Platform Bird Feeders


Platform bird feeders are some of the simplest designs you will find in a feeder. Built as an open platform or feeding areas, the platform serves as both the landing area or perch, and also is the area that hold the bird seed or food.

One of the more popular types of bird feeder, platform feeders can be used with a number of types of bird food,. Because of the open construction, these can attract species of birds that won't use enclosed feeders like tube feeders. This include many ground feeding birds.

Locating Platform Feeders: This is actually a very versatile type of feeder, and they can be mounted in placed other feeders won't work. If you are trying to attract ground feeding birds, typically it will be mounted just above the ground, or in a relatively low spot such as a tree stump or a low post. Another great choice is an unused bird bath pedestal. If you like to put your feeders where you can see them from the house, you may try mounting one on your patio, using one of the posts. To avoid the loss of seed in high winds you may want to choose a spot that is a little sheltered from the wind.

When choosing the bird seed to put out, consider which birds you are trying to attract. Birds that will come to platform feeders include: tufted titmice, jays, junjays, painted buntings, chickadees,Cardinals, especially Northern Cardinals, sparrows and doves.

Of course, as with any feeder, you can't ignore the squirrels and other pests like cats. You might want to try one of the platform feeders that have a roof that is high enough to allow the birds to feed, but low enough that a squirrel can't jump on the feeder and stay put. If that's not enough to deter the squirrels then you may need to put the feeder on a hanger away from squirrel jumping off points like roofs and branches.

With platform feeders you need to have good drainage so the seed won't rot. Many platform feeders provide drainage with a mesh bottom. If you use a mesh bottom feeder but sure to clean the mesh on a regular basis as the fine mesh used in these feeders can easily clog with debris.