Bird feeding from a tree offers a natural and attractive setting, but requires careful consideration for the well-being of both the tree and the visiting birds. Improper hanging can compromise a tree’s health by damaging its bark or restricting its growth, a process known as girdling. It is also important to ensure the feeder placement provides a safe environment for the birds, minimizing the risk of predation or window collisions. Focusing on structural integrity, safe attachment methods, and strategic positioning creates a successful and long-lasting feeding station.
Selecting the Best Branch and Height
Selecting the right branch requires checking its structural integrity to ensure it can support the feeder’s weight, especially when full of seed or wet from rain. Look for a branch that is healthy, free of cracks, and at least 1.5 inches in diameter for a standard feeder. The optimal height for most common songbirds, such as cardinals and chickadees, is generally between five and six feet off the ground, which also makes refilling and cleaning convenient.
Positioning the feeder within this height range also helps keep it out of reach of ground-level predators. Bird safety is also determined by the feeder’s location relative to windows, as collision is a major threat. To prevent fatal bird strikes, place the feeder either within three feet of a window or more than ten feet away. A close distance prevents birds from gaining the speed necessary for a deadly impact, while a greater distance allows them space to navigate safely.
Methods for Attaching the Feeder Safely
The hardware used to hang the feeder must prioritize the tree’s vascular system, which lies just beneath the bark. Using tree-saver straps or wide, non-abrasive webbing is the preferred method, as these materials distribute weight over a larger surface area. This prevents the strap from cutting into the bark as the branch grows. If using rope or twine, select a UV-resistant, non-stretching material that is wide enough not to abrade the bark.
For heavier feeders, metal chains or specialized S-hooks can be employed, but they must minimize contact with the branch surface. A common mistake is driving fasteners like nails, screws, or staples directly into the trunk or major limbs. This compromises the tree’s natural defenses, creating entry points for pests and diseases. Instead, utilize a heavy-duty, over-the-branch hanger that rests on the limb without penetrating the wood.
Strategies for Deterring Squirrels and Other Pests
Squirrel deterrence is challenging when hanging a feeder from a tree, as the tree provides the pathway for access. The most effective strategy involves maximizing the horizontal distance between the feeder and the tree’s trunk or any other leaping point. Position the feeder so it hangs at least eight to ten feet away from the tree trunk or any adjacent structure, such as a fence or roofline, to prevent squirrels from jumping to the feeder.
You can also install a dome-shaped or conical baffle directly above the hanging feeder, which acts as a physical barrier to prevent squirrels from climbing down the line. The baffle must be wide enough that the squirrel cannot reach around it and should be secured tightly to the hanging mechanism. Additionally, fill the feeder with less desirable seeds, such as safflower, which many birds enjoy but squirrels generally dislike.