Window bird feeders are feeders that can be attached to a window or windowsill, allowing for easy, unobstructed and up close viewing of the birds that come to visit your feeding stations. Window feeders are usually made of clear plastic material and can either be suction cupped to a window or attached using Velcro.
Almost all kinds of birds that are normally attracted to feeders will attempt to feed from your window feeder, birds like finches, chickadees, titmice and sparrows.
This type of feeder can present some hazards though. Birds feeding on your window feeder will stand on the pile of seeds you have prepared. Their bird droppings can get mixed into the bird feed and this might lead to contamination, causing the seeds to spoil easily. Window feeders are also not recommended for edgy and restless birds since they might get frightened easily by the close proximity of humans to their feeding area, but this can be avoided by using two way mirrored bird feeders.
If you are thinking about installing window bird feeders, here is some information that you might find useful.
Size of the feeder
The feeder size that you will need is dependent on the number of birds that you would like to feed at a time and the frequency at which you intend to refill the feeder. Most window bird feeders can accommodate a few birds at a time and can hold about 1 or 2 cups of bird seeds. Some windowsill feeders can be big enough for a larger number of birds and can hold up to one or two quarts of bird seeds. If the birds frequenting your feeding station empty your feeder in less than three days, you might want to think about using a larger feeder or adding more bird feeders.
What feeder works with what window?
Check the size and measurements of any window feeder to ensure its compatibility with the specific dimensions and conditions of your window at home. The majority of windowsill feeders will fit an exact range of windowsill sizes and might possibly need to have the window closed on top of it to keep the feeder in place. Feeders that can be attached to windows are rather flexible and can be mounted on almost any type of window. If you are doubtful as to what window feeder will work best with your type of window, get the dimensions and the measurements of your window and call your local bird feeder dealer for their recommendations.
Feeder location
Ideally, your feeder should be placed in an area that has all these requirements:
. The area must be is inviting to birds. Birds might not come to visit your feeder if they don't find the location attractive.
. You have to be able to view your bird feeder easily from inside your house. Placing your feeders at an area with an obstructed view will defeat the purpose of the window bird feeder.
. The feeder must be easily accessible to allow for seemingly effortless refills. If possible, place your feeder at a spot that can be reached from both inside and outside the house.
When to install
Window bird feeders may be installed any time of the year. However, there are some types of window bird feeders that might require your windows to be kept open. These might be inconvenient for you during the winter months and therefore is not advisable for installation when the cold seasons start.
Squirrel access and other pesky animals
Squirrels may or may not be able to reach your feeder, depending on the type of window feeder that you are using. Feeders that are attached to your windows are small and can be difficult for squirrels to reach. As for the windowsill feeders, this type of window feeder is just a variation of a tray feeder and does not offer a lot of protection against squirrels. If you there are any branches that hang near your windows, a windowsill feeder might not be a great choice, but if squirrels cannot access your windows easily, then using a windowsill feeder is okay.
Crashing birds
There is no need to worry about having any birds crash into your window if you install a window bird feeder. The use of window feeders will actually decrease the chances of a bird flying into your window. The birds are more likely to avoid flying into your window if you have a bird feeder attached since birds typically tend to crash into clean windows with unbroken reflections of the sky on the glass.
Having window bird feeders installed offer a great chance at an up close encounter with birds. Try to get one set up and enjoy watching the birds.
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