Rain can spoil birdseed

   A male goldfinch visits a nyjer feeder.  Photo by J.J. Meyer

Have you checked your bird feeders after the recent rain? The seed could be wet.

But you may be able to save it.  Simply spread the wet seed on a cookie sheet and place in the oven at a low temperature for about 10 minutes.  Stir the seed and cool.  Make sure it's completely dry before replacing it in the feeder.

If your seed is moldy, it's too late.  Moldy seed is not healthy for the birds.  And they're likely to reject it anyway.

Get ready for the rainy season ahead by purchasing rain guards or weather domes for your feeders.  Find them at nature stores such as Wild Birds Unlimited.

Happy Birding!
J.J.