A feeder in the wrong spot gets ignored. Hang it 1.5-3m high, within 3m of cover, at least 3m from anything a squirrel can jump from, and where you can see it from inside. That is the formula for a busy feeder.
Hanging Methods
| Method | Best for | Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Shepherd’s hook | Any ground area | Easy to move, cheap, fits any feeder | Squirrels climb them without a baffle |
| Tree branch | Tube and small feeders | Natural look, birds feel safe | Squirrels jump from trunk, branch may break |
| Pole system | Multiple feeders | Holds several feeders, add baffles easily | Needs installation, more expensive |
| Deck rail hook | Close viewing | Great for watching from inside | Squirrels access easily from deck |
| Wall bracket | Fences and walls | Sturdy, permanent mount | Limited placement options |
| Window suction mount | Window feeders | Closest possible bird viewing | Risk of window strikes, small capacity |
| Overhead hanger | Pergolas and arbours | Shaded feeding, squirrel-resistant if isolated | Limited to structures you already have |
Placement Rules
| Rule | Why |
|---|
| 1.5-3m off the ground | Safe from cats, accessible for refilling |
| Within 3m of shrubs or trees | Birds need nearby escape cover |
| 3m+ from squirrel launch points | Squirrels jump up to 3m horizontally |
| Face opening away from prevailing wind | Keeps seed dry and birds sheltered |
| Visible from a window | So you can actually enjoy watching |
| Away from doors and walkways | Human traffic scares birds |
| Space multiple feeders 3-5m apart | Reduces territorial conflict |
Squirrel-Proofing
| Method | How it works |
|---|
| Baffle on pole | Cone or cylinder prevents climbing |
| Weight-sensitive feeder | Closes ports when heavy animal perches |
| Caged feeder | Wire cage lets small birds in, blocks squirrels |
| Isolated pole | Pole in open ground, 3m+ from any tree or structure |
| Greased pole | Temporary but effective - needs regular reapplication |
How Many Feeders?
| Yard size | Feeders | Why |
|---|
| Small | 1-2 | One seed feeder plus one suet or nyjer |
| Medium | 2-4 | Different feeder types attract different species |
| Large | 4+ | Spread feeders around to reduce crowding and territorial fights |
Different birds prefer different feeders. A tube feeder attracts finches and chickadees. A hopper feeder brings cardinals and jays. A suet cage draws woodpeckers and nuthatches. Offering variety attracts diversity.
Feeder Maintenance
- Refill before sunrise - early birds get first pick
- Clean every 2 weeks - hot water and scrub brush
- Remove wet or mouldy seed immediately
- Check hanging hardware - rust, fraying rope, and bent hooks cause feeders to fall
Hang feeders 1.5-3m high, within 3m of cover, at least 3m from squirrel launch points, and where you can see them from inside. Add a baffle to the pole and clean every two weeks. Simple setup, busy feeder.
