From the dusty corner of the storage shed, two yellow-topped Duncraft feeders are dragged from their resting spot and hung on the branches of the maple tree. Settling into the canvas cover of a redwood framed chaise lounge, one can feel Spring continue forcing its way into the day. The day resists and seems to be looking back toward the memories of winter. The brisk air is warming, and the blue skies are overcoming shades of gray that held it captive for the last months. Suddenly the song of the small finch trickles through the air, and the day surrenders to the melody.

The female finches are not the flashy kind. Their dull olive green feathers pale in comparison to the bright colors their men wear like a pitcher’s baseball cap and breastplate. Still, they both sing a flashy show tune, so encourage them to stay by setting up the best bird feeder for these fellows.

Finches are known to be finicky eaters. They are vegetarians who, in the wild, forage for food on the ground, or in trees. They like very dry seeds and nuts, but also eat fruit and buds. The favorite finch seed used in tube feeders is nyjer seed, which has a very dark, thin shell and is packed with calories and oil, providing the birds with great source of nutrients and energy.

The good news is that they don’t demand a fancy serving tray; a simple tube bird feeder will do just fine. This bird station should, however, have an internal baffle system that helps the seeds drop into place equally at each opening. Since several birds will be eating at once, this feature is quite important.

The Duncraft tube bird feeder is ideal, and oh so simple. It’s a see-through plastic tube, covered on top and bottom with plastic, metal, or recycled wood. It has multiple openings (ports), for accessing food and many narrow rods where birds can balance while they munch. They are super easy to replenish with fresh seed.

Finches sometimes arrive on the scene with lots of their buddies in tow. Some outdoor food tubes have up to twenty perches that provide rest for those standing in line to eat. Others are designed with a thin, powered-coated wire that gently spirals around outside of the feeding source. These are attractive and practical for large flocks dining at the same time.

There are also wire framed tube stations that allow these sweet singing sopranos to hop inside to dine protected from the bigger birds that like to intimidate the smaller finches. Although the tube bird feeder is a simple concept, there are over ninety different designs of these Duncraft feeders to pick from. One is sure to bring these finches flocking, singing and staying awhile.

Marilyn’s Nursery and Garden Center proudly supplies all American made bird feeding products, including Duncraft feeders, Bird Quest, and several others including finch bird feeders. The plants they carry are carefully grown and cared for and they are experts on the flora and fauna in your area. (www.marilynsoutdoors.com)