Prime Perch: Where to Hang Your Birdfeeders

Putting a birdfeeder in your backyard isn’t complicated, but location is an important factor to consider. If you put place a birdfeeder in the wrong spot, you could inadvertently harm birds. In this blog, Mr. Handyman will give you some helpful tips on where to hang your birdfeeders.

The first thing you should do before hanging your birdfeeder is to locate an ideal spot in your yard. To find the ideal spot in your backyard, ask yourself two questions. “Can I see the feeder well?” “Is the feeder in a safe location for the birds?” The first question should be an easy one. However, most are not aware of the safety precautions needed to ensure your birdfeeder is not putting birds in harm’s way. Here are a few things to know:

• The location should be away from bushes, trees, and/or fences. This minimizes the risk of predators harming the birds or jumping onto the bird feeder. In some cases, there is no other place to hang the bird feeder but on a tree. If that is true for you, keep it at least six feet from the trunk or the tree limbs.

• The birdfeeder should be in close proximity to a window. This prevents a bird from taking off from the feeder at top speed and hitting the window, thus increasing the chances of survival. Place feeders closer than 3 feet to a window. (If you have to place away from a window, place the birdfeeder farther than 30 feet from a window.) Window glass kills millions of birds annually, so do your part in keeping birds safe!

• A sheltered area of the backyard (preferably facing southeast) is an ideal location to hang a bird feeder since birds like to feed in the sun and out of the wind. Also, make sure this area has a clear view to allow birds to identify any potential predators.

Here is one last tip. Be patient! It may take several weeks for birds to discover your birdfeeder. (This is especially true for first timers.) If you need some help attracting birds, try using black oil sunflower seeds, place a bird bath by the birdfeeder, or place a pie pan under the feeder to attract birds in flight.

In need of any summertime repairs? Contact your local Mr. Handyman by calling or request service in your area.