Introducing the TMB BBF1 bluebird feeder to the birds

[David in Stafford,VA]

For those that use this feeder, or for that matter any feeder, I have some questions about initial introduction to the birds. How did you go about getting the birds to notice the feeder? Where did you locate the feeder in relation to the nestbox? What did you use as an introductory food and amount that you used? Did you experience any interference from other birds?
Thanks

• This topic was modified 5 years, 12 months ago by David in Stafford,VA. Reason: correct feeder notatiion
• This topic was modified 5 years, 12 months ago by David in Stafford,VA.

David
Stafford, VA

[nhhawk6]

David, I have never used a feeder during the nesting season. I always feed a small handful, on the ground directly beneath one of my beech trees, about 25 feet from the nestbox. It has been part of their routine for years, and I never did anything to “train” them, per se. They are always scanning the ground for insects, so there was really nothing for me to do. I just made certain they saw me place them there, the first time, and that was it. They always bring the fledglings to the same spot under the tree, as well. Feeders necessitate a bit of training, as they are up in the air, but they will do just fine.

Randy
Bedford, New Hampshire

[David in Stafford,VA]

Thanks Randy. I have too many cats in the neighborhood for ground feeding. I would rather keep them in the air. That is why I am trying this feeder.

• This reply was modified 5 years, 11 months ago by David in Stafford,VA.

David
Stafford, VA

[Carol – Mid-Mo.]

I have used a cage feeder for MANY years and love it! I really don’t remember exactly how I got them trained to go in, but believe I used an open bowl at first. Of course, with just the open bowl you will get large birds (bluejays, cardinals, etc.) also and I do not have enough dollars to do that. It does take persistence. As far as location, it needs to away from the nestbox some, but not too far, as they will feed the babies when they get old enough. I have one box about 150′ from where my cage feeder is and they will fly to it in a heartbreak, but most of the time they use two boxes which are closer. NO GROUND feeding in my area unless you are sure they will bobble them up in a minute or so – this is just an invitation for something to pounce on them in my opinion, but some people get by. Good luck.

[David in Stafford,VA]

Thanks Carol. I don’t have that much space but can locate it around 50 to 60 feet away. I do have a shepherds hook plant hanger that I set up as a perch for them about 30 feet from the box. Both of them sit there as they alternate feeding chores now. I was thinking about putting the feeder behind the hook and away from my deck where it is between their “watching” location and hook. I wikk see how it goes.

David
Stafford, VA

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