Karen Dobbin, who owns and operates Birdie Blocks with Darren McGuin, is seen during the recent Community Fall Market at Carefor North Stor Support Centre in Finch. Thompson Goddard Photo

SOUTH DUNDAS – If you are looking to provide the very best for feeding our feathered friends, then Birdie Blocks is a good place to start the search.

Owned and operated by Darren McGuin and Karen Dobbin, the business began in 2022 after developing the business during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Birdie Blocks is a convenient, modern way to feed wild songbirds” explained Darren. He continued how their company provides an opportunity to feed them with “Less Mess, Less Waste, Less Time”

After the success of the first market they attended, the couple decided to commit to developing this home-based business. Darren mentioned how over the years, Birdie Blocks is growing by “leaps and bounds”, with a reliable customer base developing.

Darren explained the cylinder or square blocks are created using gelatin as a binding agent for the premium bird seed used. The use of these blocks result in less spillage, waste and more nourishment for birds. The blocks inhibit the throwing of birdseed to ground by bird and the seed used in their production being high in protein and carbohydrates is beneficial for the birds.

There are several types of bird feeders which have been designed and created by Darren for the bird seed blocks. Noting how squirrels raiding birder feeders in search of a bite to eat is a real concern and annoyance to many, he mentioned how his Bird Feeding Station inhibits the squirrels from getting the bird seed.

Darren commented there has been a 30% drop in the number of song-birds over the last 10 years, explaining habitat destruction is one of the factors which has contributed to the decreased numbers. Conversely, has been an increase of people feeding birds, which he has described as a positive way to help stabilize the bird population. This hobby allows people to not only enjoy seeing the beauty of the birds, but assists in developing a connection with nature for them. Education is a key to the development of any subject, and as an avid birder for over 40 years, the couple enjoy passing along information on birds and their feeding requirements to customers.

Running a home-based business requires a lot of dedication and commitment by the owners. Darren explained how as the business evolves there are more considerations and decisions to be made. He noted that as a business grows, there can be the need for change in several areas, including a larger production space, workers and marketing.

Providing a product which is locally produced and working with local partners are two benefits small businesses can bring to their community. Darren noted how those wishing to developing a new business have to “be all in” during the development phase. As the business develops there is a lot of hard work commitment and belief in the product needed.

More information on Birdie Blocks can be found on their Facebook page.

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