In our January/February 2011 issue, Tool Shop columnist Veronica Lorson Fowler gave advice on which types of feeders (and food) attract which birds. Here are some more tips to keep your feathered friends happy, healthy, and well-fed.

After the party
Once your birdfeeders are set up and birds are feeding, there’s some follow-up care.
     ● Keep feeders clean. Once a month or so, clean with a solution of one part chlorine bleach to nine parts water. This prevents the transmission of disease—which is not uncommon when birds are congregating in such a tight space.
     ● Change seed regularly. Remove and replace seed if it gets wet, so it won’t rot. Also replace seed if it shows any signs of mold or mildew.
     ● Don’t fret if the food runs out. Birds can move on to other food sources, even in winter. Feeders simply supplement natural sources.

Squirrel safeguards
Watching the antics of squirrels as they find new and inventive ways to get to a birdfeeder can be almost as fun as watching the birds themselves. But these furry invaders also go through a lot of expensive seed and scare away hungry birds.

The best way to avoid squirrels is to place feeders on a pole in an open area. The feeder must be at least 5 feet off the ground and as far as possible from your house and trees, since squirrels can jump 6 feet or more.

Also check out squirrel-proof feeders that tip or collapse when squirrels jump on them, though squirrels are very good at hanging on. Also useful are squirrel baffles, cone-shaped pieces that prevent squirrels from climbing poles and sliding down ropes and wires.