FIG. 44.
FEEDING SHELVES AND SHELTERS.
Nesting boxes make their appeal to but a part of the birds of any community. These attract during the early spring and summer months. Many other species are worth having in our orchards and gardens for their songs and their activity in destroying insects and weed seeds. To these some other attraction than nesting boxes must be offered. Then again, many birds would spend a longer time with us if a certain food supply were assured them. A simple suet feeder is shown in Fig. [45]. The birds cling to the chicken wire while eating. A feeding box for seed-eating birds is given in Fig. [46]. Fig. [47] gives a shelf to be nailed to the sunny side of a building, while Fig. [48] shows a somewhat similar type to be fastened to a window sill, making it possible to observe the birds that come to dine. Birds that hesitate to come close to buildings may be attracted by the feeders set out in the open. Fig. [50] shows a feeder mounted on an iron pipe so it can be turned in any direction. This feeder has one end closed by a pane of glass, and is to be turned so that prevailing winds do not enter. Fig. [49] shows a feeding shelf for winter use which makes an acceptable robin nesting shelf in spring. In Fig. [53] is given a feeder mounted on a base with a vane so the adjustment takes place automatically. Figs. [51] and [52] show two food shelters considerably more difficult to construct. They have glass on all sides, and are open at the bottom so that birds can enter or leave at will. Fig. [30] shows a simple food shelter offering some protection against rain and snow, while a very attractive group of shelters are given in Figs. [54], [55], [56] and [57]. If you look closely you may see "Mabel" in the right hand feeder in Fig. [54]. The builder of these shelters found her so positive about her rights—since she discovered the food supply—that he has been obliged to put up the others to keep peace.
