Best place to put bird feeders

Hello, you've been so helpful with all of my questions! We've just moved our feeders around for winter viewing. How long before the cardinals figure out the new configuration. ~ Pewamo, MI

Where to Place Feeders

The number one rule in feeder location is to place it where you can watch the birds easily. Try to find a place that's sheltered from the wind and away from cats and other predators. And then you'll just have to wait for the cardinals to get in the habit of visiting the new feeder locations. They can be stubborn but eventually become comfortable at the new location.

How Birds Find The Feeder

Birds are amazing creatures and can find new feeders several different ways just like humans find restaurants. Everyone has a friend that likes to tell you about the new "hot spot." Some birds fly in flocks and may send out a scout bird to forage for new feeding sites.

Or if you see a line around the block for a restaurant, you may get in line yourself to check out the food. Some solitary birds see a lot of birds at a feeder and go see what all the fuss is about.

What if you see the "Golden Arches" on the way home from work? You know what's inside. Most birds find their food by sight. Some birds already eat at the neighbor's house and may see your familiar feeders on the way home.

How Long Does It Take

It may be a matter of hours before birds discover new feeders or a matter of weeks. The variation depends on habitat, number of nearby feeders, and the kinds of birds in the area. Chickadees, and House Sparrows are especially quick to locate new feeders. Also if you switch feeders the birds may be cautious to try that feeder. To encourage the birds to use new feeders tempt them with scattered seeds on the ground.

Advanced Pole System

Wild Birds Unlimited patented Advanced Pole System (APS) is comprised of interchangeable hardware pieces, that lets you add or subtract bird feeders, birdhouses and other bird feeding accessories. It gives you the ability to create and customize your bird feeding station with over 3,000 combinations.

Related Articles:
- Product Highlight: Advanced Pole System http://bit.ly/uKRdrZ 
- How to hang feeders from trees http://bit.ly/suV4Z5
- How to Protect My Bluebird House pole: http://bit.ly/vcPUb7
- Last Minute Gifts for Birdwatchers http://bit.ly/tMBYOf

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Category › Bird Basics