Whenever I attach a new branch to my deck rail and then smear a little bark butter on it, you can bet that it will soon be a popular place to perch!
Here are nine fine posers who have taken a liking to the latest limb.
Now I should warn you, if you begin using this approach to attracting birds, you will find yourself looking at the scenery around you differently and may even hear yourself saying things like, “Now that’s a beautiful dead branch!” Or, you may find yourself pulling over to the side of the road to try and load a lovely limb into your vehicle, a behavior your friends and family might find strange, but no worries, I am here for you!
Kathy, I have been following your blog for about a year, and it really brightens my day. I am a birdwatcher and have had a backyard feeder for 40 years–in Texas and now in Washington DC.
I have never used bark butter. I have a LOT of squirrels in my urban back yard and have to use a squirrel proof feeder. I’d love to try the bark butter but assume the squirrels would get it. Do you have squirrels?
I do have a lot of squirrels and inevitably they steal some of the food that is meant for the birds. And they do like Bark Butter, but I add Texas Peter hot sauce to it to deter them. It doesn’t bother the birds in the least, but it’s a bit spicy for those rascally rodents!
And thanks for the kind words. 🙂
How do you attach the branches? And do the squirrels go after it too?
Good old fashioned bungee cords! And yes, the squirrels do like it, but I deter them by adding hot sauce. 🙂
Oh you are so wise!!!! I will be trying!
Great shots! I have been using bark butter for a couple years now. The birds absolutely love it. I put it on the side of a tree. I never even considered putting it on the end of a limb placed of optimal bird viewing. Thanks for the great idea!
You are most welcome! I hope it leads you to some great shots!
Wonderful portraits, Kathy. I’ve also found myself staring at branches thinking about how they would make good perches.
Beautiful Birds
Sensational group of friends you have made there, Kathy!
Thank you for this great idea, and for sharing your lovely photos. Life would be impoverished without our backyard feathered friends. Best, Tanja
You are most welcome. And thanks for stopping by! 🙂