Do you feed or provide water for the local birds?

You’re not the only one. The Summer Report from the Australian Bird Feeding and Watering Study has just been released by Dr Gráinne Cleary who made some interesting observations:

• Providing food for birds is a very common activity in Australia with the data showing commercial seed is the main food type provided. 
• A significant reason why people provide food is because it brings them joy and happiness which comes from interacting our the amazing birds 
• The most common bird group visiting feeding areas are granivores (seed-eating birds). 
• The favourite birds to feed are magpies, parrots (especially king parrots) and cockatoos along with pigeons and doves, mainly crested pigeons. 
• Large nectivores (e.g.rainbow lorikeets and noisy miners) were
present when commercial nectar or home-made nectar was available, while small nectivores (e.g. new Holland honeyeaters) seem to prefer home-made nectar. 
• Insectivores were attracted to the presence of cheese (over meat!!) 
• omnivores were visiting feeding areas where bread was provided. 
• Both granivores and fruit-eating birds displayed a marked preference for commercial seeds over other food. 

You can download a copy at www.feedingbirds.org.au.