Optimal Placement for Bird Feeders: A Complete Guide
Intro
Setting up bird feeders in your backyard can be a rewarding experience, not just for you but for the beautiful array of feathered visitors that can bring a yard to life. However, putting out a feeder and hoping for the best is not quite enough. It’s about making the right choices, understanding what drives the birds, and figuring out how to set them up for optimal viewing.
This guide focuses on how to strategically place bird feeders so you can maximize your birdwatching experience. There’s a lot to consider here: bird behavior, environmental factors, feeder types, and more. The end goal? Attracting more birds while ensuring their safety. Let’s dig into the details.
Design Inspirations
When it comes to enhancing your yard with bird feeders, aesthetics can play an important role. After all, we want to see those birds swoop in, but we also want our garden to look sharp.
Trending Styles
Bird feeders today come in an array of designs that reflect both functionality and style. You’ll find cutesy, rustic models that fit right into a country garden as well as sleek, modern choices that can complement contemporary landscaping. Some options include:
- Hanging Feeders: These can be fashioned from wood, metal, or even recycled materials to suit any yard theme.
- Ground Feeders: For those birds that prefer to dine closer to the earth, these feeders can look like decorative trays or even stone art.
- Window Feeders: Made from clear plastic, they bring birdwatching to a whole new level, providing an up-close experience.
Choosing the right style not only attracts birds but also presents a unique opportunity to demonstrate your taste as a homeowner.
Color Palettes
Color often influences bird behavior, as certain hues can attract different species. Bright colors generally appeal more to insect-eating birds, while muted tones can provide a more subtle approach for seed lovers. Consider these aspects when selecting feeder colors:
- Bright reds and yellows can attract hummingbirds.
- Earth tones tend to blend in and might be less conspicuous, making it easier for seed-eating birds to feel safe while feeding.
Experiment with combining colors, but aim for a balance; you wouldn’t want the feeder to look out of place in your lovely yard.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Caring for bird feeders is not just about filling them with food; it also involves ensuring the health and safety of the birds. Let's cover some essential routines to keep in mind.
Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
- Spring: Check for any wear and tear from winter, replace old feeders, and ensure they are clean before the birds return.
- Summer: Keep track of food levels; avoid letting seeds get too moist. Regular refills are necessary.
- Fall: Prepare for the migration season by providing a diverse selection of seeds.
- Winter: Clean feeders often to prevent mold and ensure they remain accessible during snowy spells.
Cleaning and Organization Tips
- Empty feeders regularly and wash them with hot, soapy water to avoid bacterial growth. Rinse well.
- Store birdseed in airtight containers to keep it fresh and prevent infestations.
"A clean feeder attracts more birds and keeps them healthy. A little upkeep goes a long way."
Maintaining your bird feeders is crucial not only for their lifespan but for the well-being of the birds that visit.
By following these ideas on design, placement, and maintenance, your backyard can transform into a haven for birds, offering beauty and relaxation during your moments of observation.
Understanding Bird Behavior
Understanding bird behavior is a cornerstone of successful bird feeding and attracting these beautiful creatures to your yard. Without this knowledge, even the most lavish feeder setup might go unnoticed by local birds. Their feeding patterns, preferences, and natural instincts influence how best to position your feeders.
The Nature of Bird Feeding
Birds, like people, have distinct dining preferences that vary not just among species but also depending on the time of year and availability of food sources. Understanding that many species have unique feeding methods can inform your choices. For instance, sparrows are ground feeders, while finches are often found clinging to branches.
Moreover, many birds have specific diets. Seeds, suet, fruits, and nectar cater to different species. Selecting the right food can make your feeder a hotspot. But it’s crucial to note that birds also look for safety and comfort. You may find that birds are more likely to come to feeders placed near protective cover like shrubs or trees, which offer a quick escape from predators.
Common Feeding Habits of Local Birds
Bird species in your area have their routines, shaped by habitat, migratory patterns, and seasonal changes. Here are some behavioral traits to consider:
- Feeding Times: Most songbirds feed in the early morning when insects are active and afternoon when the weather is milder. Providing food during these peak times enhances your chances of attracting them.
- Group Feeding: Some species, like chickadees and blue jays, often feed in flocks. This behavior can lead to a more lively feeder experience if placed in an open area where they feel safe to gather.
- Preferred Food Types: Research suggests that local birds have strong preferences. For example, woodpeckers are drawn to suet feeders, while hummingbirds favor nectar. Tailoring your feeder offerings can optimize visiting chances.
"Knowing what local birds prefer and when they prefer it is like setting a dinner table according to each guest's tastes. It makes all the difference in the world."
Types of Bird Feeders
Understanding the different types of bird feeders is fundamental for anyone keen on attracting avian guests to their backyards. Not every feeder suits every type of bird, and some feeders offer specific advantages that can enhance your birdwatching experience. Choosing the right feeder not only affects which birds are drawn to your yard but also influences how often they visit and what types of food you can provide. In this section, we will explore several common types of bird feeders, each designed with unique features tailored to various birds' preferences and feeding habits.
Hopper Feeders
Hopper feeders resemble small houses and are designed to hold a substantial amount of seed, making them a practical choice for bird lovers who want to minimize refilling. These feeders have an open top that allows birds to perch and access the food within.
One of their main benefits is that they can attract a wide variety of birds, from finches to cardinals. Birds feel secure while feeding since they can perch safely, giving them a sturdy base for feeding. Plus, the design helps keep seeds dry and protects them from the elements.
However, it is important to regularly clean the feeder, as the seeds can spoil or attract unwanted pests if left too long. Position the feeder in a place where birds can both feed comfortably and take off without a hitch, away from tall grass or shrubs that might hide predators.
Tube Feeders
Tube feeders are perhaps the most versatile when it comes to attracting specific types of birds. They typically consist of a cylindrical tube with small feeding ports along the sides. Because of their shape, they limit access to larger birds while providing an abundant feeding station for smaller species like chickadees and goldfinches.
These feeders can come with built-in perches, making it easy for birds to rest while they enjoy a meal. They are also excellent for various seeds, such as thistle or sunflower, which can be an irresistible treat for many small birds. Keeping tube feeders clean is crucial to prevent mold and disease— just a gentle wash with soapy water can do the trick. Hang them in open spaces for maximum visibility and excitement.
Platform Feeders
Platform feeders are quite literally flat surfaces where seeds can be scattered or placed for birds to enjoy. This type is favored by larger birds, such as doves and jays, as it offers ample space to perch and feed comfortably.
The flexibility in design allows for a variety of seed types and even fruits if the mood strikes your winged visitors. Moreover, platform feeders can be placed on the ground as well, appealing to ground-feeding species like sparrows or even squirrels, who can be amusing to observe. Make sure to construct a roof or use a mesh covering to protect the seeds from rain and wind—keeping everything dry can significantly enhance the feeder's utility. These feeders can be quite visible, nestled comfortably among shrubs or even near a window for close-up observation.
Suet Feeders
Suet feeders are specialized options designed to hold rendered animal fat, which is a high-energy food source especially popular among woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other insectivores. There are various forms of suet feeders, from cages that hold blocks of suet to those that provide a mesh surface for birds to cling onto easily.
Suet is particularly important in winter months when natural food sources are scarce. It plays a significant role in bird energy needs, given the harsh conditions they face. Ensure your suet feeders are clean and, ideally, sheltered from direct sunlight to prevent the fat from melting too quickly. They can be placed on trees or poles, giving birds the security they desire while feeding.
In summary, selecting the right feeder is critical for attracting a diverse array of birds to your yard. Each feeder type brings unique advantages, and understanding these can empower enthusiasts, enabling a rich and rewarding birdwatching experience.
By carefully considering which feeders suit your needs—and the needs of the bird species you wish to attract—you can create a haven that delights both you and your feathered friends.
Choosing the Right Location
Selecting the right spot for bird feeders is more than just a quaint idea; it’s crucial for attracting and sustaining a variety of avian visitors. A well-placed feeder can become a bustling hub of activity, turning a quiet yard into a lively avian observatory.
When considering the location, there are several elements to keep in mind: safety, visibility, and convenience. Each factor plays a significant role in making your feeding station effective and enticing for local birds.
Proximity to Shelter
Birds are inherently cautious creatures. Having shelter nearby—be it shrubs, trees, or any kind of dense cover—offers them a sense of security as they feed. Such hiding spots provide refuge from potential predators, which is a vital consideration for species that may be vulnerable to hawks or neighborhood cats. Keeping feeders within three to five feet of dense greenery can encourage birds to visit without fear.
It's also important to consider the types of shelter available.
- Shrubs and Bushes: These can be the perfect hiding spots for smaller birds like finches or sparrows.
- Larger Trees: These cater to larger species, giving them a solid perch to watch the area.
Placing your feeders near such shelters ensures that birds can dart to safety while keeping their eyes peeled for food.
Distance from Windows
One aspect that’s often overlooked is the location of windows. Birds often misjudge glass, leading to unfortunate collisions. As such, feeders should be positioned at least thirty inches away from windows whenever possible to minimize the risk of accidents.
If a bird feeder is going to be placed closer to glass—perhaps because it's on a porch or deck—consider using some options to make the glass visible:
- Window Decals: Simple stickers can alert birds to the presence of glass.
- Netting Screens: A mesh can soften the impact if a bird does fly too close.
An additional benefit of placing feeders at a safe distance from glass is that it allows for better observation without causing the birds stress.
Accessibility for Birdwatching
For homeowners looking to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature from the comfort of their living rooms, the accessibility of your feeders can greatly influence your experience. Feeders should be easy to spot from common areas of the house, especially those frequented by bird enthusiasts.
When designing your yard, consider these factors:
- Viewing angles: Position the feeders where you can have a direct line of sight without obstructions.
- Comfortable viewing spots: A well-placed bench or seating area can enhance your experience, allowing for longer observation periods.
A strategically placed bird feeder can transform an ordinary yard into a nature lover's paradise, drawing a colorful cast of feathered friends right to your window.
Environmental Considerations
When placing bird feeders, paying attention to environmental considerations can be the difference between an inviting space for feathered friends and a futile endeavor. Factors such as sunlight exposure, wind strength, and water accessibility play crucial roles in attracting and retaining birds. Recognizing these elements not only fosters a better experience for birdwatchers but also promotes the well-being of the birds themselves. So, let’s dive into the specifics behind each of these three concerns.
Sunlight and Shade
Sunlight is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can make seeds appealing to birds because they tend to be more active under the light. However, too much sun can also spoil the food or make the feeder a scorching pit for birds. If a feeder is far too exposed, seeds can clump together in the heat, leading to spoilage. Therefore, a balance is key.
It’s good practice to place feeders where they can benefit from both sunlight in moderation and some strategic shade. Some birds, like the American Goldfinch, prefer sunny locations, while others, such as the Mourning Dove, favor shaded areas. Aim to locate your feeders near trees or tall plants that naturally break the harsh sun. A couple of evergreen shrubs or a small tree can offer just the right cover, keeping the food fresh and welcoming.
Wind Protection
Wind can frustrate birds to no end. Strong gusts make feeding difficult and could even send lighter seeds flying away from the feeder. It’s essential to consider where prevailing winds come from—generally, they blow from the west or north in many regions. By placing the feeder on the opposite side of these windy directions, birds can feed without battling the weather.
Another effective strategy involves using natural windbreaks. Dense foliage, fences, or even tall buildings can provide the necessary protection. Placing a feeder near such barriers can help birds feel secure while they dine. Plus, many often prefer a sheltered spot for feeding, allowing them to escape quickly if a predator appears.
Water Accessibility
Just like humans, birds also need easy access to water. A great way to enhance your feeder setup is to position a birdbath nearby. This not only provides essential hydration but also attracts birds drawn to water sources. Even if they're primarily drawn to feeders, having water can encourage more frequent visits.
Keep in mind that the bath should be shallow, around an inch deep, with uneven surfaces to facilitate easy perching. Also, consider placing some rocks or pebbles in the waterborne area. This can create spots for birds to land and drink comfortably.
"A thoughtful combination of food, water, and shelter invites birds to stay a while longer, allowing homeowners to experience lively avian showdowns."
Overall, by considering sunlight and shade, wind protection, and water accessibility, you’re setting the stage for an engaging and fulfilling experience for both the birds and yourself. The right environmental conditions can lead to truly memorable moments as you watch vibrant birds come and go. Remember, a little foresight goes a long way in turning your backyard into a bird-watching paradise.
Seasonal Adjustments
Understanding how seasonal changes impact bird feeding is essential for anyone looking to make the most of their birdwatching experience. Birds are creatures of habit, and as the seasons shift, so do their feeding behaviors and preferences. Adjusting your strategies accordingly not only provides our feathered friends with the nutrition they need but can also enhance the variety of species visiting your feeders. It’s all about timing and adaptability, making sure you have the right approach at the right moment.
Winter Feeding Strategies
During the winter months, food becomes scarce for birds. This is the time when they truly depend on feeders to survive. To cater to their needs effectively:
- Choose high-fat foods: Options like suet and black oil sunflower seeds are excellent choices. These foods provide the energy birds need to stay warm.
- Consider heated feeders: If your area gets particularly icy, installing heated feeders can be a game changer. Birds appreciate having access to unfrozen food throughout the harshest months.
- Fill feeders more frequently: Check your feeders regularly to ensure they are stocked. Birds establish routines, and if they find empty feeders, they might not return.
In winter, a well-placed feeder can be a lifeline, not just a luxury.
Spring and Summer Changes
As spring arrives, migratory birds return, and their dietary preferences start to vary. Transitioning your feeding methods will help attract a wider variety of species:
- Switch to lighter foods: Birds start eating insects and bugs during this period, so consider incorporating mealworms or using feeders that allow them to perch easily.
- Adjust feeder locations: In warmer months, you may want to relocate feeders to provide more shade. Birds often look for cooler spots to feed in the heat.
- Plant flowers: Native plants can supplement feeder offerings as they bloom throughout spring and summer. Birds like hummingbirds are particularly drawn to bright, flowering plants, so introducing options like bee balm or trumpet vine can create a more enticing environment.
"Hanging your feeders next to blooming plants can create a vibrant tapestry that attracts both birds and the human eye."
Overall, staying flexible and responsive to seasonal shifts is vital to enhancing your backyard birdwatching experience, making your outdoor space a welcoming haven for all kinds of avian visitors.
Maintaining Feeders
Maintaining your bird feeders is fundamental to providing a safe and welcoming space for our feathered friends. Not just a matter of aesthetics, proper maintenance ensures that the feeders are functional and hygienic, ultimately enhancing the birds' feeding experience and improving the likelihood of their return. A clean and well-stocked feeder acts like a beacon, guiding various species to your garden. Regular upkeep helps prevent the spread of disease among birds and curbs unwanted visits from pests.
Regular Cleaning
Cleaning bird feeders is an essential routine that every enthusiast should integrate into their schedule. Over time, old food, droppings, and moisture can create a hazardous environment for birds. For instance, moldy seeds can lead to severe respiratory problems for our avian visitors. To ensure their safety, feeders should be cleaned every two weeks, or more frequently if there’s a noticeable mess.
To clean a feeder effectively:
- Disassemble the Feeder: Remove all food remnants and disassemble parts if possible.
- Use Hot, Soapy Water: Scrub surfaces with a mixture of water and mild detergent, or consider using a vinegar solution. Avoid bleach, as its residue can be harmful.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure no soap or cleaning products remain, as birds are sensitive to chemicals.
- Dry Completely: Allow all parts to air dry before refilling them with food.
Keeping your feeders clean not only prevents the spread of disease but also attracts more birds, enhancing your chances of enjoying their beautiful visits.
Refilling and Monitoring Food
Feeding birds isn't a set-it-and-forget-it affair. Continual monitoring of your bird feeders is crucial to maintain an inviting atmosphere. Different species have varying preferences and feeding habits that are intertwined with the seasons. During periods of high activity, like spring and autumn migrations, your feeders may deplete quickly.
A good practice for refilling involves checking the feeders daily, especially in busy times. Make sure to fill them with appropriate food for local species—sunflower seeds for finches, suet for woodpeckers, and nectar for hummingbirds. Not only does this encourage frequent visits, but it also facilitates healthier feeding practices, as fresh food ensures birds get vital nutrients.
Consider some tips to improve this aspect of maintaining feeders:
- Use a critter guard: To minimize feed spillage and prevent other animals from snacking on bird food.
- Keep a log: Documenting what types of birds visit and when can help you understand patterns in feeding, ensuring you always have the right seed mix available.
- Focus on high-traffic times: Mornings and late afternoons typically see the most activity, so aim to ensure feeders are well-stocked during these periods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When setting up bird feeders, knowing pitfalls is just as crucial as knowing best practices. Making certain mistakes can deter birds from visiting, affect their safety, and diminish your enjoyment in observing them. Understanding these missteps not only enhances your birdwatching experience but also contributes to the well-being of local wildlife.
Placing Feeders Near Predators
One of the cardinal sins in bird feeding is placing the feeders too close to potential predators. This includes not just common culprits like cats, but also hawks, raccoons, and even snakes. When birds are constantly on high alert, their feeding habits become erratic, which can discourage them from visiting altogether. If a feeder is within striking distance of a tree branch where a hawk could perch, or anywhere a neighborhood cat could slink in undetected, you're effectively putting the birds at risk.
To mitigate this risk, consider:
- Distance: Place feeders at least 10 feet away from structures and shrubs where predators could hide.
- Visibility: Opt for open areas that give birds a clear view of approaching dangers.
- Near Cover: While keeping them away from direct predator access points, you may want placing feeders near dense, thorny bushes for birds that need a quick escape.
Placing feeders wisely can mean the difference between a bustling bird haven and an empty yard.
"Safety is the absence of danger, while presence of food is a catalyst for life."
Ignoring Seasonal Behavior Changes
Birds are not static; their habits shift with the seasons, and ignoring these changes is another common blunder. For instance, during migration periods, different species come and go, seeking out food sources that align with available seasonal offerings. Ignoring this dynamic can lead to missed opportunities in attracting various birds throughout the year.
During the colder months, birds might require high-energy foods, such as suet and mixed seeds. In contrast, spring and summer could see a shift towards nectar-rich products for species like hummingbirds.
Thus, paying attention to seasonal behavior can optimize your feeding strategies. Here are some adjustments:
- Winter: Fill feeders with sunflower seeds, millet, and specific suet mixes that appeal to winter birds like chickadees and woodpeckers.
- Spring: Swap in nectar feeders for your hummingbird visitors, and start including mealworms for insect-eaters.
- Fall: As insects die off, offer high-fat options again, preparing for the incoming winter population.
Overall, adapting based on seasonal shifts enhances your backyard's biodiversity and makes for a continually engaging birdwatching experience.
Enhancing the Bird Feeding Experience
When it comes to attracting birds to your yard, simply placing a feeder isn’t quite enough. It’s crucial to think about how the entire experience can be made more appealing, not just for the birds but for you as observer as well. The natural environment plays a significant role in determining how successful your feeding efforts will be. Birds are creatures of habit and prefer settings that not only provide sustenance but also safety and comfort.
Utilizing Native Plants
Native plants are like a warm welcome mat for birds; they offer an ecosystem that feels familiar and safe. By incorporating these plants into your landscape, you create a sustainable habitat that harmonizes with local wildlife. Here are some benefits and considerations:
- Food Source: Native plants often produce seeds, fruits, and nectar that numerous bird species rely on. These natural food sources can supplement what you provide in feeders, enhancing the attractiveness of your yard.
- Shelter: Plants create a protective environment that allows birds to feel safe from predators. Dense shrubs, for example, can serve as excellent hiding spots during their foraging moments.
- Local Adaptation: Being part of the local ecosystem, these plants are well-suited to the climate, soil types, and conditions of your area. Thus, they generally require less maintenance and are less susceptible to pests and diseases.
To determine which plants might suit your yard best, researching local flora or consulting with native plant societies can provide valuable insights.
Creating a Bird-Friendly Landscape
Designing a bird-friendly landscape is not just about planting a few trees and calling it a day. It takes thought and effort to bring about a genuine haven for feathered friends. A few pointers include:
- Diversity is Key: A mix of trees, shrubs, and flowering plants tends to attract a diverse range of bird species. Different birds have unique foraging habits, so creating varied layers in your garden can cater to all.
- Water Features: Birds need water not just for drinking but also for bathing. Including a small fountain or birdbath can draw them in. Moving water, in particular, catches their attention more effectively than still.
- Avoiding Pesticides: Using chemicals in your yard can be harmful - not just to the birds but for other beneficial insects as well. Consider organic gardening practices or integrated pest management to create a safer environment.
- Strategic Layout: Position feeders and plants in such a way that birds have quick access to shelter. By planting near your feeders, you ensure birds can dart to safety quickly.
"A well-planned landscape serves as a buffet and sanctuary all in one, increasing the chance that birds will visit frequently."
Accomplishing a truly inviting space may require time and experimentation, but the rewards are undeniable. Not only will you aid local wildlife, but you'll cultivate a dynamic backyard that's a feast for the eyes as well as an occasional chirp of delight.
Monitoring and Enjoying Visits
Keeping a close eye on your bird feeders not only enhances your own enjoyment of the avian visitors but also helps you learn more about their behaviors and preferences. By taking the time to monitor it regularly, you gain insight into which species are frequenting your yard, what types of food they prefer, and their feeding times. Not only does this offer a delightful way to connect with nature, but it can also enhance your overall birdwatching experience.
Documenting Bird Sightings
Tracking your bird sightings can be a fulfilling activity. One way to do this is by maintaining a simple journal dedicated to your observations. In it, jot down:
- Date and Time: Record when you see certain birds; this can help you detect patterns over time.
- Species Identification: Visiting species can vary, especially with seasonal changes—keep notes on what you see.
- Unique Behaviors: Any interesting activities, such as males displaying to females or birds squabbling over food, are worth noting.
You could also use apps designed for birdwatchers, such as Merlin Bird ID or eBird, which allow you to easily document your sightings and share them with others in the community. This not only helps with personal tracking but contributes to a larger database that assists with conservation efforts. Plus, it’s satisfying to look back at your notes and see the diversity of birds that visit your yard over time.
Engaging in Citizen Science
Engaging in citizen science can add a deeper layer of purpose to your birdwatching. Citizen science involves the public in scientific research projects, and your participation can contribute meaningfully to the larger understanding of bird populations.
One prominent project is the Christmas Bird Count, which encourages people to tally birds in specific areas. Similarly, platforms like Bird Count India and eBird allow enthusiasts to submit their data, providing valuable insights into migratory trends and ecological changes.
By participating in these initiatives, you:
- Help Researchers: Your data might inform critical studies on migration patterns or changes in bird populations.
- Foster Community: Join local birdwatching groups or online forums to share findings, tips, and stories with fellow bird lovers.
- Be a Steward of Nature: Understand the impact of environmental changes and advocate for the protection of natural spaces.
As you sit back and enjoy the lovely sights at your feeder, remember that each visit isn’t just about the fleeting moment. Every bird you observe can be part of a larger story that you now help to tell.
Culmination
Reflecting on the journey through optimal placement for bird feeders, it's clear that this endeavor benefits not only the birds flitting around our yards but also us, the enthusiasts looking to engage with the natural world. The choices we make regarding the positioning of feeders resonate throughout the birdwatching experience.
To begin with, selecting the right location hinges on understanding avian behavior, which plays a key role in drawing feathered friends. Birds are notoriously picky, and their feeding habits can vary with the seasons. Thus, knowing their patterns can lead to better uptake of the food offered. Careful consideration for environmental factors, such as the angle of sunlight or the prevalence of wind, cannot be dismissed either; people are not alone in their need for comfort! Birds thrive in conditions that allow them safe access to food while simultaneously providing shelter from predators.
Moreover, the act of placing a feeder on your property isn't merely for your enjoyment but also serves a larger ecological purpose. When strategically set, feeders can help support local bird populations, particularly during harsher seasons when food may be scarce. Providing sustenance aligns with a broader initiative of conservation and fostering biodiversity in one's backyard.
Additionally, the aesthetic aspect of integrating feeders into your outdoor design should not be overlooked. Well-placed bird feeders can serve as delightful focal points, enhancing the beauty of gardens. It is a blend of functionality and art which pleases both the eye and the soul.
In summary, the knowledge gained from this article is paramount not just for attracting birds but for creating an enriching environment that benefits all. Thoughtful placement of feeders encourages lively visits, contributing to a flourishing ecosystem right outside your door. So, whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just dipping your toes into this hobby, remember that every small adjustment counts.
"Birds are not just creatures to watch; they are important players in the symphony of life that we all share."
In closing, take these insights and apply them with care—it’s not just about the odds of a bird sighting but creating a space that celebrates the beauty of nature.
