How to install a window bird feeder

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How to install a window bird feeder

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Monday, 8 July 2019 at 8:31 am

It's fun to see which birds visit your feeders. Get closer by installing a window bird feeder.

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Latest RSPB Guidance on bird feeding.

Due to the spread of avian diseases, the RSPB no longer advises the use of flat-surface bird feeders. Find out more here. August 2026

RSPB bird feeding advice. Chris Gomersall/RSPB Images

Bird feeders designed to stick to the window are all well and good, but can you be sure birds will be brave enough to fly that close to the house? Follow these simple steps and the birds will be queuing up to offer you a close encounter.

You Will Need

Bird table
Post
Window feeder
Bird seed

Total time: 20 minutes

Step 1

Setting the feeder close to the house

Set up a bird table close to the house, then screw the window feeder to a separate pole in the ground so birds get used to feeding from it.

Step 2

Moving the feeder closer to the house

Each week move the pole and feeder a little closer to the house. Keep it topped up with feed in preference to any other feeders in your garden.

Step 3

Fixing the bird feeder to the window

Within a few weeks you'll be able to take the feeder from the pole and attach it to the window, where the birds will continue to visit.

Kate Bradbury says

For the best chances of attracting birds to your feeder, ensure there is shelter nearby, where birds can hide in between feeding trips. Shelter can include a hedge or bush, or even a selection of climbing plants on a trellis.

Kate Bradbury

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