The first bird feeders were very simple. They were probably similar to platform feeders. Bird food, usually table scraps, was put on a flat surface and left for the birds to eat. That simple practice has grown into a multi-million dollar industry providing us with a whole host of choices when shopping for feeders.
When choosing a feeder you need to know the feeding habits of the wild birds you are trying to attract. Most birds that visit your feeders are seed eating birds. Other birds, such as hummingbirds, have more specialized needs. They require a feeder designed to dispense artificial nectar. If you take some time to learn about the wild birds in your area, it will make choosing a feeder easier.
The largest selection of feeders on the market are designed to dispense bird seed. Other feeder designs include
You can buy wooden bird feeders, metal feeders or plastic feeders, and even feeders that are made from a combination of all three materials.

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