Backyard Birdwatching 2

Catbird on a perch at my feeder.

Bird feeder placement is an important part of your backyard birding success. You have to decide where you would like to watch from. Maybe you would like to view them from your kitchen window or the living room or maybe from a nice comfortable seat on the back patio. Making the birds easier to see will improve your birdwatching experience and also allow you to keep an eye on the seed supply and whether or not the feeder needs cleaning. Once you've picked a place for the feeder, make sure it is in a spot that is easy to get to in inclement weather. That way you can keep the feeder stocked when they are at their most vulnerable and need it the most. Another consideration : Is the bird feeder located in a spot where you won't mind birdseed flying all over the place? Birds are messy eaters and seed will scatter. Bird droppings can be an issue as well, so keep these things in mind when choosing a spot for your feeder.

My two birdwatchers,Betty and Madelaine.

Predators should also be considered. You wouldn't want to serve up your new feathered friends within easy reach of your neighbors cat or out in the open where they might fall prey to a hawk.It is a good idea to place your feeder near some greenery,such as bushes or a low hanging tree. This will give your birds a place of refuge and not leave them too open and approachable by predators.

Another possible predator.

Predators are out there and will occasionally visit your backyard. Over the years I've had a bluebird and a woodpecker taken right in front of me and my son by a red-tailed hawk. The bluebird was taken from behind while perched on her nesting box and the woodpecker was on my kitchen window screen.You can't stop the circle of life from happening,but you can control it some with proper placement.

            Tube feeders are another option and well liked by this male and female American Goldfinch pair.

                                                          The male Goldfinch, close up.

Good luck with your bird feeder and keep these things in mind when you first put one up. You'll be enjoying beautiful new scenery and songs provided by nature, right in your own backyard.