Cleaning: When bird seed gets wet, either in a storage can or in the feeder and is allowed to sit for awhile, it will decompose or ferment, and become unsafe for birds to eat. Keep bird feeders free of spoiled, crusted seed by cleaning them periodically. Some PVC, plexiglass or plastic feeders and suet cages can be put in the dishwasher. Let feeders dry completely before refilling them.
See the Bird Feeder Accessories section of Yardener's Tool Shed for tools to help with this task.
Renovating: Wooden bird feeders are somewhat less durable than those made of plastic or PVC. Over time you may need to replace dowels that have been chewed by squirrels or a piece of glass or plastic that broke when the feeder fell to the ground. Most wooden feeders of good quality are made from naturally weather resistant wood such as redwood or cypress. Others may need a coat of exterior paint or varnish every few years. Do not paint the inside under any circumstances. If feeders have been unused for a period of time, beware. Wasps and hornets choose empty ones for nesting.
