Gear Up
Proper tools make all the difference. Dedicate a set of cleaning supplies for your feeders to prevent cross-contamination:
- Use a toothbrush or bottle brush for scrubbing small areas.
- Always wear rubber gloves to protect yourself from bacteria.
Empty the Dregs
Old, leftover seeds or fruit can harbour harmful bacteria. To dispose of it, bury it in your compost pile or in an area far from your bird feeding station.
Take It Apart
If your feeder can be disassembled, separate all parts before cleaning. Modular feeders are easier to clean thoroughly.
Soak, Scrub, and Dry
- Soak the feeder in warm water to loosen hardened debris.
- Scrub with a gentle dishwashing liquid, ensuring all food residue and dirt are removed.
- Rinse thoroughly and allow the feeder to dry completely before refilling to prevent mould growth.
Garden Expert's Tips for Feeding Birds Safely
Choose a Safe Feeder
Opt for feeders with wide bases or multiple perching points to prevent overcrowding and reduce the risk of spreading disease among birds.
Offer Nutritious Food
- Avoid bread: It offers little nutrition and can harm birds.
- For introduced species like yellowhammers and finches, use Topflite Wild Bird Seed, which is rich in nutrients thanks to New Zealand’s mineral-rich soils.
- For nectar-feeding birds like tūī or bellbirds, provide Topflite Nectar, enriched with vitamins and minerals for optimal health.
Feed Seasonally
- Autumn and Winter: Provide extra food such as high-energy seeds, nectar, and fruit to help birds through colder months and prepare them for spring breeding.
- Spring and Summer: Reduce feeding as natural food sources become more abundant, ensuring birds remain reliant on their ecosystem.
Nectar Feeder Care
Clean nectar feeders regularly, as sugar water can ferment and grow dangerous bacteria if left for more than a few days.
Why Feed Birds?
Feeding local birds supports their survival, especially during challenging seasons, while creating opportunities to observe their fascinating behaviours up close. By using clean feeders and providing nutrient-rich food, you contribute to their well-being while fostering a stronger connection to the natural world.
Pop into your local garden centre for more tips and to grab your New Zealand-made bird feed from Topflite. Let’s keep our skies alive with the vibrant flurry of happy, healthy birds.
