Are Window Bird Feeders Safe?

Window bird feeders are perfect for bird lovers who don’t have enough space for a large bird feeding pole or table but still want to feed their local birds. These feeders come in a variety of different designs and are usually attached to the window with a strong suction cup.

However, it is estimated by the British Trust for Ornithology that up to 33 million birds die in the UK each year from collisions with windows. This begs the question: do window feeders perpetuate this issue by encouraging birds to fly close to windows for food? Are window bird feeders safe for our feathery friends? Keep reading to find out!

Are Window Bird Feeders Dangerous for Birds?

Most window feeders are actually designed to reduce the risk of window collisions. Window feeders help birds recognise the solid surface of the window, thus reducing the risk of collisions caused by reflections.

Also, if the feeder is placed close to the window, even panicked birds are less likely to gain enough speed to injure themselves if they fly into the glass after eating. This is why it is recommended to place all kinds of bird feeders within 3 feet of windows as birds approaching a feeder to eat will fly in at a very different angle compared to birds that are trying to fly through the window, believing there is a tree or tunnel in the distance.

However, if your window feeder becomes particularly busy, there is still a chance that nervous birds will scatter and see a reflection in the window that they will try fly towards, causing window strikes. For tips on how to prevent accidents like this from happening, check out the list below!

Window Bird Feeder Tips

• Using dots, decals or other window alerts will help birds recognise glass barriers and avoid collisions.
  
  
• Always elevate your window feeders at least 5 feet off the ground to protect your local birds from predators like cats.
  
  
• Position your feeder near a natural shelter like a bush or tree so that they can quickly escape if they sense danger. This will also make them more likely to visit!
  
  
• Avoid placing your window feeder near high traffic areas like living rooms or kitchens where movement and noise may scare birds away.
  
  
• Make sure you clean your window feeder at least once a week to protect your garden birds from diseases.

Benefits of Window Bird Feeders

• Window feeders are a great option for people who live in a flat or building with no outdoor space.
  
  
• Window feeders allow bird lovers to see their favourite garden birds up close without disturbing them.
  
  
• A huge variety of birds enjoy using window bird feeders, so you’re sure to see a variety of your local birds.

So, are window bird feeders safe? Yes! Window bird feeders offer a safe way to get up close and personal with your favourite garden birds while also protecting them from window collisions.

To see our full range of window feeders, click button below and if you have any further questions about the safety of window feeders or any of our other bird feeding products, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and a member of our team will be happy to help.

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