After a several week prohibition on bird feeders in Pennsylvania, due to an unexplained sickness that was spreading through a variety of songbirds in this and other states, bird enthusiasts are again encouraged to feed the birds and enjoy the feathered splendor from the comfort of their homes.

The Quittapahilla Audubon Society, based in Palmyra, is offering high-quality bird seed for the fall and winter seasons. It is the 43rd year for the sale.

Proceeds from the purchase provides funds for a variety of the society’s environmental education and appreciation programs, according to a group statement.

“Due to much higher wholesale prices this fall, you will notice an increase over last year’s prices,” organizers said. “However, we have attempted to keep our increases to a minimum.”

Distribution of seed this year will be done “in a safe and convenient way” at the East Hall of the Lebanon Valley Expo Center, the release noted.

“You don’t even have to leave your vehicle since your orders will be loaded for you,” the notice says.

However, the society is unable to store seed this year for later delivery, so seeds must be claimed during scheduled pickup times from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5, and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 6.

The deadline for orders is Oct. 22. Sales tax is included in prices listed on the order form.

“Feeding wild birds is one of the most enjoyable, absorbing, and rewarding lifetime hobbies,” the society said in its statement. “Not only do you get to see birds up close, which is a real thrill, but you also have the satisfaction of feeding and helping out a wild animal. Feeding and attracting birds is part of a large trend toward turning our backyards into wildlife sanctuaries, peaceful and stress-reducing places that nurture the birds and are havens for us.”

Offerings include black oil sunflower seeds, sunflower chips, safflower seeds, nyjer, split peanuts, peanut hearts, cracked corn, suet cakes and a variety of seed blends.

Seeds are sold in bags weighing 5 to 50 pounds, with costs ranging from $1.75 for a suet seed cake to $45 for a 25-pound bag of sunflower chips.

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