I have been practicing the bird feeding for several years, and feeders have been shown to be the best solution. They are practical and hygienic. And because there are always dissensions, Territorial skirmishes and rank disputes at the feeding place, it is better to hang a number of feeding stations in different versions in order to offer alternatives for low-ranking animals or other types. That's why I've bought myself a. Filled with both medium to larger seeds (eg. As finished mixes or sunflower seeds). Now I'm still looking for a station for very fine seeds, because in the meantime he is also goldfinches.
The winter feeding is controversial. Although not as severe as it was a few years, but still enough. I have chosen from all private reasons for feeding (winter feeding from October) and liked watching the bustle at the feeding site - to a field guide, and perhaps even a pair of binoculars: Better than television.
Postscript December 2011: My Gardmann-feeders (3 pieces) are now in their 3rd season: The plastic food containers are not perfect - no crack, no crack, no discoloration, no flaking.
Supplement November 2012: feeding column is still ok.