Ruokkijina

Ruokkijina is a Finnish term that translates to "feeder" or "food provider." In its most common usage, it refers to a device designed to hold and dispense food for birds, particularly during winter months when natural food sources are scarce. These feeders are a popular way for people to support local wildlife and observe birds in their gardens.

Bird feeders come in various designs and materials, including wood, plastic, and metal. They can be hung from trees, mounted on poles, or placed on window sills. The type of food offered in a ruokkijina also varies, with common options including seeds like sunflower and millet, suet, and specialized bird mixes. The placement and type of feeder can influence which bird species are attracted.

Beyond bird feeding, the term ruokkijina can sometimes be used more broadly to describe any container or mechanism that dispenses food for animals. However, its association with avian feeding is the most prevalent meaning. Maintaining clean feeders is important to prevent the spread of diseases among bird populations.