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The Window Bird Feeder"I'd like to use a window bird feeder, but my cat sits on the sill and stare out the window. Will the birds still come?"Glad you asked. Felines are really bad for birds. But, put some glass between them, and things look up. Well, after a bit of time, anyway. And only for some of the birds. Well, with more time, for most of the birds. Your sparrows will brave the feeder first. They will learn to ignore the feline that never attacks them. Inevitably, other birds will follow. BUT...
For best results, place your window bird feeder where the cats can't see it!
What Type Of Window Feeders Are Available?All kinds of types are available. As you read the articles on this web site, you'll notice a recurring theme--warranty, warranty, warranty! But not this time.Why? Because it's all about the suction cup! Companies like Droll Yankee and Aspects do carry warrantied products. Frankly, their suction cups suck, and so the feeders have a tendency to fall from the window (you'll need that warranty!) I'm not real fond of their design either. The feeders are kind of small. I recommend the Looker Products window feeders. They are made of wood (cedar, which weathers well)and so do NOT carry a warranty. However, the suction cups on their feeders really adhere to the window. If you pull hard enough at a Looker Products window feeder without first releasing the cups, you'll literally separate the feeder from the suction cups!
The company carries lots of models. My recommendation is to go with the tray model, which has great drainage and affords the most activity. Put safflower in it to keep the grackles and starlings at bay.
When Should I Put Up A Window Feeder?Anytime is the right time to use this style of feeder. However, keep in mind that these feeders are not the best way to start a station. Better to begin with a hopper feeder. This style of feeder is the work horse of a backyard bird feeding and will attract lots of birds. Once the station is active, supplement it with a window feeder.Here is a list of birds that will visit a window bird feeder:
I should mention another favorite window bird feeder built by Looker Products--the woodpecker window feeder. It's a great way to get these birds close, though you may hesitate to use it should your house be made wood. The feeder holds a standard suet cake, and I recommend using hot pepper suet or plain suet to deter grackles, starlings and squirrels. There are other window bird feeder options available. The Birding Company makes a feeder that situates inside the window frame. A locking bar fastens the feeder to the frame, and the window shuts down onto the feeder. The birds enter the compartment style feeder and once inside, are quite literally in your house. You can see the birds, but they can't see you. It's a very cool feeder, but pricey, and a bit inconvenient. However, I have customers at my brick and mortar who swear by this feeder. And finally, you can always hand a bracket from you window (again, if the bracket uses suction cups, be sure they are strong--Looker Products has great brackets). Off of that bracket, hang a feeder. I recommend Songbird Essential's clinger, as it is light weight and very popular among small birds. The trade off? Cardinals can't eat from it.
The point really is to be sure your feeder is light enough that the bracket can handle the weight!
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