Get a jump on spring!

How many of us are counting the days until spring arrives? Actually, for those of us in eastern Pennsylvania, it seems as though it is here already. When you see crocus and daffodils poking their heads above the ground, it's a good time to start spring-cleaning around your feeder stations.


Give your tube feeders a good shake to dislodge any compacted seed. Dump out any wet clumps or seed that has not been eaten for a few weeks.


Clean hulls off platform feeders and seed trays, and rake up accumulated hulls and other debris under feeders to give the grass a chance to recover. You may even need to move the feeder to another location nearby.


Disinfect the feeders by using a weak bleach solution (a half cup for every 2 gallons of warm water. Rinse very well and allow to dry thoroughly before refilling.

Whenever you clean or refill feeders, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterward.


Some of the most rewarding bird-watching in the backyard happens when the mating and nesting season starts. As birds look for nesting spots, having ample food on hand will make your backyard more attractive to them.


And don't forget your birdbath. How many of us put them away last fall when it was getting cold, with the promise to clean it when spring arrives. Now is the time! Hot soapy water and a good amount of elbow grease is the best cleaning technique. Rinse several times. Oh, and before you put your birdbath heater away for next winter, scrub it with a solution of white vinegar and water to remove mineral deposits.


Now, just sit back and watch the spring show!