It is usually best to place your feeder in an area of less disturbance. But do place it where it's easy to see and fill.

The feeder should be near trees and shrubs that offer shelter and protection. If you are fortunate to have evergreens they will provide good wind protection and safety from predators. You'll want to keep the feeders no less than 10 feet away from the foliage to prevent squirrels from jumping to the feeder. That is also a good distance to provide protection from predatory cats. A loosely-packed brush pile near feeders will protect small ground-dwelling birds.

Platform feeders are commonly placed high on a post, hung from a tree, pole, overhang ... even nailed to a deck rail. If supported by legs they can be placed on the ground which juncos, towhees and sparrows prefer. Remove the legs if you are feeding ground dwelling birds . . . like quail.

If you'd like to enjoy birds up close get a platform window feeder designed to attach to the outside of your window. These specialty feeders will attract chickadees, cardinals, titmice and finches, among others, for a real up-close view.To see some great choices visit Best Window Feeders. When the page opens select Window Feeders.

Feeders need to be kept clean and can be washed with soap and water. Dipping them into a mild bleach solution (nine-parts water to one-part bleach) will rid them of any mold or bacteria that might have invaded. Be sure to rinse the platform feeder well and let it dry completely before refilling.

Platform feeders are designed to contain seed but not prevent it from being scattered. There are some solutions if scattered seed becomes a concern . . .

• First, it is helpful to feed seeds that birds prefer . . . i.e. black-oil sunflower seed or a good-quality seed mix. When preferred food is offered birds have less desire to "scratch" around looking for their favorite seeds. Why waste your money on seeds the birds won't eat.
• Second, hang a catch-tray underneath the feeder. It can be something as simple as a screen to catch seed or any sort of collection device on the ground.

Be sure to rake up the seeds and debris under your feeders periodically. Decomposing seed hulls can harbor bacteria which could spread disease to your feathered visitors.

Platform feeders should be an integral part of every wild bird feeding program. The beauty and charm of the variety of birds these feeders attract is enchanting. Knowing that we are helping them survive one backyard at a time is further reward.