Did I hang the feeder too high?

Question

Hello, I am very new to the whole birdwatching/feeding thing, so forgive me if the question is really basic, but I have recently bought a feeder and hanged it on my balcony (I live in the flat), it looks like this:

The height is about 2.3m (7.5 ft). 
 It's been about a week, but no bird has come to visit, although there are quite a lot of birds in the area. Is this normal or am I positioned my feeder too high? 
 
 Thanks, Max

maxf · Accepted Answer

I have repositioned the feeder like this: 
 
 It took about 4 weeks of waiting, but now I have started consistently noticing great tits feeding from it, hooray!

stealthybutnotthatstealthy · Answer

I am no expert in bird feeding......however, most birds aren't going to like any overhang. They are more than happy to have branches above themselves, but I'd have thought a ceiling would put most birds off......it would also make it very hard for them to notice it, and recognise it as food.....just my opinion.

WendyBartter · Answer

Welcome to the forum Max ... I agree that the feeder isn't in a good position as the overhang would certainly restrict the birds access ... I would think balcony rail height or a little higher would be good as they will then have a useful perch! Do let us know of any visits after repositioning!

2013 photos & vids here

eff37 on Flickr

Richard G B · Answer

It can take 2 or 3 weeks for birds to come to a new feeder, but hanging it lower certainly won't do any harm.

stealthybutnotthatstealthy · Answer

Unknown said: It can take 2 or 3 weeks for birds to come to a new feeder, but hanging it lower certainly won't do any harm. 
 Or longer. I know somewhere that gave up. Was a back garden with a small lawn and backed on to countryside. I can imagine flats taking at least 2-3 weeks at the very best, and where it currently is sited, indefinitely.