Are Bird Feeder And House Combos Okay For Birds? Here's What We Know

Two-in-one products usually seem like a good idea — more bang for your buck, so to speak — like bird feeder-house combos. These products appear to be a great way to attract birds to your garden, giving your local avians a convenient place to dine and nest. Plus, they optimize limited outdoor space that may not accommodate individual feeders and houses. However, some things are better separated than together.

While seemingly genius, a bird feeder that doubles as a nesting box isn't the best option for wildlife, as birdhouses are meant to be private spaces for the flyers to nest, while feeders are open to all hungry critters. Given how different their purpose and the number of birds they serve at any given time are, bird feeder-house combos would only be a disservice to your local wildlife. In fact, it's something you may be doing that could actually hurt birds. However, it's still possible to provide birds with safe places in your yard to raise their young and munch on nuts.

Bird feeder-house combos pose a safety risk for those nesting in the residence. Plainly, bird feeders attract more than just birds. Raccoons and deer like the seeds too. Coyotes, foxes, hawks, and cats are also lured in by the frenzy of birds stopping by. Having a birdhouse conjoined to the feeder means the flyers are in a hot spot for predators. A feeder-house combo is also unsuitable for breeding birds. The pair won't want other animals around, so nesting in there would force them to fend off all the visitors at the feeder, taking energy away from raising the hatchlings. Even a nearby birdbath is too high-traffic for a nesting box.

If you want to have both a feeder and birdhouse in your yard, skip the combo and get individual structures. Mount them 15 feet away from each other so the birds can nest and dine in peace. If your outdoor space is limited, opt for either or. You can have a bird feeder and let the natural environment be the birdhouse. Just place the feeder 10 feet from shrubs and trees so birds have a convenient spot to perch and build nests. The distance also gives them quick access to shelter in case predators are lurking, while also providing a safe buffer from squirrels leaping out of the branches. On the other hand, the best place to put your birdhouse depends on the species. Some like dense vegetation while others prefer an open field. The right configuration will give birdwatchers a sight to enjoy and keep their local avians safe.