Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Hummingbird Bird Feeders – Choosing the right one for your garden

Author: Tom White
Hummingbirds are beautiful as well as amazing to watch and many bird watchers and gardeners are keen to attract them in to their backyards. Specially designed hummingbird feeders are the best way to do this as they provide the very hard working hummingbird with an easy, quick source of food.
Hummingbirds diet consists of mostly of sugary nectar, pollen and small insects. They have a very high metabolism and need to consume lots of sugar to keep active throughout the day.
Hummingbird feeders come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes but there are essentially two main types of bird feeders , the saucer feeder and the inverted feeder. The saucer feeder is basically a dish that is filled with a sugary liquid, hummingbirds feed on this nectar through specially designed feeding holes. The saucer feeders are often smaller (and usually cheaper) than inverted feeders and are generally easier to clean, however they need to be refilled more often and depending on their size might not be that obvious to the hummingbirds.
Inverted feeders are larger (and often more expensive) , more visible to visiting birds and don’t require regular refilling. However inverted feeders can be difficult to clean and are poor quality feeders are prone to leaking. Although there are advantages and disadvantages for both types of feeders most people choose the inverted feeders as they tend to be more effective in attracting hummingbirds. As well as deciding on the type of feeder, consider the following factors when deciding which hummingbird feeder to purchase.
Look for a feeder that is built using some red materials. Hummingbirds are attracted to red objects and are more likely to use your feeder if it’s got a red base or tube. Also choose a feeder that is easy to clean and refill. Hummingbird feeders should be refilled twice a week or possibly more depending on the number of Hummingbirds in your garden. Larger feeders are generally easier to clean and there are special brushes that can help make the cleaning process easier.
Its worth investing in a feeder that has one or more perches on it. Although it is fascinating to watch a hummingbird hover while feeder it uses a lot of energy and are more likely to feed if you provide a perch for them to rest on.
The sugary liquid in your feeder will obviously attract many insects including wasps if it leaks out of the feeder. Many feeders have built in ant and bee protectors or you can purchase them to fit your bird feeders.
Once you have got your hummingbird feeders select a visible spot that is in the sun and ideally near a flower bed. It may take a while before you see hummingbirds and a little longer before they feel confident enough to feed using your bird feeders. After a while you maybe able to bring the feeder closer to the house so you can view from a window, however do not place too close to the window otherwise the Hummingbirds may fly in to the window and injure themselves.
Once your bird feeders are in place and filled with a sweet sugary solution, sit back and wait for these beautiful birds to start feeding – it is worth all the effort when you see the Hummingbirds feeing in your backyard.
About the Author:
Tom White is the owner of BirdShopper.com. BirdShopper.com stock a wide selection of bird feeders, birdhouses and bird baths to suit a variety of budgets and have been selling online since 1994. On the website you’ll also find advice on choosing bird feeders and birdhouses as well as tips on attracting birds to your backyard.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Hummingbird Bird Feeders – Choosing the right one for your garden

Convenient Cooking Methods With Crock Pots

Author: David H. Urmann
A slow cooker or crock pot is an electrical cooking device for countertop cooking. A crock pot works in different ways. Learn the different methods of crock pat and cook better meals.



Slow cooker is one of the versatile tools famous for making soups and stews. Cooking can be left unattended for hours. It has a removable pot made from ceramic glaze or porcelain, along with a lid and housing that contain a thermostatic electric heating element. Crock pots can both be utilized as a cooking container and a heat reservoir.



Operation

Slow cookers come in different sizes, from 16 oz to 7 quarts. There are different temperature settings used - low, medium, high, and keep warm options.



Slow cookers typically operate at an approximate of 200 °F in low setting. It is 300o F on high setting. Medium heat is qualified at 225o to 250o F,

Raw food with water or stock can be placed inside the pot, covered and switched on. Some foods need to be preheated. Some slow cookers can switch automatically from cooking to warming (160 °F to 165°F). The heating element can stop at a constant temperature when maximum heat is reached. Vapor turns to liquid and transfers heat back to the food.



Cooking Techniques

Most slow cookers come with free recipe booklets and guidelines. Here are some methods that may help cooking with a crock pot:

Browning Meats - Raw ground meats can be added directly to the crock pot, but browning it first will give better flavor and texture. It will also reduce meat fats. A roasted meat does not need to be browned at all.



Dried Beans - There are 3 methods of cooking beans on a crock pot:

• Beans can be cooked on a high-heat setting until tender.

• Another way is to cook about 2 to 3 hours on high heat and switch to low-heat for the next 8 to 10 hours.

• beans are cooked for about 2 hours in the traditional way. Turn off the crock pot and let it sit for about 8 to 24 hours. Other ingredients can be added. You can then cook this on low heat for about 8-12 hours until it is done. This method is best for baked beans because it allows the flavor to blend.



Vegetables - Chop root crops like carrots and potatoes no larger than 1-inch thick. Chop thinly because they take longer to cook compared to leaf vegetables.



Rice and Pasta - Cook rice with ¼ extra liquid or ¼ cup of uncooked grain rice for better results. Cook pasta only until it becomes slightly tender. Do not overcook.



Liquids - Liquids easily evaporate in the cooking process. It is always safe to add a little extra when needed.



Herbs and Spices - Spices and ground herbs easily lose taste when added early in the cooking process. It is best to add them when the dish is nearly done.



Soups - To make a thinner soup, add more water after cooking. For milk-based soups, one or two cups of water is enough. Stir in milk during the last hours of cooking.



Most crock pot cooking can be made into one dish. Use a single pot to reduced washing chores. Cooking on lower temperatures make cleaning easier.



Pre-boil kidney beans first before cooking in a crock pot. Otherwise, it can cause food poisoning.
About the Author:
For more information on Dinner Crock pot Recipes and Pastas and Noodles please visit our website.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Convenient Cooking Methods With Crock Pots

How To Wear Fashion Accessories

Author: Good Evening
With the end of the 20th century came the end of all hype which has created a more practical and pragmatic environment and has given a more stable picture of the fashion business. In the 50s, 60s and 70s, the Indian fashion scenario wasn't exactly colorless. It was exciting, stylish and very graceful.

Since the spread-out of malls is increasing, the major issue will be how to organize fashion retails industry, has potential of making Rs 50,000cr business by the year 2007. Indian retail would cover-up 50mn sq ft by 2007 of sales space countrywide, and nearly 50 % of the total space would be assigned for fashion retailing.

What is Fashion Trend Really About?

Your closet can give the answer. If you don't want to look at it, well.well. this resembles that you are matching your steps with the latest fashion trends. What it's relation to fashion? People stick rigidly to the rules - okay, maybe not 'YOU'. You may be one of those who walk their own way and dress as they like.

A neckerchief scarf can be worn as a:

• Headband

• Neck scarf with a collared shirt, V-neck, round neck T-shirt

• Bracelet by wrapping around multiple times and creating a cuff-type bracelet

• Tied around a plain handbag strap to add a splash of color and flair

Diamonds are of course one of the leading precious stones and maintain their position in the current fashion trends. In addition to the normal diamond the use of yellow, blue and even black diamonds are gaining in popularity.

The face is considered the focal point when communicating with others. There are certain ways that you can direct attention to your face. By wearing a necklace, earrings, a brooch or a scarf you can make your face the center of attention. Other accessories that draw attention are hair clips, head bands, hats and a tie for a man.

High heels are a necessity when achieving a professional look. Choose heels that are slender not chunky. A pair of both black heels and brown heels should be a staple in your wardrobe. This way you have a pair of heels to match any outfit.

Put on your fancy shoes no matter how elegant or expensive they may be. Choose stockings in a neutral color and if you want one with a design, choose a subtle one. If you are going to a ball or the races, wear gloves.

Another issue with kids in middle school and high school is school dress codes, since most schools have dress codes that forbid revealing clothing it may be wise for you to put your foot down before the school does and you end up having a teen that is suspended for breaking the school dress code. It is far better to end the problems before they start.

If you want to truly be successful, you have to look the part. You have to not only be good at what you do, but you have to look professional and polished. If you are too busy to be concerned about your appearance, hire a fashion consultant to help you. You will be surprised at the results
About the Author:
Read About Beauty Tips Also Read About How To Wear Fashion Accessories and How To Wear Jeans With Style
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - How To Wear Fashion Accessories

How to start a coin collection without spending too many coins?

Author: Mark Etinger
The hobby of coin collecting is unlike any other hobby. It is an entertaining past time that millions of people around the world enjoy. When your collection grows, you start to discover that there is a story behind each and every coin. Special coins can take you on a special tour through the past and provide you with better understanding of our history. Other coins tell you the journey they’ve been through. But most off all you can enjoy wonderful memories and have a legacy that lasts generations to come.
If you’d like to get into the coin collecting business there are a few things you should know - that’s why we’ve got this list together so you can have an easy start.
  1. Which coins you would like to collect? There are many and many different types of coins from all over the world and from different time frames. It’s better for you to start by focusing on a theme that interests you most. You can collect coins by years or by countries. You can collect themed coins like coins that depict your hero or a subject you’re interested in, like nature or airplanes.
  2. Start with collecting coins that are available or in circulation and see if you like it. Collect the State quarters or ask from friends that travel abroad to bring you back some coins. This is an exciting and inexpensive way to start a coin collection.
  3. If you see that coin collecting is your calling, start with doing some homework. You can find information online or in various magazines about coins and professional collectors.
  4. Get a protective album or book where you can safely store your coin collection. These albums are great when you want to display your collection and they also keep the coins protected.
  5. Finish a set before moving on to the next. Once you start a collection, you can get easily tempted to get other coins and different themes. When you finish a set, it makes it easier to have an organized and valuable collection.
  6. When your coin collection starts to gain scope and value, you should think about safe storage. Buy or rent a safe because coin collections are the first thing thieves are looking for. If you don’t have a safe, make sure that the collection is kept in a well hidden place, and not displayed around the house.
Another benefit of collecting coins is the fact that it can become pretty valuable with time. Try and work with metals that will rise in value like silver and gold but don’t go over the top. It takes time for your collection to gain value and in the meanwhile you should know your budget.
If you are looking for more information about coins and coin collections, head on to www.ContinentalMint.com were we help Coin Collectors start and expand their collection with a wide selection of coin sets and collectors’ supplies, at the best prices available. At www.ContinentalMint.com we are dedicated to bring you a memorable piece of U.S. history, a professional, knowledgeable Customer Service and discounted prices and shipping rates.
Continental Mint helps Coin Collectors to expand their collection with a wide selection of coin sets and collectors’ supplies, at the best prices available.
About the Author:
Mark Etinger is a business strategist at Ajax Union Marketing Ajax Union specializes in Business Development and Internet Marketing
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - How to start a coin collection without spending too many coins?
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