Additives for Wild Bird Feed that You Can Add

Today many populations of wild birds rely on bird feeders to provide them with food during various times of the year. In most cases this food is only a supplement of their natural diet of seeds, insects and berries. However, when food sources are scarce or have been destroyed by pollution, development or other problems, backyard bird feeders become the primary source of food and nutrients for birds. Since many birds are relying more on backyard feeders for their survival you need to think about what you are putting in your feeders.

Adding Calcium to Your Wild Bird Feed

One of the nutrients that many wild birds are not getting enough of is calcium. Calcium deficiencies in birds lead to fragile egg shells and high chick mortality rates. The problem of inadequate natural calcium carbonate has developed in response to acid rain. Acid rain is produced when air pollution produced by both manmade and natural sources interacts with rain. The air pollution lowers the pH level of the rain turning it to acid rain with a pH level of between 4.2 and 4.6. When acid rain hits the ground it dissolves the natural calcium carbonate that birds normally consume to get calcium.

To help your bird population get the calcium that they need all you have to do is add crushed egg shells to your wild bird feed. To do this you will want to take empty shells, wash them and bake them for a half an hour at 250 degrees F. Allow the shells to cool and then pulverize them. You can then mix the shells in with your bird feed or place them out in a dish.

Adding Protein to Your Wild Bird Feed

Protein is another nutrient that wild birds can have a hard time to find, especially during the winter months. You can help your backyard population of wild birds by adding protein in the form of mealworms to your wild bird food. You can add live or freeze dried mealworms to your bird feeders. You can also set out a plate of live worms for a special treat.

Adding Fat to Your Wild Birds' Diet

During the winter months birds need a little extra fat and protein to survive. You can help them out with these needs by replacing your wild bird feed with a suet feeder. Suet is made from special beef fat reserves found around major organs. This fat is rendered down, purified and packed in special feeders.

Adding Squirrel Repellent

Squirrels are a part of your backyard ecosystem, however, they can be very destructive and intrusive when it comes to your bird feeders. A simple way to keep them away from your bird feeders is to mix Cheyenne pepper in with your bird feed. The birds won't notice the addition, but the squirrels will avoid it like the plague.