ST. PAUL, Minn. – Wildlife experts caution against putting corn and other grains out for wild birds, especially roadside. Birds attracted to the grain are more vulnerable to being hit by traffic, the state Natural Resources Department said. There is special concern for ringtail pheasants, whose population the agency is working to expand. Also:
> Luring wild birds from their nests exposing them to frigid temperatures and predators.
> Encouraging wild birds to congregate increases the chance for avian diseases to spread.
The state has conservation reserve programs that pay farmers to plant tall grass, brush and trees to help create more nesting cover for wildlife.