If homeowners do not want to feed year-round, Brittingham suggests putting bird feeders out in October. Homeowners should feed through the winter and spring. May. Brittingham suggests placing a variety of feeder types to lure a wide range of bird species. Homeowners shouldn't feel the need to constantly refill their feeders when supply runs low. Brittingham says past research projects revealed that birds get about 20 percent of their food needs from bird feeders.
Feeders are a supplement to their diet.
Brittingham says many birds remain loyal to their favorite feeders, returning year after year. She emphasizes that homeowners should remember a few tips to keep birds coming back for more. Brittingham suggests hanging garden netting, which is fine enough to be nearly transparent, yet protects birds from injuries. If you're just starting to feed birds, I'd suggest buying a good field guide so you can identify the birds. You don't have to buy binoculars, but they do help you see details that you wouldn't normally get to see.