SOME PROS AND CONS ON BACKYARD FEEDING
Of course we feed birds for our enjoyment and benefit, not theirs. But
backyard bird feeding, like whale watching and ecotourism, heightens
appreciation and sensitivity to birds and wildlife. It helps us build a
powerful constituency for birds and wildlife. The vast majority who say
they are bird watchers seldom go on local field trips. But they are
important allies and supporters when it comes to related programs and
legislation. So are the businesses and manufacturers who depend on the
revenues. It is naive to think that discouraging people from feeding birds
will accomplish anything except to undermine support for wildlife
preservation and habitat restoration. Certainly there are situations where
we "love our birds to death." But complacency is a far bigger problem.
Gene Bullock
Kitsap Audubon
Poulsbo