Do chickadees prefer hanging feeders or platform feeders?

Chickadees typically prefer hanging feeders, since they are tree-foraging birds and they like to go where they can cling or perch and grab a quick meal. However, they also enjoy open feeders, so a hanging or pole-mounted platform feeder can be a good choice for chickadees, too. Luckily, chickadees are not terribly picky about bird feeders, and they will gladly dine at tube feeders, mesh feeders, and hopper feeders.

Where should chickadee feeders be placed?

Chickadee feeders should be placed in the vicinity of shrubs or trees that provide nearby cover, but not so close that predators can reach them. Place them 10 to 15 feet from trees or shrubs, at least 5 feet in the air, and either fewer than 3 feet away from windows or farther than 20 feet away to prevent collisions. Choosing a quiet location with a clear flight path can also help chickadees feel more comfortable visiting the feeder.

How often do chickadees visit feeders?

Chickadees usually visit feeders often, coming by many times throughout the day. Their frequent, short visits mean food can disappear quickly even when only a few birds are present, so be sure to get a chickadee feeder that holds enough for these hungry little backyard birds.