Some mistakes can cost birds their lives.

McCarthey Tyrrell shares six mistakes she sees people make when setting up and using their bird feeders.

Shelled seeds also wont sprout below the feeder.

Bird on bird feeder

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“In very cold climates birds become reliant on scarcer food sources.

Many decorative bird feeders dont come apart easily to clean out all the hard-to-reach places.

These feeders are also easy to disinfect if a sick bird appears at your feeder.

Keeping your feedersand bird bathscleaned regularly will ensure youre not spreading illness and disease amongst your local bird populations.

Spoiler alert: avoid the Pam-greased poles, slinkys, and other homemade obstacles.

For those concerned about deterring larger birds, McCarthey Tyrrell says not to worry.