Tricks For Hand Feeding Wild Birds

Feed the birds; get them used to coming to your yard to eat.
Put seed out at a time of day that you will try hand feeding...it helps if they are a little hungry when you try.
Prepare:
- Wear warm comfortable clothes & hat that are washable, and comfortable shoes.
- If you use a chair or stool, leave it in place all the time so the birds will already be used to it.
- Confine your pets; My cats expected me to give them any birds that I catch.
Remove the feeder, put seed in one or both hands and hold your hands close to where the feeder usually hangs. (I use one hand so I can alternate them & keep one in a pocket for warmth.)
It helps to have a tree or schrub nearby so the birds can sit and check you out before they come.
MAJOR TIP: Do NOT move. The birds will be frightened off with movement. As they get used to this activity, movements will be less critical.
MAJOR TIP: They can see your EYES move. Stare at the ground, keep ypur eyes closed, or wear sunglasses. They are creatures that are preyed upon and readily notice when someone's attention is on them. Again they will get used to you and when one comes to your hand, you can slowly move your eyes to look at it.
Stand quietly and wait. I was often out there 20-30 minutes, sometimes without success. Listen to their fussing and their wing sounds as they approach.
MAJOR TIP: It takes time and repetition to teach wild birds that it is ok to eat from your hand. However, I noticed that some of them remembered the second and following years. I say the second year because they will only come when they are hungry in winter (they can find food on their own in the summer and will not risk getting close to you).

Try it and Enjoy!