It's spring: Time to take down that bird feeder
Spring provides a natural buffet for birds.
Spring is here, and with it, plants and insects are back on the scene.
That's great news for birds, which have fewer food options available during the winter months.
It's true: A properly-maintained feeder can provide birds with a boost during colder, darker weather. But now, it's time to put that feeder away, experts advise.
Why should I pack up my bird feeder in spring?
Birds aren't the only animals interested in your bird feeder. While that's true year-round, spring is when some animals awaken from hibernation.
Alberta officials, for example, recently issued a province-wide bear advisory warning residents that leaving food outside, including bird seed, elevates the risk of a bear wandering onto your property. That's especially true in spring when many plants haven't reached peak bloom.
Another thing to consider: Birds love to dine on insects, making them less likely to touch the seed in your feeder, so it probably won't be eaten as quickly as in winter.
When bird seed sits untouched for a prolonged period in heat and humidity, it is prone to turning mouldy, which can make birds sick.
Want to learn another way to help keep birds safe this winter? Watch the video below.
Header image: Cheryl Santa Maria for The Weather Network/Canva Pro.