What attracts birds to a feeder?

Do birds come to a feeder because they see the seed or smell it?

Most birds have some sense of smell but it is poorly developed in seed-eating songbirds. They come to feeders because they see the seed or because they see other birds feeding.  They also notice the sound of other birds congregating at feeders. Birds are very inquisitive; they investigate something new.

Occasionally it takes only a few hours for birds to begin using a new feeder. More likely, though, it may take days or even weeks until the birds notice that you've spread a banquet for them. The variation depends on the distance to bird habitat, density of nearby feeders and the kinds of birds that might chance on the new feeder. Chickadees, titmice and House Sparrows are especially quick to locate new feeders, according to the National Audubon Society.

If there are a lot of feeders in your neighborhood, birds may find your feeder more readily as they already associate feeders with an easy meal, the Audubon Society advises.

To make your new feeder more enticing, place some seed on top of the feeder or on a nearby platform, or scatter the seed on bare ground near the feeder. The sight of the seed will draw more attention to the feeder.

Don't worry if it takes time for birds to become accustomed to a new feeder. You will have more success if you keep the feeder replenished with good quality seed at all times. If the seed runs out, so will the birds.