If you have a small garden, patio, or even just a balcony, a window bird feeder is a fantastic way to attract wild birds and observe them up close. Window bird feeders attach either to a windowsill or directly to the glass of a windowpane, offering a great way to enjoy birdwatching from the comfort of your home. Here’s how to choose, use, and maintain your feeder for the best results.
These feeders typically hold more food than on-window types, attracting a wider variety of birds. However, some require you to keep the window open for attachment, which may pose a security concern, especially for ground-floor windows.
These feeders attach directly to the glass using suction pads. While smaller in capacity, multiple feeders can be placed on the same window to attract more birds. On-window feeders are also more effective at deterring predators like squirrels and cats, as they’re harder for them to reach.
Window feeders are designed to hold a variety of bird food including seeds and nuts. You can also buy window feeders designed to hold fat balls as suet cakes, as well as ones with cages and barriers to prevent squirrels and larger birds such as pigeons raiding your bird food, and who are more likely to make the window feeder fall off due to their weight.
When selecting a window for your feeder, ensure it’s easy to view from inside your home and accessible for refilling. A convenient location will make the experience more enjoyable for both you and the birds.
Attaching your window bird feeder properly is essential to ensure it stays securely in place, even with birds hopping on and off.
Begin by cleaning both the suction cups and the glass where the feeder will be mounted. Use warm, soapy water or a glass cleaner to remove any dirt, grease, or dust that could prevent a strong seal. Be thorough, as even a small amount of debris can cause the suction to fail over time. Once cleaned, make sure the window is completely dry before proceeding.
For an extra-strong hold, apply a thin layer of grease, such as petroleum jelly or cooking oil, to the inside edges of the suction cups. This helps create a vacuum seal and prevents air from seeping in, which could weaken the bond. Use just a small amount, as too much can make the cups slippery and reduce their effectiveness.
Position the feeder carefully against the window, ensuring the suction cups are placed flat against the glass. Press each suction cup firmly and evenly, starting from the centre and working outward. This helps squeeze out any trapped air bubbles that could compromise the seal.
Gently tug on the feeder to ensure it’s securely attached. If it feels loose, remove it, clean the surfaces again, and reapply it with more pressure. A properly mounted feeder should feel solid and immovable.
Even with proper installation, suction cups can lose their grip over time due to temperature changes or prolonged use. Check your feeder periodically, especially after heavy rain or strong winds, to ensure it’s still secure. Reapply grease and repeat the steps as needed.
By taking the time to attach your feeder correctly, you’ll minimise the risk of it falling and ensure your feathered visitors have a safe and reliable feeding spot.
The birds you attract will depend on the type of feeder you use and the food you provide.
Classic window bird feeder: A classic window feeder, with its simple tray design and often a protective roof, is highly versatile. By filling it with a variety of foods like nuts, seeds, and kitchen scraps, you can attract a range of common garden birds, including blue tits, great tits, sparrows, and blackbirds. Some feeders come with adjustable-height roofs, which can help keep larger birds from dominating and give smaller species better access.
Window tube feeder: If you opt for a tube feeder, which mimics the design of traditional tube bird feeders, you can attract more specific birds depending on the food you choose. Filling it with sunflower seeds will bring goldfinches and greenfinches to your window, while nuts are sure to tempt tits, great spotted woodpeckers, and nuthatches.
Window fat feeder: Fat is crucial for birds during the winter, providing the energy they need to survive. Window fat feeders are designed to hold wither fat balls or suet cakes, which are often enriched with mealworms, seeds, and berries. As temperatures drop, you may notice long-tailed tits and robins visiting for a much-needed boost of nutrition.
By choosing the right feeder and food, you can attract a variety of wild birds to your window and enjoy watching their visits up close.
Birds often mistake windows for open spaces, leading to accidents when they attempt to fly through reflections. To help prevent these collisions, there are a few simple steps you can take to make your window safer for visiting birds.
One of the most effective methods is using curtains or blinds inside your home. These will help reduce the amount of reflection on the glass, making it easier for birds to see that the window is solid rather than a fly-through space. If you’re placing your bird feeder near the window, keeping the curtains slightly closed, or using blinds that diffuse light, can create a safer environment for your feathered visitors.
Another helpful approach is to place decals or stickers on the glass. Birds have excellent vision, but they often don’t recognise clear glass as a barrier. By strategically placing brightly coloured, eye-catching decals or window clings, you can break up the reflection and create visible markers that birds can easily spot. These decals come in various designs, from simple patterns to images of birds or other animals, which help make the window visible without obstructing your view too much.
While the mere presence of a window bird feeder can often act as a deterrent, as birds tend to approach from different angles, taking these extra precautions can further reduce the risk of collisions.
Maintaining good hygiene is important to preventing the spread of disease among garden birds. To keep your window feeder in top condition, make it a habit to clean it at least once a week. Carefully remove the feeder from the window, then discard any leftover food and debris that may have accumulated.
Once empty, wash the feeder thoroughly with hot, soapy water to ensure all residues are removed. Some window feeders are dishwasher-safe, but be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before putting them in the dishwasher.
After cleaning, inspect the feeder for any cracks or damage that could pose a risk to visiting birds. Small cracks can trap birds or cause injury, so it’s important to address any issues before reinstalling the feeder.
Allow the feeder to dry completely before reattaching it to the window, following the steps above to ensure a secure fit.
It may take some time for birds to start visiting your feeder. Wild birds need to become accustomed to the new feeding spot and your movements near the window. Consistently providing food will eventually encourage them to visit regularly.
By following these tips, you’ll create a safe and inviting space for birds while enjoying the chance to watch their fascinating behaviour up close.
