Solar Birdfeeders
This is different idea for lighting the backyard. These
solar bird feeders are built a lot like
traditional feeders, and during the day will attract
your birds in the backyard. But during the day the
rechargeable batteries are being charged by the solar
cells on the top of the bird feeder, and at night power
small lights to add a nice accent to your yard.
There are a couple of different models of solar bird feeders.
The lighthouse solar feeder is a favorite, and has ample
space for a lot of seed. Some can double as a brd bath.
One advantage to using a solar powered light on a bird feeder
is that you tend to mount feeders relatively high so the
light works well, as opposed to some solar powered walkway
lights that are only a few inches off the ground. Some
features to consider on a solar bird feeder:
Replaceable batteries. Rechargeable batteries don't last
forever, so if you plan to spend a lot of money get ones you
can replace.
Mounting scheme is something else to consider. You may want
to pole mount your feeder.
Keep the solar panels clean and free of dirt or bird
droppings. Like any solar powered device, if the sun's rays
can't get to the solar panels, your
solar bird feeder won't work very well.