What type of predator ambush point do dense shrubs pose near a feeder location?
Answer
Perfect ambush points for predators like Cooper’s Hawks
Goldfinches exhibit high levels of predator awareness, which significantly dictates whether they visit a feeding station. Placing feeders too near objects that obscure their view or provide cover for attackers, such as dense shrubs, overgrown hedges, or building eaves, creates ideal ambush locations. These spots are frequently utilized by raptors such as Cooper’s Hawks seeking to surprise their prey. If their approach to the seed offering is obscured, the finches will typically assess the risk as too high and choose to bypass the feeder altogether.

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