For those of us who live in the soon-to-be-frozen North, our outdoor garden work should be just about over for this year. It's time to stock the birdfeeders and maybe even put out some extra special treats for our fine feathered friends. According to the National Wildlife Federation website, feeding wild birds is the second most popular hobby - next to gardening, of course!

The two most important things are commonsense. Keeping the feeders clean and setting them up in a place that is safe from prowling neighborhood cats or other predators.

Birdfeeders can be washed with hot water. Be sure to let them dry completely before adding the next batch of seed. Also be sure the seed is clean and dry. Use only fresh seed and watch for mold. Keep the ground or porch floor around the feeders clean by raking or sweeping up. Moving feeders around will help to avoid the problem of accumulated bird mess. Pay attention to the kind of seed blend you use, to be sure it is the right variety for your feeder and the kinds of birds that visit. Fillers and thin grains in a mix usually just end up littering the ground. Don't forget to keep ice and snow off the feeders. Always wash your hands after refilling or cleaning them.

To protect birds from predators, a good rule of thumb is to set up the feeding station at least 5 - 12 inches away from shrubbery. If possible, put the feeders 5 - 12 FEET away from trees, which is out of pouncing distance but near enough so they can fly to safety if threatened.