Where to place window bird feeder

If you’re a bird lover and have a window in your home, then this article is for you! We’ll go over how to attract birds to a window feeder, as well as the numerous benefits it provides.

Window feeders can be a lot of fun to watch, and they’re a great way to get up close and personal with some of your favorite backyard birds.

Not to mention they are a great way for bird enthusiasts of all levels to experience birdwatching. It’s really exciting to see them outside your window, feeding on the food that you’ve provided them.

This article will show you how to attract birds to your window feeder, the best types of window feeders, the right seed to use, steps for success with window feeders, the benefits of using a window feeder, how to install a window feeder, and much more.

Here are tips to attract birds to your window feeder in no time:

1.  Choose a quality window feeder
2. Use your bird’s favorite food
3. Start with a popular bird seed
4. Location is important
5.  Make the feeder visible
6. Lure them will other colorful feeders
7. Ground feed if possible
8. Avoid high traffic windows
9.  Remove other bird feeders
10.  Add a water supply
11.  Keep the bird feeder clean
12.  Be patient

Below we go into detail and provide more success tips for utilizing your window feeder to its full potential.

How to attract birds to your window feeder?

Making the ideal bird habitat is key to attracting birds to a window feeder. You’ll need to provide things like a water supply, the right birdseed, the proper feeders, and the perfect location. Be patient if you put out food; the birds will come!

Here are some of our most valuable suggestions for attracting birds to a window feeder.

Choose a Quality Window Feeder

Choosing a quality window feeder is important for attracting birds to your window.

There are many reasons why choosing a quality window feeder is important. First and foremost, it needs to be sturdy and durable to withstand the weather. It’s also important that the feeder is easy to clean so that you can keep it sanitary and free of mold and debris.

The right feeder will also make it easier for the birds to access the food. Some feeders have perches that allow the birds to stand while they eat, making it more comfortable.

You don’t want a feeder that is constantly falling off your window when birds come to visit. Invest in a quality bird feeder from the get-go!

But most importantly, a quality window feeder will make it easier for you to attract birds to your feeder. They are made from high-quality materials and construction, so they will last for years. And because they’re easy to clean and refill, you will be able to keep them in excellent condition at all times.

Quick Tip

It’s also a good idea to choose a feeder designed for the specific type of birds you are trying to attract. For example, if you want to attract hummingbirds, you’ll need an ideal feeder for feeding them.

Use Their Favorite Food

When attracting birds to a window feeder, using their favorite food is key. Different types of birds prefer different types of food, so it’s important to know what they like.

For example, if you want to attract hummingbirds, you’ll need to use a feeder ideal for hummingbirds and offer them nectar instead of seed. The nectar should be 1 part sugar and 4 parts water.

Start with a popular type of bird food or seed

The quickest way to attract birds to a window feeder is by a popular seed such as sunflower seeds. Sunflower seeds are a popular choice for wild birds since they tend to be one of their favorites.

Once birds become accustomed to the feeder, you can start using other popular seeds to attract them.

Popular Bird Seed and Food

Seed Mixes:

When attracting birds to a window feeder, using a seed mix is a great way to go. Different types of birds prefer different types of food, so using a seed mix ensures that you provide various food options for them.

A popular seed mix to use in a window feeder is to use wild bird seed mix. This type of birdseed is great to accommodate nut-loving birds.

A seed mix such as Wagners 62059 Greatest Variety Wild Bird Food is a great choice; it’s made up of all seeds that attract birds, such as black oil sunflower, safflower, peanuts, striped sunflower seed, white millet, sunflower chips, nyjer seed, canary seed, cracked corn, red millet, tree nuts, and raisins.

However, be cautious about purchasing inexpensive wild seed mixes since they contain large quantities of milo and millet. And less of corn, sunflower seeds, and other grains. Birds tend to toss aside the filler seeds. By buying a more expensive wild mixture, you will have less waste and will attract more birds.

Nyjer Seed or Thistle Seed:

When attracting birds to a window feeder, using nyjer seed is a great way to go. Nyjer seed, commonly known as thistle seed, is a favorite of finches.

Nyjer seed is a tiny black seed that is about the size of a sunflower seed. Goldfinches love to eat nyjer seed and will often flock to a feeder that offers it.

Nyjer seed is a favorite of finches and other birds, such as cardinals, jays, quails, redpolls, buntings, doves, siskins, and sparrows.

(Do not buy in bulk, it will dry out before you use it all)

Sunflower Seed:

This seed is ideal for attracting finches, cardinals, grosbeaks, chickadees, and jays. There are even some woodpeckers that will eat sunflower seeds. Sunflower seed may attract bully birds such as European starlings, grackles, and blackbirds who feed on tray feeders.

Safflower:

Though it is not as popular as sunflower or nyjer seed, safflower is still a favorite of birds. Cardinals and grosbeaks are especially attracted to safflower seed, as well as chickadees, titmice, finches, buntings, blue jays, and doves. Woodpeckers may also be attracted to safflower seed, but they are not as commonly drawn to it as songbirds.

White proso millet:

White proso millet is an inexpensive grain that is often used to attract birds. This type of millet is a favorite of quails, sparrows, doves, towhees, juncos, warblers, and cardinals. It is also a great choice for those who want to attract birds but don’t want to spend a ton on birdseed.

Shelled and cracked corn:

Corn is a popular food among most birds. Shelled corn has been taken off the cob, and cracked corn is just what it sounds like corn that has been dried and cracked into pieces.

Shelled and cracked corn are favorites of Quails, Crows, Ravens, Grosbeaks, Jays, House Sparrows, and Cardinals. Since cracked corn is a favorite of House Sparrows and European Starlings, they can become a nuisance and take over your window feeder. You may want to limit corn or add it to another feeder away from your window feeder.

Peanuts:

The peanuts that you put out in your window feeder will attract a variety of birds. Roasted and unsalted peanuts are the healthiest way to feed birds peanuts.

The most common birds you will see are woodpeckers, jays, chickadees, nuthatches, and titmice.

Dried Fruit:

Using dried fruit to attract birds is easy and convenient to get birds to your window feeder. Birds love sweet things; however, it’s not healthy to feed birds food with high contents of sugar.

By giving them something natural such as fruit, is a great healthy alternative to sugary foods. You are sure to get them coming by offering dried fruit in your window feeder. There are various types of dried fruit that you can use, but the most popular choice is raisins, cranberries, figs, prunes, and apricots.

Dried fruit is a favorite among many different types of birds, including thrushes, thrashers, robins, blackbirds, bluebirds, catbirds, mockingbirds, orioles, woodpeckers, and waxwings.

Suet:

Suet is a high-fat, high-energy food made from the rendered fat of beef or mutton. This type of bird food is popular among birds because it is a great energy source.

Some other ingredients that may be included in other suet are peanut butter, cracked corn, peanuts, birdseed, fruit, and mealworms.

The most common birds attracted to suet are woodpeckers, nuthatches, starlings, chickadees, and jays. Occasionally birds such as cardinals, wrens, creepers, warblers, and kinglets.

Sugar Water (Nectar):

The most common birds drawn to this type of bird food are hummingbirds and orioles.

Hummingbirds love sugar water, and they can often be seen hovering around feeders that have this type of food.

Orioles are also attracted to sugar water, and they can often be seen perching on the edges of feeders while they eat.

To figure out what food to put in your window feeder is pretty simple. All you have to do is experiment and look at what birds are visiting when you provide a particular type of food to get an idea of their favorite food sources. Then, determine what food you want to provide to attract the right bird species.

Location is important to attract birds to a window feeder

A bird feeder outside your window is an easy way to attract birds to your home and a great way to enjoy them up close.

Birds need to feel safe when they come to a window feeder, so it is vital to place the feeder in an area where there are few predators. This will keep the birds safe and help them feel comfortable coming to the feeder.

The safest place for a window feeder is away from predators, over bushes, and close enough to surroundings to give birds a hiding spot. This way, birds can flee if they feel threatened.

Finally, ensure that your feeder is in a good location on your window so that your feathery visitors are not disturbed by ground predators or predators in the sky.

Make Your Feeder Visible

One of the main problems with using a window feeder to attract birds is that they are often difficult for the birds to see. This is because most window bird feeders are transparent and are made for you to easily see the birds from inside your home.

There are a few ways to make your window feeder more visible to the birds.

• One way is to use a window that is easily visible for your window feeder. You can also hang colorful decorations near your feeder to help draw the birds’ attention to it. The color red is the most attractive color that will attract birds, but other colors work too.
• Or instead of placing colorful objects around your feeder to intice birds, you can use a window box to plant some colorful flowers underneath your window.
• Another way to make your feeder more visible is to place it in a spot where the sun will hit it. This will help light up the feeder and make it easier for the birds to see.

Lure Birds To A Window Feeder With Other Colorful Feeders

If you have other feeders in your yard that birds are accustomed to feeding from, try moving them closer to your window feeder to help them notice your feeder.

One creative idea is to invest in a brightly colored feeder and add it to your other feeding stations. This demonstrates to the birds that bright colors indicate food. After which, you will move the feeder closer to the window feeder as they grow accustomed to it.

This will aid in them identifying there is food in your window feeder and encourage birds to return for more food.

Window collisions will not be an issue as long as your colorful feeder is placed within a distance of your window feeder. Also, adding bright objects to your windows will help. Birds will notice something there, and they will avoid flying into the window.

Once the bird becomes accustomed and visits your window feeder, try moving the feeder to another location away from the window.

Ground Feed If Possible

Ground feeding is an easy way to attract birds to a window feeder, but this may not be possible depending on the location of your feeder.

If you are able to, start by scattering seed on the ground below your window feeder. When birds find seeds, they’ll investigate where the food may be coming from, and it will be an easy approach to get birds to a window feeder.

Avoid High Traffic Areas

Putting a feeder on a window in a high traffic area is not the best idea, as it can scare away skittish birds.

It is better to put the feeder on a bedroom window or a quiet sunroom window, where there is not a lot of activity so that birds feel safe and do not get scared away by humans or pets.

When placing your window feeder another thing to keep in mind is how much noise the area gets. If there is a lot of noise in the area, it can scare away the birds, and leave the feeder or not visit at all.

Remove Other Bird Feeders

If you have been trying all of the tips mentioned and still have not successfully gotten birds to your window feeder, you may need to remove all of the other bird feeders from your yard.

When there is only one food source available, the birds have no choice but to visit your window feeder. This may take some time to get the birds accustomed to your window feeder, but you will see results in the long run.

Add A Water Source Near Your Window Feeder (Essential For Birds)

Another great way to attract birds to your window feeder is to add a water source nearby. A birdbath will not only provide a place for the birds to drink, but it will also give them a place to bathe.

Birds need a water source to keep their feathers clean and groomed. When they have a bath, they can preen their feathers and remove any dirt or parasites.

Water is also essential for birds, especially in the winter months when cold weather and water can freeze over. The heat can make it hard for the birds to find water in the summer months, so having a water source near your window feeder will attract many birds.

Birds love to play and bathe in water, so adding a birdbath near your window feeder is the perfect way to make them feel at home. Not only will you get to see them feeding, but you also get to see them splash around and play in the water.

Adding a water source near your window feeder is essential if you want to attract birds to your window feeder.

Keep Your Window Feeder Clean

Window feeders are a great way to attract birds to your yard, but keeping them clean is essential to keep the birds healthy and coming to your feeders.

If the feeder is not clean, the birds will not visit, and you won’t attract birds to your feeder.

Dirty feeders can spread diseases and parasites from bird to bird, so it is crucial to keep them clean. Most window feeders are easy to clean, but it is important to clean them regularly.

Keeping your window feeder clean will help keep the birds healthy and attract more birds to your yard.

One way to clean a window feeder is to take it down and wash it with one part bleach and nine parts water. This can be a hassle, especially if you have to do it a few times a week if the feeder gets dirty.

A better way to clean a window feeder is to buy one that can be easily cleaned without taking it all the way down or one that is made for easy cleanup.

Many different types of window feeders can be easily cleaned by just taking out the seed tray, etc.

Be sure to check the window feeder you buy and how it can be cleaned because some may need to be taken down each time to be cleaned. This is important to keep in mind when buying a window feeder for your yard.

Be Patient

Birds are naturally curious creatures, but that doesn’t mean they will automatically flock to your window feeder. It takes time and patience to attract them.

The best way to get them coming back time after time is with patience and consistency.

Birds have their own schedule and don’t really care when you put your feeder out, so it may be a few days before they even notice the bird feeder. Also, many times only a certain number of birds will come to visit at a time.

Give them some time to get used to your yard and how your window feeder works because it can take some birds longer than others to come around. Don’t give up after just a few days of trying.

Be patient waiting for them to visit, and you will see how rewarding it can be when they finally do.

You may enjoy this post How To Hang A Bird Feeder Without A Tree

Additional Information

Types of Window Bird Feeders

There are different types of window bird feeders. It’s essential to choose the right one for your situation and how you want to attract birds to your window. The best type of window bird feeder is the one that is ideal for the bird species you are trying to attract; it should be durable, and easy to clean as mentioned above.

There are two types of window feeders

Suction Cup Feeder:

Suction cups are attached to the window of your house. The most common window feeders have suction cups to attach to your window.

Depending on the model and make, they can handle birds as big as Pileated Woodpeckers. Most feeders are capable of holding squirrels jumping onto the feeder. So, you don’t have to worry about your feeder constantly falling off the window if you install it correctly.

In House/Windowsill Feeder:

A windowsill feeder is a bird feeder attached to the window sill and protrudes inside the home. It’s a common type of feeder that allows you to get even closer when birdwatching. They are often mirrored, so you can see the birds, but they cannot see you.

Also known as an in-house feeder, it attracts common birds such as house finches, goldfinches, chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, and song sparrows.

Types of suction cup feeders

Tube Window Feeder-

A tube window feeder is a type of bird feeder that hangs on the window and has a tube that protects the food inside. Birds usually access the food through small ports on the feeder. This type of feeder is often used to attract smaller birds.

This feeder will attract titmouse, grosbeaks, finches, chickadees, and sparrows.

Tray/Platform Window Feeder-

A platform feeder is not restricted to just one type of bird; any bird can feed on it.

A tray feeder, unlike tube and hopper feeders, is simply a platform with no feeding holes or ports; it helps timid species come to feed.

Birds, including doves, house sparrows, pigeons, starlings, quails, and grosbeaks, will gather around this feeder. Depending on the size of the feeder, you will attract many bigger birds.

Tray with Roof Window Feeder

A tray with a roof feeder is a type of feeder similar to a tray feeder, but it has a roof to protect the food from the weather. The roof protects the food from the rain and snow, and it also helps to keep the food sanitary.

Perfect for finches, goldfinches, cardinals, woodpeckers, bluebirds, robins, warblers, siskins, and nuthatches.  

Suet Window Feeder

Suet feeders allow birds to peck at a solid chunk of food, usually suet cakes. They consist of a wire cage that holds a suet cake in the center. Birds may perch on the feeder as they feed on the food.

Suet feeders are ideal for feeding woodpeckers, jays, starlings, chickadees, and nuthatches. These feeders may bring some wrens, cardinals, creepers, and kinglets to your window.

Hopper Window Feeder

Hopper feeders tend to be a popular choice when feeding wild birds. This type of feeder has an enclosed container or hopper that holds all of the birdseed.

As birds consume the seed, the hopper replenishes it at the bottom tray.

Most birds are attracted to hopper feeders. Depending on the size of a hopper feeder, you can attract birds such as finches, jays, warblers, cardinals, buntings, grosbeaks, sparrows, chickadees, doves, woodpeckers, and titmice. Unfourtanely they are squirrel magnets.

Hummingbird Window Feeder

A hummingbird window feeder is a type of bird feeder that is designed to attract hummingbirds. These feeders typically consist of a perch, a feeding port, and a reservoir that holds the nectar.

How to attach a suction cup feeder to a window?

If you want to attract birds to your window feeder, it is important to have your feeder installed properly. Most window feeders come with a suction cup that attaches to a window.

The suction cup will help keep the feeder in place and make it easy for the birds to feed on.

To attach the suction cup, follow these simple steps:

1. Clean the window where you want to attach the feeder. This is very important as it won’t stick as well if there is dirt or debris left on the window. Let it dry.
2. Clean the suction cups and make sure they are clear of debris. If they need to be wash used warm water and some soap, let them dry.
3. Install on warm glass, as cold glass is harder to get the cups to adhere to. If you are attaching your window feeder during the cold season pick the warmest part of the day when the sun has been out. Another tip is to warm up the suction cups before installing the window feeder.
4. Next, you will use a small drop of oil onto the suction cup and glass, go slightly on this just enough to apply a small layer. You can use cooking oil or vaseline.
5. Press the suction cup against the window and hold for a few seconds until it sticks. Also, it’s important to push on the center of the cup to get all of the air out that may have seeped in as you were installing.
6. Make sure the feeder is level to ensure no spillage of food.

Successful tips to make the most out of your window feeder

1. Do not use water on your suction cups as it will evaporate and your window feeder will not hold up.
2. Always install during the warmest time of day and warm up the suction cups.
3. Purchase a window feeder that is easy to refill and clean.
4. Place window feeder over grass or mulch for easy cleanup of seed, feathers, etc.
5. It’s possible that you’ll want to scare larger bully birds like House Sparrows and European Starlings away, as they will consume all of the food and drive away the birds you want to see. Use cracked corn in another feeder far away from your window feeder to deter them from your windows.
6. Refill your window feeder regularly to continue to attract birds to fresh bird seed and provide a continuous source of food.

How long does it take birds to come to a new window feeder?

Some birds can take longer than others to come around to a new window feeder. Just be patient and keep putting out food; eventually, they will start coming to the feeder. It may take days, weeks, or even months to attract birds to a new window feeder.

Follow all the suggestions above, and they will come!

How do you get birds to use a window feeder? 

One of the best ways to get birds to use a window feeder is by making it visible and known to them. Hang the feeder in a location where the birds can see it from a distance, and make sure to add colorful objects or plants below to entice them.

Another approach is to position a colorful feeder beside your window feeder so they can discover that food is available over here.

Are window feeders any good?

Window feeders are definitely a good option for birdwatching enthusiasts. They offer a clear and close-up view of the birds that come to feed and are easy to use and clean. Additionally, window feeders can be used to attract a wide variety of birds, which is a great opportunity for birdwatching beginners.

When choosing a window bird feeder, it is important to buy a high-quality brand that will last. Cheaper brands may not be as durable or as well-made as expensive brands and may break or fall apart over time. Therefore, choosing a durable feeder made by a reputable brand is important.

Which birds will use a window feeder?

All birds that are attracted to bird feeders will also use a window bird feeder. By positioning your window feeder in a visible spot and adding colorful objects or plants, you can increase the chances of attracting these birds to your feeder.

Will squirrels have access to my window feeder?

There is always a potential for squirrels to access your window feeder. If this becomes a problem, you can do a few things to deter them. One method is to use a feeder that is difficult for squirrels to climb, such as a tube feeder.

You can also try using a squirrel-proof feeder, which has mechanisms in place that prevent the squirrel from getting to the food.

Finally, you can hang your feeder away from trees and other structures that the squirrel could use to climb up to the feeder.

Will birds fly into my windows if I use a window feeder?

There is always a possibility that birds will fly into windows if you use a window feeder; however, it is very unlikely to happen.

Using a window feeder is actually a great way to keep birds from flying into your window. This is because birds can see the feeder from a distance and will know something is there, making it less likely to fly into your window.

Why would I want to use a window feeder?

Birds are often more visible when using a window feeder because they can be seen up close while feeding, which offers an exciting experience for bird lovers.

Additionally, it’s great for families to get up close and personal with birdwatching.

Do window feeders attract insects?

Yes, any feeder can attract insects and other critters, especially if the area is not kept clean and has old food. This is why it is important to always keep your bird feeding station as clean as possible.

Benefits of using a window feeder

Closer To Nature-

Birds are a great way to get closer to nature. By using a window feeder, you can get up close and personal with the birds that come to feed and observe their behaviors up close. This is a great opportunity for bird enthusiasts of all levels and is a great way to connect with nature.

Great for small spaces-

Window feeders are an excellent option for families who live in small spaces, such as apartments. This is because they take up minimal space and are easy to use.

Great for families-

Window feeders are a good way for families to get up close and personal with birdwatching. Additionally, window feeders offer a clear and close-up view for much younger birdwatching enthusiasts.

It gives them a chance to learn about wild birds and the different species that may visit the feeder.

Great for photographs-

Window feeders are great for bird photographs since you can get close-ups of the birds while they are feeding. If you enjoy photography as a hobby or as art, having a window feeder will allow you to capture images up close and personal of wild birds with your camera.

​Attract small birds-

Window feeders are a great way to attract small birds to your backyard. Sometimes it can be a hassle to provide feeding sources for larger birds. Mainly because you don’t want them eating all the provided food and scaring away smaller birds.

Deter predators-

A window feeder gives birds an advantage to eat without being harassed or eaten by a predator.

Allowing them to feed undisturbed will ensure that the birds return and continue eating from your window feeders regularly.

Provide Entertainment-

Window feeders provide a great way for your family, friends, and pets to enjoy watching birds. Many people find the activity to be relaxing and therapeutic, while children are fascinated by how the birds interact at the feeder. It can be a great learning experience for kids to learn about the different birds that visit their backyard.

Not to mention they make great gifts for friends and family!

How to attract birds to a window

Bird seed on window sill

One way to attract birds to a window is to place birdseed on the window sill. This will give the birds a place to land and eat so you can view them right outside your window.

Attract birds with a window bird feeder

Window bird feeders offer a great way to attract birds to your window.

They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, which makes it easy to find one that will fit into your window well.

Additionally, many window bird feeders offer a variety of feeding options so that you can attract a variety of birds to your backyard.

Place flower planters onto your window

Adding a flower planter to your window is a great way to attract birds. The flowers will provide color, nectar, and seeds that birds love, and they will be able to perch on the planter while they feed. This is a great way to get up close and personal with the birds that come to feed and observe their behaviors up close.

Keep noise at a limit

Birds can get spooked by loud noises, especially when they are eating.

Keep the noise level down in your yard while birds are near your windows to ensure that you can get a clear view of them and that they continue to come back without getting spooked.

Provide water near your window

 Keeping a birdbath or fountain near your window will encourage birds to come close to your window and hopefully visit your window to perch on after drinking some water or bathing.

Flowers that can attract birds to your window:

1. Sunflowers  
2.  Coneflowers
3.  Cornflowers
4.  Black-eyed Susans
5.  Daisies
6.  Aster’s 
7.  Marigolds 
8.  Virginia creepers
9.  Elderberries
10.  StagHorn Sumac 

FAQs

Why won’t birds come to my feeder? 

There are a few reasons why birds might not come to a feeder. One reason may be that the feeder is not placed in an area that is safe or visible to birds.

Another reason birds might not come to a feeder is that the feeder is not maintained well, and there is no fresh food available.

Birds are intelligent, and they will go where everything they need is in one place. Make an ideal habitat for birds and provide water sources near feeders.

How to get birds to use a new bird feeder?

When introducing a new bird feeder to your backyard, it is important to remove all other feeders from the area. This will help to ensure that the birds will only visit the new feeder that you have introduced.

It is also important to give the birds time to get used to the new feeder. Birds can be hesitant to try new things, so it may take a little bit of time for them to start using the new feeder.

Be patient, and continue to provide food at the new feeder. Eventually, the birds will start using it.

How do you attract birds quickly?

There are a few ways to attract birds to your feeder quickly. One way is to put out a platform feeder or a tray feeder, which will give the birds a place to perch and an easy food source.

Another easy way to attract birds quickly is to offer sunflower seeds. Sunflower seeds are a favorite food among many birds, so they will be drawn to the feeder quickly. Lastly, you can put up some birdhouses and water sources to give your yard a better chance at attracting birds quickly.

What should you not feed birds?

There are a few things that you should not feed birds, as it can be harmful to their health.

Do not give birds bread, as it can make them sick. Bread is not a healthy food for birds and can cause them to become malnourished.

Also, avoid feeding birds any sugary food or food full of salt. This can also make them sick and cause problems with their digestive system.

Here is a list of foods you shouldn’t feed birds:

• Avocado
• Caffeine
• Chocolate
• Salt
• Fat
• Fruit pits and apple seeds
• Onions and garlic
• Xylitol

Conclusion

So, if you’re looking to get into the hobby of bird watching, or are just looking for a way to bring some beautiful creatures into your backyard, consider investing in a window feeder! Not only will it provide hours of entertainment, but you’ll also be helping out the local bird population.

How far away from a window should a bird feeder be?

Are window bird feeders a good idea?

How do I get birds to notice my window feeder?