When it comes to feeding wild birds, bird seed blocks are a great option. Seed blocks provide a concentrated source of energy and nutrition for birds. But where is the best place to put a bird seed block in order to attract birds to your yard or garden? There are a few things to consider when deciding where to place bird seed blocks.
Hang the Seed Block in a Tree or Shrub
One of the best places to put a bird seed block is hanging in a tree or shrub. Choose a location that provides some shelter from wind, rain, and snow. Areas near dense cover or with overhanging branches make good spots. Hang the seed block on a branch using string, twine, or wire. Make sure it’s secured well so it doesn’t fall. Place it at eye level or higher so cats and other predators have a harder time reaching it. Birds like chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, and woodpeckers will cling to the branches and trunk as they snack on the block.
Advantages of Hanging Seed Blocks in Trees
- Provides shelter and protection
- Makes it harder for predators to reach
- Allows small clinging birds easy access
Disadvantages of Hanging Seed Blocks in Trees
- Can swing and sway in wind or storms
- Needs a suitable tree or shrub located nearby
- Somewhat limits the types of birds that can access it
Mount the Seed Block on a Post or Platform Feeder
Another good option is to mount the bird seed block on a post or platform feeder. You can purchase feeders made specifically for seed blocks or make your own simple platform for the block to sit on. Position the feeder near trees or bushes so birds have a place to perch and take cover. Place it 5 to 7 feet off the ground so squirrels and cats can’t reach it as easily. Birds like finches, sparrows, juncos, and doves will perch on the platform while feeding.
Advantages of Platform Feeders
- Gets the block off the ground and away from predators
- Allows easy access for perching birds
- Keeps block in place and prevents it from being knocked to ground
Disadvantages of Platform Feeders
- Requires purchasing or building a feeder
- Needs to be positioned near trees or cover
- Larger birds may knock block off platform
Place the Seed Block on a Flat Surface
You can also simply place the bird seed block on a flat surface near trees or shrubs. Position it on top of a fence post, large rock, stump, or deck railing. You can also set it directly on the ground, but make sure to choose a spot that stays relatively dry. On the ground, opt for gravel, pavers, or a patch of short grass. Placing the block on a flat surface allows easy access for larger birds like grackles, starlings, jays, and crows.
Advantages of Flat Surfaces
- Very simple to place and secure
- Allows access for the widest range of bird species
- Can be positioned in a variety of locations
Disadvantages of Flat Surfaces
- More accessible to predators
- Seed block may get knocked off its perch
- Not ideal if area is prone to a lot of rain or snowmelt
Give Birds Time to Find the Seed Block
Once you’ve positioned the bird seed block, be patient. It may take a few days for birds to discover it. Try placing it in a spot where you often see birds feeding. Start by placing just one block out at first. Once birds find it, you’ll see traffic increase as they tell their flock mates. You may eventually be able to provide multiple seed blocks in different feeding zones around your yard.
Provide Other Foods to Attract More Species
While you want birds to utilize the seed block, also offer other supplemental foods too. Different birds have unique food preferences. Offering a variety will attract more species to your yard. Here are some other feeding station ideas:
- Hopper or tube feeder with mixed birdseed
- Suet feeder or mesh bag with suet cakes or chunks
- Nyjer feeder stocked with nyjer seed for finches
- Fruit halves secured to a platform or skewer
- Meas and grit in a small tray or box
- Nectar feeder for hummingbirds
- Ground feeding station with millet, cracked corn, and other grains
Give Them Fresh Water Too
Birds need a reliable clean water source for bathing and drinking. Providing fresh water can encourage more bird activity near your seed block. Options include:
- Birdbath with dripping water feature
- Mister attached to a tree or post
- Water garden or pond with a recirculating waterfall
- Shallow dish that is cleaned and refilled regularly
Position water sources within view of your seed block to maximize activity. Dirty or frozen water will not attract as many birds.
Maintain the Seed Block
Check the seed block regularly and replace it as needed. Seed blocks will soften and deteriorate when exposed to rain, snow and moisture. Discard blocks if they become waterlogged, soiled, or start growing mold. Providing birds with fresh dry blocks will encourage continued use.
Here are some tips for maintaining seed blocks:
- Inspect blocks daily
- Replace if over 50% is consumed
- Discard if block seems wet, dirty, or moldy
- Remove old seed debris under feeder
- Wash feeders periodically with soap and water
- Provide fresh unfrozen water daily
Try Different Seed Block Recipes
Seed blocks come in a variety of recipes with different ingredients. Try out a few kinds to see which blend the birds in your area seem to like best. Here are some common seed block recipes to test:
Block Type | Primary Ingredients |
---|---|
Basic Blend | Black oil sunflower seeds, cracked corn, millet |
Fruit & Nut | Raisins, peanuts, sunflower seeds |
No-Mess | Sunflower chips, mealworms, no shells |
Suet Infused | Suet, seeds, nuts, fruit |
Finch Treat | Nyjer seed, thistle, millet |
Oriole Delight | Peanuts, orchard fruit, orange slices |
Keeping notes on which recipes the birds frequent most can help you determine the ideal seed block for your yard. Offering a variety over time may attract more species.
Use Caution with Additives
Some commercial seed blocks contain additives like coloring, bindings, and humectants to help hold the block together. While small amounts of these additives are generally not harmful to birds, it’s best to avoid heavily treated blocks. Look for options without dyes, artificial binders, and preservatives whenever possible.
Here are some potential drawbacks of additives in seed blocks:
- Artificial coloring serves no purpose and may be unsafe if consumed
- Chemical humectants help retain moisture but may grow mold
- Binders like wax or polymers aren’t digestible for birds
- Preservatives help prolong shelf life but aren’t necessary
- Mold inhibitors prevent spoilage but traces could transfer
Your best bet is to choose plain seed blocks made with just seeds, nuts, and dried fruit formed with natural binders like corn meal or flour. Or make your own additive-free blocks at home.
Protect Seed Blocks from Damage
Seed blocks are vulnerable to damage from rain, snow, and predators. Consider adding a cover over your seed block to help protect it. Here are some options:
- Plastic dome that mounts above the block
- Metal cage with mesh sides to enclose the block
- Roof structure mounted over a pole, post, or hanger
- Recycled plastic container with drainage holes and a perch
- Plastic litter or cat pan flipped upside down over the block
Even a makeshift cover like an upside down flower pot with the hole enlarged can help shield blocks. Just be sure the covering doesn’t limit access for larger birds.
Monitor for Predators
Seed blocks will also attract unwanted attention from squirrels, rats, raccoons, and other predators. Keep an eye out for these sneaky thieves. Here are some deterrents to try:
- Place block in an exposed area away from hiding spots
- Apply hot pepper powder or spray on and around the block
- Install a motion-activated sprinkler, noise maker, or flashing light
- Use metal poles and non-chewable wire to hang or mount the block
- Apply squirrel repellent spray to nearby trees and perches
- Trap and relocate persistent nuisance animals if necessary
The more you discourage predators initially, the less likely they’ll be to return and cause problems in the future.
Conclusion
Bird seed blocks provide essential energy and nutrients to help wild birds survive. With a little trial and error, you can find the ideal placement for a block that allows safe access for desirable bird species in your yard. Consider hanging it from a tree, mounting it on a platform feeder, or simply placing it on a flat surface. Provide additional foods and fresh water to attract more birds. Check blocks regularly and replace them as needed. Experiment with different seed block recipes and styles. And take steps to safeguard your feeder from damage and theft by predators. With the right set up, seed blocks can draw in colorful songbirds to brighten your garden all season long.