How to Hang Bird Feeders From a Line

Hanging a bird feeder helps keep squirrels, raccoons or other pests away from the feeder. The concept is to remove the feeder from the contact with poles, posts or trees the pest animal can climb, making access to the bird feeder impossible for them. Hanging the bird feeder from a line involves a few basic carpentry skills but falls within the skills of most do-it-yourself birdwatchers.

Things You'll Need

• Posts (optional)
• Rope or wire
• Bird Feeder

Instructions

1. Pick the ideal location for the feeder. Squirrels can jump amazing distances so the hanging feeder location must be spaced at least 10 feet from surfaces where the squirrel can approach the feeder. This includes trees, shrubs and fences other than the posts or trees used to support the line from which the feeder will hang.

2. Attach a line between two points at least 20 feet apart and 5 feet above the ground. Use rope, wire or cable made for clothes lines. Check for conveniently placed trees but, if none are present, dig 3-foot deep post holes at the proper locations. Set the post in the holes and tamp the ground back into the hole around the post.

3. Hang the bird feeder from the center of the line between the posts or trees. Tie two knots of rope around the main line spaced about an inch apart. Depending on the hanging system of the bird feeder, you can wrap a wire around the main line and the hanger of the bird feeder.

Tips & Warnings

• Add squirrel deterrents, such as domes or shields, above the hanging feeder to discourage squirrels from jumping from trees or shrubs to the top of the feeder.

References

• Wild Birds Forever: Squirrels
• Bird Feeders: Hanging Bird Feeders