from Bill at Bird Talk:

Sioux Falls,SD -
Which wild bird feed attracts more birds?
That?s the question the WBFI Research Foundation seeks to answer th
roughout
a three year, one million dollar study, aptly named Project WILDBIRD.
This landmark study is an unprecedented scientific investigation into the
feeding habits of wild birds across the United States and Canada. Comprehen
sive
research data generated by the study will provide invaluable insight and
guidelines for consumers regarding wild bird feed and feeder-type preferenc
es
during all seasons of the year in 13 eco-regions.
A United States Government survey conducted in 2001 reported that 54 millio
n
Americans spend over $3 billion annually feeding wild birds and other
wildlife. With wild bird feeding and watching one of the fastest growing ho
bbies in
North America, consumers simply want to know which feed attracts preferred
species.
"In order to determine which feed attracts more birds, we must also look at

the various feeder styles, geographical location and seasonal influences,"
according to George Petrides,Sr., Project Leader for the study. "What draws

birds to one feeder location in Virginia may not offer the same results for

feeders in Colorado."
Project WILDBIRD is a two-phase scientific study, and began September 22.
"The observational approach provides a snapshot of the birds that visit one
?
s backyard," according to Dr. David J. Horn, Ph.D, Principal Investigator f
or
the study. "It?s an ideal way for backyard birders to participate i
n the
study, while continuing to enjoy feeding and watching birds as they normall
y
do."
In the second phase, or experimental approach, participants will be given
feed and feeders and asked to monitor birds at feeders in a more structured

manner. "The experimental approach will allow us to answer important questi
ons
about feed and feeder preferences of wild birds using a more controlled
approach," stated Horn.
"At the conclusion of this study in 2008, we?ll have definitive ans
wers to
these questions: what are the feed and feeder preferences of wild birds, an
d
are those preferences the same across different regions and through various

seasons?"
"These are extremely important questions that consumers want answered. They

want to reduce wasted feed, and purchase those products that attract more
birds," stated Dick Hebert, President of the WBFI Research Foundation.
For more information on participating or contributing to Project WILDBIRD
visit www.projectwildbird.org .


If you have any questions about this study, or would like further
information, please contact:
Susan M. Hays, CMP/Executive Director
WBFI Research Foundation, Project WILDBIRD
Telephone: 888-839-1237
Fax: 605-275-6697
Email: _shays at wbfi.org_ (mailto:shays at wbfi.org)
Website: _www.projectwildbird.org_ (http://www.projectwildbird.org/)