Bait for garden birds

[Matt Hunt]

Hi

I am setting up an old branch that I've drilled some holes in as a feeding station so I can photograph them there (I've got rather bored of 'bird + bird feeder pictures).

However, the feeders are of course more tempting to the birds. I feel it is unethical to remove the feeders to force them to the seed in the holes. Is there anything in particular that would really attract the birds? Maybe seeds embedded in lard / fat?

Thanks

Matt

[davecatt]

Go to your local fishing tackle shop and get some live maggots and/live meal worm, You need a branch large enough to cut some slots and insert a small plastic container with smooth sides to prevent the bait from escaping. Ideally you need several bait holes with just a few in each. Leave the birds to it for a couple of day topping up regularly. You could also try dry meal worms but the live bait is bound to be more successful in attracting the birds.
Dave

[Geoff F]

My birds congregate in an orderly queue on nearby trees/shrubs before making a quick dash for the birdtable which gives the opportunity for some natural backgrounds.

[pete-c]

Matt

Try putting some branches or twigs near the feeders. They will perch on them before going to the feeder.

Pete

[BillyPilgrim]

Peanuts and/or peanut butter always seem to work for me.

[Stevelphoto]

Originally Posted by davecatt

Go to your local fishing tackle shop and get some live maggots and/live meal worm, You need a branch large enough to cut some slots and insert a small plastic container with smooth sides to prevent the bait from escaping. Ideally you need several bait holes with just a few in each. Leave the birds to it for a couple of day topping up regularly. You could also try dry meal worms but the live bait is bound to be more successful in attracting the birds.
Dave

Good advice - but I remember reading that you shouldn't offer maggots to birds (something to do with the fact they are fed on meat I think).

[yorky]

Quite true Steve and they may also have been treated with a coloured dye. Stick to mealworms please.