Hi Sonia:

Great question because we are dealing with this one for Lake Eola.

First, the feeder pole must sit 3 feet from the bank in the water so that predators can't get to the food. The pole needs to be sunk 1 1/2 feet to 2 feet into the water. Place the feeder on the pole and keep the bottom of the feeder about 6-8 inches above the water. This can be adjusted in times of flood or drought.

Take some mixed food and give a handful to the swans. Throw the food right below the feeder door. Tap on the door so that the swans can see what you are doing. Once you tap on the door, throw a small amount of food again just below the feeder door. Do this for a couple of days until the swans get to the point that the understand that the food is in the feeder. You may have to slightly open the trap door so that they can more easily find the food. You may even try to balance a piece of bread at the opening of the feeder so the swans get a good look into the feeder. Once they locate the food, you will be the first to know as the swans will let you now that there is no more food in their feeder!!!

We placed the feeders at Lake Eola on a Saturday and by Sunday, people were seeing some swans feed from the feeder. So, it may take a few days for some swans while others will immediately go to the feeder. In any case, they will get the picture real quick and use the feeders constantly. Hope this helps. The Regal Swan