Placing bird feeders is one of the easiest ways to support a garden WildlifeBut knowing where not to put a bird feeder is just as important as what you fill it with. The wrong location can make birds vulnerable to predators, increase the risk of disease or stop them from visiting altogether.
When it comes to caring for garden birds, most people focus What to feed the birds in the garden. But the following Updated guidance from the RSPB Knowing, on the spread of the fatal finch disease trichomonosis where Equally important is the placement of the feeder. Placement plays a key role in reducing contamination and helping to feed birds safely.
The good news is that small changes to your setup can make all the difference. When it comes to bird feeder placement, experts warn you should avoid — and what to do instead.
1. Leaving it in one place for too long
This one surprises most people, but RSPB Warns that keeping bird feeders in one place in your garden can cause litter, seed husks and droppings to accumulate, increasing the risk of disease.
‘We recommend rotating the position of bird feeders around your outdoor space, to reduce the chance of contaminated food building up under the feeder,’ says RSPB wildlife specialist Charlotte Ambrose.
The RSPB is to provide guidance Bird feeder completely clean Every week, which is also when you should rotate them. ‘Once cleaned and any existing debris from the bottom of the feeder is cleared it’s a great time to move them to a new location,’ advises Charlotte.
This is especially important when Feeding birds during wet weather – Heavy rain can increase the build-up of contaminated feed and droppings under feeders – making regular rotation even more of a priority.
Charlotte Ambrose has worked at the RSPB for 10 years in the Wildlife Inquiry Team, and now manages the team. She loves talking to ardent wildlife lovers about all things nature. Before working for the RSPB she worked in customer service and studied wildlife and conservation at university, also volunteering at RSPB Fan Drayton Lakes.
2. Next to the window
(Image credit: Future plc)
A bird feeder next to a window may seem like the perfect place to put it, but it can significantly increase the risk of collisions because many birds struggle to recognize the reflection in the window.
Dick Woods, Founder Finch Friend Nature Warns that window collisions are one of the most common significant hazards to birds.
‘Never put a feeder next to a window,’ he says. ‘When the feeder is placed next to the glass, the birds see a reflection of the garden, not an obstacle. If startled, they can take off at speed and fly straight to the window.’
To reduce risk, place feeders well away from windows, or use purpose-built window feeders with a controlled, close feeding design that slows bird movement and reduces the risk of collisions.
3. Near a fence or dense cover
(Image credit: Alamy)
While it might seem logical to tack a bird feeder against a hedge or fence for shelter, that might be exactly the kind of place a cat would stake.
‘Keep feeders away from thickets, thick hedges or fence lines where birds can be easily attacked by predators,’ advises Sean McMenemy, wildlife expert Arch wildlife.
Charlotte also adds that it can be tempting to attach feeders to fences, a practice that can make it easier for rodents to access food and for cats to prey on feeding birds.
The ideal position is close to, but not touching, a tree, shrub or hedge. ‘Try to place feeders either close to bushes or hedges, so birds can get in if needed, but not so close that predators are lying in wait,’ says Charlotte.
Charlotte adds that a useful rule of thumb is that birds prefer a clear 360-degree view of their surroundings when foraging.
4. Under a tree
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Hanging a bird feeder from a tree may seem like a natural place, but placing it directly under the branches can cause many problems.
‘The RSPB recommends not placing feeders under trees,’ says Charlotte. ‘This can provide unwitting predators with a place to sit and wait, and can also result in birds dropping onto feeders.’
If you want to use a tree, hang the feeder from the end of an overhanging branch or a bracket away from the trunk, so it sits away from the main canopy.
5. On a flat surface or bird tables with trays
(Image credit: Getty Images/Barcreative)
Bird tables and feeders with attached flat trays look charming and traditional, but The RSPB is now actively warning against its use.
‘Our scientific research has confirmed that flat feeding surfaces increase the risk of spreading trichomonosis between birds,’ says Charlotte. ‘We therefore ask the public to retire feeders with attached trays, including those with a flat surface, such as bird tables and window feeders.’
Opt for a hanging tube or mesh feeder instead, which keeps the food moving and helps prevent contamination.
Buy bird feeder essentials
Amazon
Anti-collision stickers
If your garden has large windows or glass doors, anti-collision stickers are one of the easiest things you can do to protect visiting birds. These are removable and reusable from Amazon.
Argos
Gardman Wild Bird Feeding Station
A freestanding feeding station solves the biggest placement headache – and these are currently on sale at Argos.
RSPB
RSBP Hanging Classic Seed Feeder
This RSPB Classic Seed Feeder from Amazon has four ports, is easy to clean and is suitable for year-round feeding.
Where is the best place to put a bird feeder?
‘The best location for a bird feeder is one that balances safety, shelter and visibility,’ says Sean McMenemy, wildlife specialist at Ark Wildlife. ‘In UK gardens, feeders should ideally be located close to, but not directly touching, trees or shrubs, providing birds with a quick escape route if they feel threatened.’
Sean says it’s also important to choose a sheltered location that protects the food from strong winds and excessive sun while maintaining a clear view of the surrounding area. ‘A quieter part of the garden, away from heavy foot traffic and road noise, will help the birds feel safer and encourage regular visits throughout the year.’
By choosing a shelter location with close cover and a clear line of sight, you’ll create a feeding station that’s both safer and more attractive to visiting birds.
With trichomonosis and other disease concerns, getting the bird feeder placement right has never been more important. A few simple changes can help keep visiting birds safe while encouraging them to return to your garden year-round.
