Recently we’ve been discussing the great American outdoor activity of bird watching. In addition to a sphere seed bird feeder (http://goo.gl/obiKPO), it makes sense to own a platform feeder like the Going Green Platform Bird Feeder.
Why own a platform feeder? Quite simply, it will attract more birds, and different varieties of birds. We have both types of feeder hanging in the same tree.
A platform feeder allows you to use different kinds of feed beyond seeds. We stock ours with suet nuggets and mealworms in addition to black oil sunflower seeds.
In my experience, woodpeckers love suet cakes and nuggets.
Cardinals, titmice, and nuthatches love black oil sunflower seeds.
Bluebirds love mealworms.
So what makes the Going Green Platform Feeder a winner?
First of all, it’s built to last.
It’s constructed from a rugged recycled plastic. The frame is screwed together and seems pretty much impervious to the impact of weather.
The floor of the feeder is made of powder-coated metal mesh, which will allow rainfall to easily pass through rather than to collect inside.
The cables and hanging hook are of similar tough build quality.
What’s not to like? Well, not much. I suppose the feeder could be a little larger, but personally I think the size is just about right. Our neighborhood birds sure seem to like it.
What about the neighborhood mammals? Well, I’m not sure Fort Knox is squirrel proof. The key is to hang the feeder in a place that’s difficult for squirrels to reach. You might also consider greasing a few limbs with WD-40 (and no I’m not kidding). Our solution is to place our feeders indoors at the end of the day.
When you consider the daily entertainment and educational value provided by birdwatching, it makes sense to own some well designed and well built feeders. Add this one to the “recommended” list.