Tips on Using Platform Bird Feeders

A variety of different types of feeders can be used to attract our feathered friends, but to see the most species of birds, platform bird feeders should be used. Offering a bountiful buffet of foods and treats on its widely accessible base, there will be an amazing array of birds making their way to your yard.
 
One of the best features of platforms is that they offer a stable, flat surface on which birds can safely and easily land to eat. Filling these feeders is easy, as well; simply scatter a variety of seeds and nuts on the surface. The birds will handle the rest, pecking about on the surface as they pick out their favorite food sources. Different styles may be advantageous at attracting diverse types of birds. Some platform feeders are hung from tree branches or pole mounts, and will be more attractive to birds tending to be more shy and retiring. To have optimal viewing opportunities of the birds who visit the feeders, the platforms can be mounted on poles in mailbox style; scattered throughout the yard. A deck or patio can feature these types of feeders placed on corner poles to add more interest and bird watching enjoyment.
 
There are a few disadvantages to platform bird feeders that need to be considered. Cleaning the platforms will need to be done on a frequent basis due to the high traffic it will experience. Inclement weather is a threat to the food; high winds can easily scatter seeds, rain and snow can cake the food to the platform, hot summer sun can deteriorate and wither fruits or breads that are used as food. Squirrels and aggressive larger bird varieties may spend more time chasing away the smaller birds than actually feeding.
 
Homemade platforms are a simple matter to construct, eliminating the need to purchase expensive feeders. A flat, square wooden platform with raised edges on all sides and a wire coat hanger can form a hanging feeder; when fastened to a pole or fence, this same platform becomes a stable, permanent fixture. To help protect the platform surface from adverse weather, a sloped roof can be attached, but may affect the number of birds that visit the feeder.
 
Bird watching is a popular passive activity; and to attract the largest number of birds, platform bird feeders are the best choice. A wide variety of bird species will be at your disposal as you offer a diverse buffet of their favorite foods.