Dumpsters become birds'' best friends. Bird feeders, therefore, act as invitations for city birds to lead suburban lives. There are other cautions. A study by Project FeederWatch determined that half of all reported mortalities at feeders occurred near windows. Put the feeder at a safe distance, say 7 to 15 yards away from the window.
People can also do harm by putting out feed that is likely to go uneaten.
The uneaten seeds usually end up on the ground. It's not only a waste but attracts squirrels, rats, and other animals. Squirrels also frequently invite themselves to feeders. One method of squirrel-proofing is placing a garbage can lid or old phonograph record above the feeder as a baffle. The squirrels land on a wobbly surface and fall to the ground.