What can be better than an all-year-round feeder? A bird table is certainly that. If you’re looking for a new bird table, then there’s a few things to think about.
The first point to make is that your bird table should be practical and (if wooden) made from FSC certified timber – a basic wooden tray, ideally with edges and drainage holes is perfect. Some people prefer to purchase one without a roof while others prefer a roof, to help keep the food dry. The table design itself shouldn’t be too complicated. After all, your garden birds are only really interested in the food that is on it. Secondly, check to see if the wood is smooth as any sharp edges can be a danger to birds’ feet. Never be tempted to buy a table that has a nest box in the roof. Encouraging birds to feed near to an occupied nest box is not a good idea also avoid thatched ones as you may find your lovely, thatched roof disappearing in spring as birds make their nests.
Where to site your table is very important, choose a quiet location, ideally near to the house so you can enjoy all the activity in comfort without disturbing your garden visitors. Try placing your table where the birds have a clear view of any predators approaching while they are trying to feed. It may help to site near a small bush or tree, at least 2-3 metres away, where birds can ‘queue’ to feed – and indeed escape to if they are frightened. Please be patient, it may take a few days before you see any birds on a new table. Once they have discovered the feeding station and they are confident that they can feed in safety, they should become regular visitors.
The Everyday Bird Table is the classic design which suits any style of garden. It’s made from 100% FSC wood and is easy to assemble. We promise you don’t have to be a whizz at DIY either it’s really very simple to put together.
If you want to invest in a high-quality bird table, then we have the Supreme FSC Bird Table available. Again, it’s made from 100% FSC treated timber, but this table features a large feeding area. It stands around 1.5 metres tall and is very eye-catching. Sometimes it’s worth spending just that little bit more for such a rewarding hobby.
Be aware that some infections of garden birds can cause severe and possibly fatal diseases in humans and can be carried by birds that show no sign of infection themselves. Personal hygiene when handling or cleaning bird tables must be paramount. If large numbers of birds visit your bird table, and we hope they do, then a change of feeding site is advisable from time to time.
If you can, on a daily basis, brush the surface of your bird table and dispose of any brushings hygienically. Bird tables should be cleaned regularly using a product like Safe 4 Disinfectant. These fantastic products are kind to birds and the environment too. They are ideal for cleaning not only bird tables but bird feeders and nest boxes as well.
Any uneaten or mouldy food should be disposed of as mouldy food can cause toxins if left discarded. Always use good quality food.
When cleaning anything of this nature our advice is to always use rubber gloves and do not take bird tables, bird feeders or bird baths into the house to clean. A bucket in your garden or outside space should be used instead to help prevent the spread of any infectious disease to either yourself or domestic animals.
Finally, please do not expect a wooden table to last indefinitely. As it ages, it may become difficult to clean, and any cracks and splits in the wood may be a hiding place for harmful bacteria. Once you see signs of decay maybe it’s time to buy a new one.
Bird tables broaden the appeal and advertise that your garden is a feeding hot spot where birds can gather to feed - so go on – treat you and your garden birds to a table and the whole family can enjoy the bird feeding spectacle.
Written by Angela
