered that during the first one or two months of introducing the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder to your backyard, these batteries will need to be changed about 2-3 times. This is the training period for your squirrels. Squirrels are not sadistic creatures. They do not enjoy pain and will not return to test the feeders after about 3-4 attempts. Since each squirrel in your area will have to be taught about this new stinging device, we estimate that by the end of the second month, batteries are on stand-by only. We only change our battery about 3 times per year. Our local critters know about the penalty for trying to steal birdseed from our Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder. Nighttime raids by raccoons can drain the batteries faster, depending on the number of visitors you get each night, if at all.
There is not such thing as a 100% squirrel proof bird feeder. Our long experience has shown us that at sometime, somewhere, somehow, a squirrel will receive a birdseed reward for their diligence on any squirrel proof bird feeder. If your desire is to purchase a squirrel proof bird feeder that squirrels can not own, then the Wild Bills Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder, with its immediate stinging, will give you years of stree-free enjoyment. Visit “Bird Droppings” for all your wild bird news, facts and tips.
- steve white
Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders – A Few Tips
by adminFiled under Backyard Bird Articles
You must be tired of the squirrels in your backyard that try to get something from the bird feeders you have put there for the birds visiting your backyard but with the squirrel proof, you can be sure they will not disturb you anymore. Bird feeders squirrel proof are meant to keep the squirrels and other animals you don’t want away and they come in various types.
You can get a bird feeder squirrel proof that collapses or spins with the weight of the squirrel. These are made to only support small weights such as those of the birds so that when the squirrels try to get the food, the feeder starts to spin and the squirrel falls to the ground. You can also use caged bird feeders which can only allow birds to get inside so that the squirrel will be too big for the space left. There are those that are only meant for the small sized birds to get inside depending on what you want hence the squirrel proof will prevent other larger birds you don’t want on your bird feeder as well as the squirrels.
You can also find ways of squirrel proofing your bird feeder which includes placing your bird feeder at a distance where the squirrel cannot reach as well as maintaining cleanliness around the area so the squirrels will not be attracted to the place. There are many companies producing squirrel ready bird feeders but important is to get one made of the best materials and is durable.
Read more about Bird Feeders Squirrel Proof. Visit our site for lots of Wooden Bird Feeders Information.
- sunarsih
Bird Houses–Where and When Do You Put Them
by adminFiled under Backyard Bird Articles
Different species of birds like different kinds of locations. For example, if you are looking to attract woodpeckers or nuthatches, you would want to place your bird house on a tree in a wooded area or on a post. Bluebirds, swallows and certain types of wrens would be comfortable in a house hung in an open field or in a large backyard that does not have much vegetation. Robins are attracted to wide wooden ledges with roofs over them that are protected from the wind.
Bird houses should be erected well in advance of the breeding season. This would, normally, be during late summer or early fall to give birds the opportunity to situate themselves before starting to breed. Bird watchers should have their bird houses up by early winter, the latest. When birds are appearing in your yard, it is already too late to start hanging nesting boxes.
The location of a bird house is just as important for attracting birds as is the type of house provided. Some species of birds prefer open, grassy areas and some prefer wooded shaded areas. However, it is recommended to place birds in a sunny, open space. One should be careful not to hang bird houses on trees as this gives easy access to the bird house for predators such as squirrels and cats.
Spacing, also, needs to be considered when erecting a bird house. Bird houses should be placed, at least, 5-30 feet above the ground, again, making them more difficult to be attacked by predators. And, always, it should be kept in mind that all bird houses should be, at least 25 feet apart. This would address the territorial issue of birds.
When the bird watchers main goal is to attract a variety of species to nesting boxes, pairing of boxes should be employed. This is done by putting boxes on poles in pairs. This offers the advantage of allowing more than one species to, peacefully, coexist in the same environment.
Following these simple guidelines can turn into a very pleasant experience for anyone interested in bird watching. They will attract many cheerful, singing birds that will provide entertainment for the interested bird watcher for hours.
- Mary Fesio
Including Science into Your Next Backyard Venture
by adminFiled under Backyard Bird Articles
Your backyard is a great place for your child to get outside in play. In addition to swimming and playing outdoor sports, your child can also use your backyard as a science experiment. If you are interested in helping them achieve this, you may want to familiarize yourself with some popular backyard activities, especially those that have a focus on nature and science.
Exploring your backyard is not only a fun activity, but it is also educational. There are a large number of living, breathing creatures that can be found outdoors. All children love exploring nature, but there are some who may enjoy this exploration more than others. Those children are likely to be toddlers or elementary school aged children. Since young children may need your assistance, you will want to pick backyard activities that you will also enjoy.
One of the many ways that you can incorporate science into your backyard is by studying the plants that can be found in your yard. While all backyards are likely to have a number of different plants or flowers, yours may have more. For the best type of environment, you are encouraged to explore areas of your yard that have yet to be mowed.
Your backyard is also likely full of a number of different insects. Like plants and flowers, your child may enjoy examining these bugs. It is not only fun to see what bugs live in your backyard, but it is also exciting to learn about how they survive. There is also a good chance that your children may leave your yard with a new pet.
In addition to the living things that can be found in your backyard, you and your child may also want to examine the weather and the impact it has on the yard and everything inside of if. Backyard conditions change as the weather changes. By examining your backyard after a rainy day, your child may find that many of the plants, flowers, and bugs have either changed or retreated to safer grounds. Examining the effect the weather has on the things in your backyard is not only fun, but educational.
To make the most out of your child’s next backyard adventure, you may want to consider purchasing them some science supplies. These supplies may include, but should not be limited to containers, butterfly catching nets, magnifying glasses, picture books, and resource guides. If your child is planning on capturing a few insects, a small cage or breathable container may be just what they need. These supplies, along with others, can be purchased from most retail stores. These stores may include department stores, home improvement stores, and toy stores.
To keep your exploration focused on education, science books and nature resource guides may be a nice addition to your child’s science collection. Many books and resource guide have a focus on insects, birds, plants, and flowers. Many of these resources will provide you with information and pictures. For a large selection of science and nature books, you are encouraged to shop online or visit your local book store.
When examining the plants, bugs, and flowers in your backyard, you and your child may want to document what you see. This can easily be done with a notebook or a camera. By taking pictures, your child will always be able to remember their exploration adventures. Those pictures could also be used for other crafts. Scrapbooks and collages are a great way to turn traditional photographs into something much more.
Whether your child plans on exploring your backyard or they do so without intending to, it is likely that they will interested with what they see and learn. Incorporating science into your next backyard adventure is just one of the many things that you and your child can do outdoors; however, it may be the most beneficial.
- christian abad
Birdfeeders for Backyard Viewing
by adminFiled under Backyard Bird Articles
When we place birdfeeders in our backyard we can enjoy more visits from the birds that habitate our area. If we place a number of different birdfeeders in our yard areas we will see many unusual breeds of birds especially when the weather is a little colder. This is the time of the year when it is a little harder for them to find their own natural food.
Some of the different breeds of bird enjoy the different seeds for nibbling on. Some of the birdfeeders will attract the small birds and others will entice the larger birds; it all depends on the style of feeder and what we put in them. Below you will find a number of birdfeeders and the type of birds that prefer to stop at them.
Tube Birdfeeder
The tube feeder is actually a plastic cylinder that has four or more perches with feeding holes large enough for sunflower seeds. If the feed openings have metal around them those pesty squirrels will not be able to chew through them. This tube birdfeeder is used by smaller birds such as the finch, titmouse, chickadee, and sparrow. The larger breeds have more of a difficult time feeding at these feeders unless there is a tray at the bottom for them to perch. Having the tray at the bottom you may attract some cardinals and other birds of the same size coming for a treat. Peanuts and sunflower seeds are usually the feed used in these birdfeeders.
Hopper Birdfeeder
The hopper feeder is usually a wooden framed box with plexi-glass sides with an area for the larger birds to perch and feed. If this birdfeeder is attached to a pole and has a squirrel baffle the squirrels will not be able to climb it and destroy the wood on the feeder. A good hopper feeder is made of cedar, which means it will not rot, and are attached with rust proof screws. Birds that are attracted to these birdfeeders are grosbeaks, cardinals, and doves. Peanuts, white millet, and sunflower and safflower seeds are a good mix for this backyard feeder.
Thistle Seed Birdfeeder
The thistle birdfeeder is also a tube style feeder but has very small holes for the Nyjer seed or finch mixture. Nyjer seed is the actual seed used in these feeders and it is sometimes referred to as thistle seed. The birds that enjoy this birdfeeder and its seeds are the smaller birds such as the goldfinch, house finch, and occasionally you will see the chickadee.
Suet Birdfeeder
Suet feeders are small cages constructed of wire with holes that are roughly1/2 inch to 1 inch in diameter. There are several selections of flavored suets to choose and woodpeckers like all of them. Woodpeckers are attracted by suet and also a number of other types of birds.This feed is a wonderful energy source for the insect-eating bird, such as the bluebird, nuthatch, and of course the woodpecker. You may even see the oriole and catbird visiting a suet feeder.There are some flavors of suet that squirrels do not like such as hot pepper flavor; so if you do not want the squirrel but do want a suet birdfeeder try the hot pepper.
Peanut Birdfeeder
A peanut feeder is again a tube style that is surrounded by metal mesh. You can also get this feeder constructed of wood but it has metal reinforced holes for squirrel protection. Peanuts and woodpecker mix can be used in this birdfeeder. This bird dinner table not only attracts the woodpecker but the chickadee, titmouse, nuthatch and the blue-jay.
Backyard birdfeeders are not the only thing that will attract the birds; they also need water, nesting places, cover, and plantings around the feeder. During the cold winter months they will need a place to keep warm and raise the young. Just think how nice it would be to have a different style birdfeeder near every window to your backyard. You can start your backyard birding in the winter from inside your nice warm house.
- Barbara E. Volkov