Tag Archives: bird feeders

It’s Time for the Birds

While the season of spring is generally the time that most of us think about birds (after all of the mostly silent winter, it is pleasant to wake up to bird call) I generally get ready for the birds in the fall. Here is why. One of the charming bits of the house we live in is the build in bird feeder that sits attached to our home outside of the dining room window. It is a large flat platform that spoils the efforts of all critters other than birds. Across from the window and feeder is a large pine … Continue reading →

Frugal Bird Feeding: Bird Feeders and Bird Houses

Frugal living is for the birds…too! My family and I love feeding the birds in our backyard. The kids have a lot of fun observing the birds behavior and identifying the different species. It has also been a great learning experience for them. So far, we’ve seen blue jays, woodpeckers, tiny finches, chickadees, morning doves, and some colorful songbirds with yellow heads that we haven’t yet identified. One of the things I noticed in the stores is how expensive good bird feeders are. I have been advised that I really should stay away from the less expensive feeders for a … Continue reading →

Birds: No Cages Required

When I was growing up, my family was very active and outdoor-oriented. They loved hiking in the mountains, visiting zoos, or trekking through state parks. My mom and grandma in particular, but even my sister, would often comment on birds we’d come across in the wild. I remember on more than one occasion pulling off to the side of the road so they could jump out and get a better gander at whatever large bird they may have spotted. (Usually falcons and hawks, but I do recall a buzzard or two causing a stir, I believe because they first mistook … Continue reading →

Recycling: More Useful Yard and Garden Items

Here are a few more ideas for handy items that you can make from things found in the recycling bin. Buckets Do you need to soak tools or paintbrushes? Cut the tops off plastic milk jugs (about half way down). Fill with degreaser or detergent and pop in tools to soak. These also work great as soap pails when giving the car or your patio furniture a good washing. Milk jug buckets also make good storage containers. Store rolls of weed-eating twine inside to keep them from unraveling, or place your garden trowel, gardening gloves, and other tools inside to … Continue reading →