NATIVE BIRDS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26775, 19 May 1948, Page 6

NATIVE BIRDS

Sir, —I would like to remind our native bird lovers that now is the time to commence feeding. Most people will have noticed how plentiful are the bell birds in nearly all suburbs, their song a joy to everybody. The berries are nearly finished,'and it is our privilege, and our duty, to provide them with the necessary food. Repeatedly I have been asked, “ What do they like? ” and “ What is the best method of serving it? ” Honey and water or golden syrup' and water—proportion, a large table spoonful to a teacupful—served in a "Bulldog” tobacco tin, is the complete answer. Punch in the lid of the tin holes the size of a threepenny piece, fill with the syrup, and place the tins in a tree or shrub not less than five feet from the ground, so that your guests cannot be molested by cats, which are their worst enemies. You will fi,nd this is so greatly appreciated that the tins will require to be filled twice daily—a little trouble perhaps, but are we not amply rewarded! In the absence of tuis, the only other birds who will drink from the tins are the wax eyes, who are so voracious, and numerous, that they are prone to take more than their fair share, but that cannot be avoided. The fantails and grey warblers will not go near the honey pots, they appear to live entirely on insect life. Scraps from the table are eagerly sought by starlings, blackbirds and sparrows, but our native birds will not touch this class of food. In conclusion, lam firmly of the opinion that the reason for the increase in native birds is the scarcity of grey owls, which', thanks to the good work of so many bird lovers, have been kept well in check; and furthermore, the young people of to-day have become so bird-minded that they will do anything in their power to protect the birds, and do not rob their nests, or otherwise harm these lovely creatures. —I am, etc., A. H. Fisher.