Week 6 · Family project

Feed the locals carefully

Edible Landscapes

Supplementary feeding helps birds in harsh snaps — and teaches children seasonal cycles. Use untreated timber, roofed platform feeder or hanging mesh fat-ball holder, placed where cats cannot ambush. Clean weekly; mouldy seed harms birds you meant to help.

Do not feed bread or milk. Commercial wild bird mix or homemade fat balls (suet, seed, no salt) suit tūī, waxeye, and sparrows where present. Check Predator Free NZ guidance — feeders should not increase rat visits; raise off ground and use baffles if needed.

Build a platform feeder

  1. Cut base with drainage gaps

    Slatted floor so rain drains — wet seed rots.

  2. Add roof overhang

    Keeps seed drier; sides low enough for birds, high enough to shed rain.

  3. Hang or pole-mount safely

    Two metres from cat cover; stable hook or predator baffle on pole.

  4. Stock and maintain

    Small amounts often; scrub with hot water monthly.

Measure twice — wobbly feeders spill seed and attract rodents.

Keep a tally chart of species seen — link to school science or iNaturalist NZ if children are keen. Photograph from window to avoid disturbing feeding.