A variety of feeders of different kinds should be used for attracting and feeding a wide variety of species. As for the food itself, bird seed is still popular, but fruit, suet, peanut butter, nectar, and mealworms are also great choices. If you want to attract a specific type of bird, though, there is a specific type of feeder and food that each species favor.

When placing your feeders, it's recommended that you pick a spot that can be seen while indoors, yet close to bushes or trees so that the birds can take flee to safety if danger should come around. Place the feeders for smaller birds in a separate area from the feeders for larger birds. Doing so will allow the smaller birds to enjoy their food in peace, and not have to compete with the other, bigger ones. They will appreciate you for it and will reward you by more frequent visits.

If you place your seed birdfeeders near or within a garden area, you can have a problem with these seeds sprouting! Now, some people may not like the idea of pulling out sprouting plants, especially if they have a well-manicured garden. If so, they can choose to get shelled seeds instead. They will also have the bonus of not having to deal with discarded shells, although a down side of the shelled seed is that is will mold faster. Some people may just let the seeds sprout, (sunflower seeds for example) growing a natural sunflower jungle for the birds.

I have seen some bird feeding stations that have long branches along with the feeders; these are very nice. Branches can be wired or tied to the feeder poles or can be pushed into the ground, thus adding some helpful perches for the birds to sit. Some people also use these branches to hang pieces of fruit, while others grow vines up the branches. Vines are useful for adding a decorative touch as well as attracting insects for birds. If you want to use vines, though, use red trumpet-shaped flowering vines to attract hummingbirds and provide natural nectar.

A great focal point for your bird feeding station, if you can find one, would be a dead tree (or snag), with the dangerous limbs removed. The top of the tree can be used by woodpeckers and other insect feeders, while the other feeders can be hanged on the lower branches. However, do not mount or hang nest boxes on a snag that is used as a feeding station, as parent birds do not feel safe with lots of other bird activity around their little ones.

One critical ingredient in having a good bird feeding station is having a water source for the birds to drink and bathe. But do not put this bird bath or pond too close to the feeders, though. Aside from the fact that preening birds prefer some peace and quiet while arranging and drying their feathers, birds will avoid baths that have lots of other activity around them. Lastly, plant some flowers and plants near the bird feeding station to provide nectar and seeds for your visitors. Zinnias, coneflowers, and sunflowers are good choices. Birds will devour these seeds, especially during the autumn season.