We’re passionate about birds and nature. That’s why we opened a Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Shop in our community.
10143 Wornall Road
Kansas City, MO 64114
Phone: (816) 942-4887
Fax: (816) 942-4318
Email: Send Message
Store Hours:
Mon - Fri: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sat: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sun: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
7347 Quivira Road
Shawnee, KS 66216
Phone: (913) 962-0077
Fax: (913) 962-0035
Email: Send Message
Store Hours:
Mon - Fri: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sat: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sun: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Winter is fast approaching. As we are preparing our Thanksgiving feast, the birds are busy preparing for the cold weather ahead. You can make a huge difference in their lives by also offering them a feast. You will be rewarded with their presence all winter long.
Q) I would like to place a feeder on a window, but I’m not sure if that would be safe. What do you think?
A) Birds will come right to your window. Sometimes it takes a while for them to overcome their natural reluctance, so be patient. Don’t worry that a feeder on the window will cause birds to fly into the window. Birds fly into windows because they see the reflection of the sky and trees. Window feeders can help to break up that reflection.
Q) Where do birds sleep?
A) Before falling asleep, most birds seek shelter from predators and weather. This is vital to their survival because a sleeping bird is totally vulnerable to danger. Each species has a technique of locating shelter and this varies based upon options available in the environment. Cavity nesters (bluebirds, chickadees, titmice, wrens, woodpeckers and others), tend to roost (sleep) in enclosed areas such as bird houses, roosting pockets, tree hollows, caves or a culvert. Non-cavity nesters (blue jays, cardinals, native sparrows and others) frequently roost for the night in evergreen trees, a vine tangle or thick brush. At all times, it is most important that they remain concealed from owls, raccoons, cats and other predators.
Q) What is the lifespan of a bird?
A) The life of a bird is extremely difficult. Studies show that many birds will not survive their first year. As many as 2 billion birds are killed yearly in North America by pet and feral cats alone. If the birds can make it past the first year then their chance for a longer life improves considerably. The American Robin can live up to 12 years and the blue jay for more than 18 years. The Great Blue Heron and Canada goose can live for more than 23 years.
Q) I like to offer my birds water, but in the winter I have no way to keep it from freezing. Is there anything I can do besides changing out the water every few hours?
A) There is probably no better way to attract birds in the winter than by adding a heated birdbath. Not only will more birds visit, but you’ll get an even greater diversity of birds coming to your yard. Remember not all birds will eat from your feeders but ALL birds need water. Offering liquid water is the single most important resource you can give birds during the cold months. Purchase a quality bird bath heater (to be placed in your existing birdbath) or a heated birdbath (coils are encased in the bowl itself). The item should be thermostatically controlled so it automatically comes on when the air temperature is 40 degrees. All that you have to do is plug it into a grounded outlet and add fresh water. Now just sit back and enjoy the show.
Remember – Nature is not a place to visit. We live in it!
If you have any questions, just give us a call or better yet stop by one of the stores. Our Certified Birdfeeding Specialists will be glad to help you.
Doc & Diane Gover
Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Shops
