Bird Feeder Placement Guide

The placement of a bird feeder is generally relative to the owner. Unlike bird houses that require certain locations to attract specific birds, bird feeders are generally used by a variety of species and do not involve all that much detail in the placement. However, there are a few considerations to think about before you hang your bird feeder.

Near trees and shrubs

Probably the most important bird feeder placement location is near shrubs and bushes. Typically birds do not feel comfortable feeding in open areas. The nearby shrubs offer a hiding place for them in case a dangerous predator comes near. Not only can trees and shrubs be a refuge for startled birds, but they can also obstruct predators from seeing the birds to begin with.

Away from dangerous animals

Animals such as cats and hawks are dangerous to birds because, unlike squirrels and rodents, cats will eat the birds and not the bird food. You will want to make sure that the feeder is at least five feet from shrubs and trees. Five feet is a close enough distance to provide birds with cover and far enough to prevent a feline from successfully leaping onto the feeder. If you own a cat and are scared that he might be a problem, you can try purchasing a collar with a bell. The noise might help alert the birds in close proximity of his presence, however there is no guarantee.

Near a place that you can access

There will come a time when you will need to refill the feeder. In fact, you will probably need to refill the food quite often. It is important to place the feeder in a location that is easily accessible. You should try to avoid a location that mandates a ladder to access the feeder. The easier it is to refill the feeder, the more likely you will do it.

A place that you do not mind getting dirty

Birds, much like all living things, are messy. It is important to acknowledge that having dozens of wild birds visiting a certain area will create somewhat of a mess. From feathers, bird excrement, to discarded seeds, it can get somewhat untidy near the feeder. Try to place it in a location where you do not mind the mess, i.e. away from walkways, porches, or other areas that you might frequent often.

In a perfect spot for you to watch

The most important place for a bird feeder is in a spot where you can see it. Try to image a spot in your home or in your yard where you might enjoy watching birds. Perhaps in view from the kitchen window so when you are scrubbing the dirty dishes, you can look out at natures beauty. Or maybe near the window by the dinner table, so you and your family can enjoy the variety of birds while eating breakfast or lunch. You can also put the feeder in view of a quiet area such as a den or a bedroom where you can sit, relax, and simply enjoy the visuals. The choice is yours.

Bird watching is a wonderful pastime that you, your family, and friends can enjoy. In fact, according to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, more than sixty million Americans actively enjoy the activity of watching and feeding birds. By placing a bird feeder on your property you are not only enriching your life with pleasant visuals, but you are also helping assist the wildlife in your area. Although birds do not often die from starvation, they can become sick from eating food in areas that are unhealthy. Your bird feeder provides a clean and healthy source of nutritious food for the birds in your area, which is enjoyment in itself.