Based on the latest data it has been found that birds take 10 days on average to find a new bird feeder. Based on the location of the feeder, time of the day and the safety of the environment, it can extend to 18 days and if the bird is a local species then it can even take 5 days to locate the feeder. It has been estimated that a bird in Utah would take 18 days and a bird in Arizona would take 6 days on an approx.
So, let’s get to the details and understand why there is a variation in the days for different birds in finding the new feeder.
Time Involved for a Bird to Find a New Feeder
You might have to set up a new bird feeder but there are no birds visiting it, and this can be frustrating, but you have to be patient and consistent with your effort as birds take time to discover new feeding zones. They also go through a lot of tried and tested strategies to understand whether the place would be safe for them and then they venture into the bird feeder
Birds are always looking out for food and water sources so eventually they will get to your bird feeder. Now, let’s get to understand what factors decide the duration before which a bird can identify the new feeder.
Birds Species
Bird species that live near the feeder are likely to discover the food area much more quickly than the one that lives far away. Also, there are some species that trust more or rely on feeders, than others. Particularly the birds whom you get to see near the feeder are seen looking for easy access to food sources. Based on facts, it has been found that the first to find feeders are chickadees and followed by them are sparrows, bluejays, goldfinches and woodpeckers.
Time of the Year
There are certain seasons when setting up a bird feeder becomes really difficult to attract the birds. So, grab proper knowledge of what time you want to set up the feeder. If the feeder has been set during the nesting season then less number of birds would visit as most of the birds are busy taking care of their young ones. However, if the feeder is set in late summer or early fall, then birds can easily come to the feeder as they are looking for food sources.
Setup of the Backyards
Birds are quite picky so the setup of your backyard would determine whether birds would visit your bird feeder. They are always in search of a safe location and a feeder that is easily visible but not exposed. So, you have to place the bird feeder at the right location for the birds to fly in and fly out with ease in case of approaching predators. You can place the feeder near trees or bushes but not too close; otherwise, it would attract squirrels or other invaders.
Neighbourhood Bird Feeder
If you find that you have already set up a bird feeder for quite a long time, then it will become challenging for you to attract birds; as the local birds have already been into a habit of visiting your neighbours’ bird feeder and also gained comfort and safety. So, you have to provide them with additional elements that would attract them.
How Can You Help Burst to Find New Feeders?
There are multiple ways in which you can guide a bird to visit your bird feeder, such as:
Setting Up Multiple Feeders with Different Food
If you want to invite different birds living in your area, then you have to make species-specific bird feeders and also provide them with the diet they prefer. So, keep multiple bird feeders having different types of seeds so that the birds can get tempted by the options and start visiting your backyard every day.
Keep the Feeder Full
Whenever birds visit your bird feeder, they must find food which would make your garden a reliable stop for them while finding food sources. So, if the feeder must be full to motivate the birds, visit it regularly.
Keep the Feeder Clean
Birds are quite picky so you need to take care of the hygiene in and around the feeder. Try to clean the feeder once a month and this decides how long it will take for the birds to find the feeder. You won’t like it when the birds visit and they find the feeder dirty. So, remove the half-eaten seeds or leftovers to avoid infestations of any pest or spreading bacterial infection.
Spread the Seeds to Provide a Sign
It is difficult for birds to see what is inside the bird feeder, so you have to sprinkle some seed on top of the feeder, around it, on the ground. This would increase the likelihood that the bird would notice the seeds and would visit the bird feeder.
Provide Water and Shelter
Along with food, you must also provide additional elements to the birds so that they get tempted to visit your bird feeder. You can provide them water and shelter which will increase the chance of attracting the birds. You can install nest boxes or perches for the birds to hang out. Alongside this, you can also install a bird bath with a fountain as the sound of water usually attracts the birds.
Why are Birds not Visiting Your New Feeder?
There are possible chances that birds may not visit a new feeder,
- If there are enough natural food resources available
- If the feeder is not placed in an ideal location.
- If there is a presence of predators around the bird feeder.
- The seed that you have provided them is not quite appealing.
- The bird feeder color is intimidating.
Does it Take Time for Birds to Get Used to a New Feeder?
Yes, birds take a little time to trust the new feeder and they constantly check whether it is safe or comfortable to eat from the feeder. So, it takes some time the adjust as different bird feeders have different types of perches, food dispensers and levels of stability.
Which is the Right Location to Place the Bird Feeder?
If you are trying to set up a new bird feeder along with the existing feeders, then you have to place each of them at least 10 feet away from the natural shelters, such as trees and shrubs. Try to hang the feeders and mount them at least a distance of 3 m to 15 m from the window.
What are the Different Types of Seeds You Can Try for the Bird Feeder?
Usually, people fill the bird feeder with different types of seed; rather you can try a blend of black oil sunflower seed which is a healthy option and attracts a variety of birds. You can also try to thistle or nyjer, but inspect them regularly as they have a tendency to become soiled. So, you need to replace them and provide something fresh every day. Allow the bird to get accustomed to the new feeder, and then you can gradually go for a mixture of different types of seeds.
Should You Get a Hanging Bird Feeder?
Yes, birds love hanging bird feeders but you have to provide them a safe and convenient feeding spot. Also, you have to provide them access to fresh fruit and perching spots along with the hanging bird feeder to attract various bird species.
