8 Common Bird Feeder Mistakes—And How to Fix Them

Setting up a bird feeder is a great way to attract wild birds to your yard, but simply filling a feeder with birdseed isn’t enough. To successfully draw in a variety of birds, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that could discourage them from visiting. Experts in wildlife and bird conservation share the most frequent bird feeder errors and how to fix them for a thriving backyard bird sanctuary.

Putting Out Too Much Feed

Many people get excited when setting up a new bird feeder and overload it with seed. However, this can lead to waste and spoilage. “If you don’t have many birds around, don’t put out too much seed when you start,” advises Maren Gimpel, associate director of Foreman’s Branch Bird Observatory. “It may take birds a while to find your feeders, and seed doesn’t last forever.” Starting with smaller amounts—especially with costly seed like nyjer or hulled sunflowers—ensures freshness and prevents waste.

Using Only One Type of Feeder

A single feeder may attract some birds but won’t appeal to all species. Different birds have different feeding preferences. “A variety of feeders can increase your bird diversity,” says Gimpel. While finches and chickadees prefer perch feeders, larger birds may need platform feeders. For birds that don’t eat seeds, like hummingbirds and woodpeckers, consider adding a nectar feeder and a suet feeder to broaden your backyard birdwatching experience.

Placing the Feeder in the Wrong Location

Where you place your feeder matters. Incorrect positioning can make birds vulnerable to predators like cats and can increase the risk of window collisions. John Griffin, senior director of Urban Wildlife Programs at the Humane Society of the United States, suggests placing feeders at least 12 feet away from dense shrubbery to prevent ambushes. Additionally, to reduce window strikes, position feeders either within 3 feet of a window or at least 30 feet away.

Neglecting to Clean the Feeder

A dirty feeder can harbor mold, bacteria, and diseases that harm birds. “Just as you don’t want to eat from dirty dishes, birds appreciate having clean plates,” Gimpel says. She recommends scrubbing feeders regularly with a bottle brush and rinsing them with a mild bleach solution. Griffin advises using a mix of nine parts water to one part bleach every two weeks to maintain a sanitary feeding station.

Offering Only One Type of Seed

Birds have diverse dietary needs, and a single type of seed may not appeal to all species. “It’s best to use a mixed bird seed to attract a variety of birds,” says Kathleen Rogers, president of http://Earthday.org . Black oil sunflower seeds are a favorite for many species, but adding safflower, thistle, cracked corn, millet, and canary seed can expand your visitor list. Avoid feeding birds bread or salted nuts, as they are unhealthy and potentially harmful.

Not Providing Water

Birds need water year-round, not just in summer. “Fresh water is essential for birds, so always leave water bowls in the yard and ensure they don’t freeze over in winter,” Rogers advises. In snowy conditions, birds can become especially thirsty, making accessible water sources even more critical.

Using Stale or Spoiled Food

Birds can detect stale or spoiled seed, even if it looks fine to humans. Brian Cunningham, chief naturalist at Wild Birds Unlimited, warns that fluctuating temperatures and humidity can cause bird food to spoil or attract insects. “Keep your feeders filled with only a one- or two-day supply of seed to ensure freshness,” he suggests. Additionally, store birdseed in airtight, pest-proof containers and never mix old seed with new.

Giving Up Too Soon

New feeders may take time to attract birds. “If you have not yet been feeding birds, a new feeder may take from one day to several weeks before birds discover it,” Cunningham explains. Keeping the feeder clean and food fresh will help encourage visits. Once birds find your feeder, they will return regularly, so patience is key.

By avoiding these common mistakes and making small adjustments, you can create a welcoming, safe, and nourishing space for birds to visit all year round.