Hanging bird feeders around your property allows you to view beautiful avian species up close. However, leaving any type of food outdoors can also have its drawbacks, and bird feeders could potentially do more harm than good. To prevent the need for wildlife removal among other mishaps, here are some reasons to think twice before you hang a bird feeder in your yard.

3 Compelling Reasons to Rethink Bird Feeders

1. They Attract Additional Wildlife

Birds come to feeders because they’re attracted to the scent of seed, but so are other wildlife species. In addition to pests such as rodents and insects, you might also attract larger creatures. Opossums, skunks, bears, coyotes, and raccoons are just some of the species that can make their way to your feeders. As they edge nearer to your home, they may also catch smells from indoors. You could find yourself calling for wildlife removal to eradicate rodents or predatory species from your house.

2. They Set Up Opportunities for Prey

In addition to worrying about wildlife removal to keep your home safe, you may also attract carnivorous species that prey on birds. Thus, by bringing the birds to your home, you may also set up the perfect opportunity for animals higher in the food chain to hunt them. Cats, hawks, coyotes, raccoons, skunks, and opossums are all known to prey on birds. Allowing avian creatures to find food naturally minimizes the odds of making them easy targets.

3. They Can Cause Health Issues in Birds

Finally, introducing human-supplied meals can also bring together avian species that wouldn’t normally interact, spreading disease among bird populations. Feeders can contribute to infections such as House Finch eye disease in birds, in addition to altering normal behavior patterns. Moreover, feeders hung too close to windows and glass doors could lead birds to fly into the glass, causing serious injury or death.

The team from A.S.A.P. Critter People understands the passion many Hamilton County, OH, residents have for the state’s diverse animal population, which is why they provide humane wildlife removal to keep both your home and living creatures safe. This full-service company also repairs entry points to prevent future issues from occurring. View their complete service area by visiting their website, and call (513) 941-0258 to speak with a team member.