This is the time of year in which the birds come back to your home in droves. Many bird enthusiasts actively attract birds through the use of birdhouses, bird feeders, and bird-baths. With the growing threat of an avian flu (bird flu) pandemic, it is wise to consider the threat that wild birds may bring to your home. Are you at risk?
The United States is preparing for the eventual spread of the avian flu to this country and has an aggressive interagency detection program led by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The process is one in which large numbers (over 10,000) of living and expired birds, especially those near the coast, are tested for the virus. In addition, the USDA has a "Biosecurity for the Birds" program, which provides important information about reducing the probability of birds becoming infected with the avian flu. This program develops practical, common sense management practices to keep the avian flu and other poultry diseases out of our commercial and backyard flocks.
The good news is that up to this point, the avian flu has not been detected in the United States, although some predict that it is only a matter of time before it affects this country. The avian flu is carried primarily by waterfowl and shore birds but is also found in domestic poultry such as chickens. Testing and anecdotal evidence shows with confidence that your desirable wild birds such as robins, cardinals, blue birds, woodpeckers, purple martins, and hummingbirds are unaffected.
The National Wildlife Center (under the Depart. of the Interior), has developed best practices to follow in order to reduce the risk of infection from any virus when handling wild birds. This recommendation is not because of the bird flu but a general recommendation for reducing the threat of other bird viruses or diseases such as West Nile.
The Center recommends that people handling wild birds:
1) Do not handle birds that are obviously sick or birds found dead,
2) Wear rubber or disposable latex gloves while handling (and cleaning) game, wash hands with soap and water (or with alcohol-based hand products if the hands are not visibly soiled), and thoroughly clean knives, equipment and surfaces that come in contact with game,
3) Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling or cleaning birds.
The recommendation is that you should definitely keep attracting wild songbirds to your home through the use of nesting boxes or houses, bird feed and seed stations, and birdbaths. At this time, there is NO threat for the avian flu, especially in North American songbird populations. Always be prudent and pay attention to the local news agencies for news about the spread of the bird flu AND other related illnesses such as West Nile.
Bird House Bird Feeder
A plain bird house will be the best choice for attracting birds. Avoid adding a perch beneath the entrance, this will only give predators a place attack. Also choose the proper size entrance hole for the variety of bird you are trying to attract.
Research and learn about the birds in your area before buying or building a bird houses. Different bird species will have different needs for the size and style of bird houses.
By knowing what type of birds are in your area you will be able to buy or build the right bird house that will meet their needs. Using cedar lumber will be a great choice of wood to build a bird house. This type of wood doesn't need painting or staining.
The size, style and size of the entrance hole will be determined by the type of bird you are trying to attract. Different birds will have different bird house needs. Find out the needs of the birds you are trying to attract by doing some research.
Although adding a perch might seem like a good thing, it is not required. In fact a perch will give predators a place to wait for the birds to come out.
Choose the location carefully. You don't want a place with to much human activity, but you will still want a location were you can observe and enjoy the bird activity. Also keep in mind how weather and predators will be affected by the location you choose. The most common places is hanging them on trees or mounting them to post. The height should be about three to ten feet, keep in mind you will need to clean the house, so choose a spot that will be safe to get to.
You will also want to provide water and food for the birds. Giving birds food, especially in the winter when food is hard to come by, is a must for attracting birds to your property. Birds will also need water for drinking and bathing, placing a shallow container with water will be ideal.
Study the bird species that are known in your area. By learning about the birds in your area, you will be able to provide them with the proper bird house and food. There are many websites that have lots of information on birds and plans for building bird houses.
Both Mike Kershaw & Phillip Sting are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Mike Kershaw has sinced written about articles on various topics from Family Travel, Bird Flu and Pets. Mike Kershaw owns and operates http://www.TheBirdWarehouse.com and can be contacted at admin@thebirdwarehouse.com. Mike is an expert on attracting wild birds and a. Mike Kershaw's top article generates over 1900 views. Bookmark Mike Kershaw to your Favourites.
Phillip Sting has sinced written about articles on various topics from Bird Flu, Health and Gardening. Build your own bird houses and bird feeders. See my bird house plans with pictures and instructions at my website. For some. Phillip Sting's top article generates over 5400 views. Bookmark Phillip Sting to your Favourites.
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