When it comes to hanging a bird feeder, the most important consideration is finding a suitable place to hang it from. The location of your bird feeder will determine what kinds of birds visit and how safe it is from squirrels and other predators. Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to hang a bird feeder on:
Should I hang my bird feeder from a tree?
Hanging a bird feeder from a tree is a very common option. It provides a natural setting that birds will feel comfortable feeding from. Look for a sturdy tree branch that allows the feeder to hang at least 5-7 feet off the ground, out of reach of predators. Be sure the feeder has a squirrel guard to prevent squirrels from stealing the bird seed. The drawback is that hanging from a tree limits the placement of the feeder unless you have trees located where you want to watch birds.
What about hanging a bird feeder from a wooden post?
A wooden post is another excellent option for hanging a bird feeder. You have more flexibility on placement if you install a wooden post specifically for the bird feeder. Position the post in a convenient spot for watching and refilling the feeder. Use at least a 4×4-inch wooden post sunk securely into the ground. Hang the feeder 5-7 feet high using a baffle or squirrel guard to keep squirrels away.
Should I hang a bird feeder from my house?
It can be very convenient to hang a bird feeder from your house, deck, or porch. This allows up-close bird watching from inside your home. It also makes the bird feeder very easy to access for refilling. Look for a spot at least 5-7 feet off the ground that squirrels cannot jump to. Make sure the hangers securely attach to your eaves, beams, hooks, or other housing infrastructure. Consider how much bird seed mess will fall below the feeder.
What is a bird feeder pole?
A bird feeder pole is a post designed specifically for hanging bird feeders. These poles allow you to install bird feeders conveniently wherever you want in your yard. They come in a variety of heights, like 5-foot poles or 8-foot poles. Work the pole securely into the ground at least 12-18 inches. Use feeder hangers to install one or more bird feeders on the pole at different heights. Position pole feeders at least several feet from trees, fences or other structures where squirrels can jump from.
Is a metal pole a good option for hanging a bird feeder?
Metal poles can make very sturdy and durable feeder hangers. Look for metal poles constructed from strong materials like galvanized steel that will resist rusting and corrosion. Install the pole securely into a concrete-filled hole in the ground. Metal feeder poles range from 5-feet up to 20-feet tall, so pick the height you need. Make sure the pole is rated to handle the size and weight of the feeders you want to hang.
Should I use plastic or PVC pipe for hanging bird feeders?
Plastic and PVC pipes are cheaper alternatives for installing bird feeder poles. They are lightweight and easy to work with. Look for schedule 40 or schedule 80 PVC which has thicker, stronger walls. Bury your pipe in the ground at least 18 inches deep and fill with concrete for stability. PVC holds up well in most weather but can become brittle and crack over time in very cold climates. Use PVC feeder poles no higher than 5 or 6 feet tall.
What kind of pulley system can I use to hang bird feeders?
Pulley systems allow you to raise and lower your bird feeders. This lets you easily refill them from the ground, then lift them back into a squirrel-proof position. Install a tall pole or secure beam at least 8 feet high. Run rope through pulleys mounted at the top and bottom. Attach feeders to the bottom end of the rope. Add a cleat to the pole to tie off the rope when lifted. Look for pulleys rated for your feeder weight capacity.
Is a suspended cable system a good setup for bird feeders?
Cables suspended between trees or poles make an excellent feeder hanging system. They allow you to hang multiple feeders at different heights and positions across a large area to spread out feeding birds. Use strong braided steel cable at least 1/8-inch thick. Temperarily tension cables between eye bolts drilled into poles or tree trunks. Then make them permanently taught using turnbuckles or cable clamps when settled.
| Hanging Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Tree Branch | Natural setting, convenient if tree located well | Limits feeder placement |
| Wooden Post | Flexible placement, sturdy | Requires installing post |
| House Mount | Up-close viewing, easy to access | Can limit placement, seed mess below |
| Bird Feeder Pole | Install anywhere, adaptable heights | Permanent placement, can rust over time |
| PVC/Plastic Pipe | Lightweight, easy to install | Durability issues in cold climates |
| Pulley System | Lifts up/down for easy filling | More complex setup |
| Suspended Cables | Distributes multiple feeders | Need strong support points |
Should I use a squirrel baffle or guard to protect my bird feeder?
Yes, it is highly recommended to use a squirrel baffle or guard to protect your bird feeder. Squirrels are very determined feeder thieves. Squirrel baffles are dome-shaped devices that mount above or below feeders. They obstruct the squirrel’s path and prevent them from being able to reach the seed. Guards are cages that fit around feeders to block access. Always position feeders at least 5 feet away from jumps points like trees, fences, and poles where squirrels can leap from.
What height should I hang my bird feeder at?
The optimal height for hanging most bird feeders is between 5 to 7 feet high off the ground. This provides easy access for birds to fly in and feed. It keeps the bird seed up and away from being eaten by squirrels, rats, mice and other predators on the ground. The exact height depends on the type of birds you want to attract and your feeder setup. Finch feeders can be hung around 5 feet high. Woodpecker feeders do best at 6 to 7 feet. Hummingbird feeders are hung 3 to 5 feet high.
How far should bird feeders be from trees and bushes?
It is best to position bird feeders at least several feet away from trees, bushes, fences or other structures. You want an open clearance zone so squirrels cannot jump onto the feeder. Allow 3 to 5 feet of distance between your feeder and the nearest jump point. trimming back branches around the feeder can help deter squirrels.
Should I hang more than one bird feeder near each other?
It is fine to hang multiple bird feeders near each other, provided there is enough space for the normal traffic of birds using them. Having different style feeders in one spot allows you to cater to different bird species. Just be sure to space feeders 2 to 3 feet apart so birds do not collide and fight over perches. Also use feeders designed for different heights to create tiers when hanging more than one feeder from a post or tree.
Can I hang bird feeders from my deck or porch?
Hanging bird feeders from your deck or porch railings and beams can allow very convenient, up-close bird watching. Just be sure to hang them well away from any stairs, landings, or walking paths were seed debris or bird droppings could be a slip or fall hazard. Use strong hardware like eye bolts or metal brackets to securely mount feeder hangers on railings, joists, or posts. Position feeders at least 5 feet high and several feet away from any points squirrels could jump from.
How do I prevent birds from flying into windows near my bird feeder?
There are a few tricks to minimize birds striking windows near your feeder:
- Place feeders within 3 feet of the window so birds cannot build up full speed
- Hang feeders on the window side of the house rather than across from windows
- Put decals or stickers on problem windows to make them more visible to birds
- Install exterior screens or netting 3-4 inches in front of problem windows
Conclusion
Determining what to hang your bird feeder from requires taking into account factors like location, wildlife deterrence, durability, and convenience for watching birds and refilling the feeder. Whether you hang it from a tree, wooden post, or mounted bracket on your home, be sure to use a squirrel guard and position the feeder 5 to 7 feet off the ground for optimal success attracting birds. Properly hanging your feeder will provide you with many hours of great bird watching!
