There’s one more thing that’s just as important as refilling your bird feeder: disinfecting it. A bacterial disease called salmonelloisis is usually caused by dirty feeders, and it can kill small birds. The disease occurs when fecal matter (from birds) is mixed with bird seed, causing birds to get sick. To keep our feathered friends healthy, simply soak your bird feeder in hot water with a 10 percent bleach solution. Then rinse, dry and refill those feeders.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

The recycling initiative “Blue Jeans Go Green” is a program that collects old jeans and recycles them into eco-friendly insulation for homes. To date, more than a million pieces of denim clothing have been diverted from landfills through this program. If you’re involved in a community project -- whether it’s with your local Habitat for Humanity affiliate or if you’re working on a civic building -- you can apply to get free recycled denim insulation. Simply go online to bluejeansgogreen.org. The program is available for both for-profit and non-profit organizations.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

The quality of dry pet food can quickly deteriorate if it’s not properly stored. Look for tough plastic, glass or metal bins with lids to keep pet food fresh; it also helps keep out rodents and insects. But do not transfer the food from the bag into the bin; keep the food in the original bag inside the bin. Pet food bags are designed to keep out moisture and light, and they can be an added layer of protection for the food. The general rule of thumb with pet food is, after you’ve opened the bag (and placed it in a bin), it should be used up within six weeks.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION