When it comes to hanging a hummingbird feeder near your house, it’s important to consider the safety of the birds. While window hummingbird feeders are designed to be safe for birds, other types of feeders should be hung at least 15-20 feet away from windows. This is because windows can pose a hazard for hummingbirds.
Hummingbirds are known for their incredible hovering ability and can easily become disoriented or confused by reflections in windows. This can lead to them flying into the glass, causing injury or even death. Therefore, it’s important to hang your feeder far enough away from windows to minimize the risk.
If you choose to hang your feeder directly on a window, make sure it is a window hummingbird feeder specifically designed for this purpose. These feeders are typically made of clear or tinted plastic and have suction cups to attach them securely to the window. They are designed to prevent birds from colliding with the glass and provide a safe feeding station.
However, if you opt for a traditional hanging hummingbird feeder, it’s best to hang it at a distance of 15-20 feet away from windows. This distance is important because it reduces the chances of hummingbirds mistaking the reflection in the glass for a clear flight path.
It’s important to note that hanging the feeder at a distance of 15-20 feet from windows is crucial to avoid areas in-between. If the feeder is hung too close to a window, the risk of collisions increases. Therefore, it’s best to choose a location that is a safe distance away from any windows.
In my personal experience, I have witnessed hummingbirds becoming startled or confused by their own reflections in windows. I once had a feeder hung too close to a window, and I noticed a hummingbird repeatedly flying into the glass. It was clear that the bird was mistaking the reflection for an open space. Thankfully, I was able to quickly move the feeder further away from the window and the bird stopped colliding with the glass.
To summarize, it’s important to hang your hummingbird feeder at least 15-20 feet away from windows to ensure the safety of the birds. Window hummingbird feeders are an exception and can be safely hung directly on the window. By following these guidelines, you can provide a safe feeding station for hummingbirds and enjoy their presence without putting them at risk.