Bird watching brings **loads of happiness** to people. It’s a *super enjoyable* pastime! Setting up bird feeders draws **colorful birds** right to your backyard. Bird feeders offer yummy treats, which helps birds eat easily without searching for food. However, the variety of feeders available makes choosing the right one a *bit challenging*.
When looking for the best bird feeder, there are several things to consider. The first thing to consider is the type of bird you want to attract. Different birds prefer different types of food, so it’s essential to choose a feeder that will attract the birds you want to see. Another thing to consider is the size of the feeder. If you have a large yard, you may want to choose a larger feeder that can hold more food.
The material of the feeder is also important. Some feeders are made of plastic, while others are made of metal or wood. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to choose a feeder that is made of a material that will work best for your needs. Finally, the ease of cleaning is an important factor to consider. A feeder that is easy to clean will be more hygienic and will last longer.
After researching and testing various bird feeders, we have identified the best bird feeders on the market. These feeders are designed to attract a variety of birds and are made of high-quality materials that are built to last. Additionally, they are easy to clean, making them a great choice for anyone who wants to attract birds to their yard.
In the next section, we will take a closer look at each of the bird feeders we recommend and explain why they are the best options available.
Best Bird Feeders
We know how important it is to attract birds to your yard, whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or simply enjoy the peaceful sound of chirping birds. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best bird feeders on the market. Our team has researched and tested various feeders to bring you a selection that is durable, attractive, and most importantly, effective at attracting a variety of bird species. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best bird feeders available.
iBorn Metal Bird Feeder for Outside Hanging
If you’re looking for a durable and easy-to-use bird feeder, the iBorn Metal Bird Feeder is a great option.
Pros
- With a 2.3lb capacity, this bird feeder can hold enough seed to reduce the number of regular fills.
- The 18cm roof on the iBorn bird feeder provides ample shelter from wind and rain, keeping seeds dry and fresh.
- The feeder is easy to clean and disassemble, making it simple to maintain and keep your bird feed fresh and healthy.
Cons
- The feeder’s stainless steel hanger is fixed in place, which can make it difficult to adjust the feeder’s position.
- The feeder’s six ports may not be ideal for attracting larger birds, such as pigeons or crows.
- Some users have reported that the feeder can be difficult to refill, especially when using larger seeds.
Overall, we recommend the iBorn Metal Bird Feeder for its durability, ease of use, and large capacity. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting out, this feeder is a great addition to any backyard.
Brome Squirrel Buster Plus Bird Feeder
If you’re looking for a bird feeder that is truly squirrel-proof, the Brome Squirrel Buster Plus Bird Feeder is a premium product that is worth the investment.
Pros
- The squirrel-proof mechanism is highly effective, preventing squirrels and large birds from accessing the bird seed.
- The feeder comes with a Cardinal Ring System that allows cardinals to perch and feed comfortably.
- The feeder is durable and comes with a lifetime care warranty, ensuring that you’ll have a peaceful bird feeding experience for years to come.
Cons
- The feeder is on the pricier side compared to other bird feeders on the market.
- The capacity of the feeder is 3 quarts/5.1 pounds, which may not be sufficient for those looking to feed a large number of birds.
- The feeder requires a pole adaptor for pole mounting, which is sold separately.
We’ve been using the Brome Squirrel Buster Plus Bird Feeder for several months now and we’re impressed with its squirrel-proof mechanism. The openings in the shroud align with the feeding ports, allowing birds access to the food. When a squirrel climbs onto the feeder, its weight automatically forces the shroud down, closing access to the ports. We’ve seen squirrels try to access the feeder, but they’ve been foiled every time.
The Cardinal Ring System is a great feature that allows cardinals to feed comfortably. We’ve noticed that cardinals prefer to face their food source, and the custom grip profile of the ring system allows them to do just that. We’ve seen more cardinals at our feeder since we started using the Brome Squirrel Buster Plus.
The feeder is made of durable materials and comes with a lifetime care warranty. We appreciate the company’s commitment to sustainability and longevity in their products. The feeder is easy to clean and has held up well in all types of weather.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality bird feeder that is truly squirrel-proof, the Brome Squirrel Buster Plus Bird Feeder is a great investment. While it may be pricier than other bird feeders on the market, the peace of mind it provides in preventing squirrels from stealing bird seed is worth it.
Wild Wings Cedar Hanging Tray Feeder
If you’re looking for a durable and versatile bird feeder that can attract a wide variety of birds, the Wild Wings Cedar Hanging Tray Feeder is an excellent choice.
Pros
- This feeder’s tray design accommodates large birds like Cardinals and Jays, and its versatile format allows for feeding all seeds as well as dried fruit, in-shell peanuts, and whole corn to attract a great variety of birds.
- The wide opening of the feeder makes it easy to fill and clean, and the removable fresh seed tray lifts out for easy cleaning, preventing mold and bacterial growth to keep birds healthy.
- The fresh seed tray rain drainage keeps seed fresh by allowing water to drain and air to flow freely, which means less rotted and wasted seed!
Cons
- Some users may find this feeder a bit on the small side.
- While this feeder’s tray design is great for accommodating large birds, it may not be ideal for smaller birds who prefer to cling to perches while feeding.
- The feeder’s open design may make it more susceptible to squirrels and other critters trying to steal the birdseed.
We were impressed by the Wild Wings Cedar Hanging Tray Feeder’s durable construction and the wide range of bird species it attracted. The tray design is perfect for accommodating large birds, and the feeder’s removable fresh seed tray makes it easy to clean. However, some users may find the feeder a bit small, and the open design may make it more susceptible to squirrels and other critters trying to steal the birdseed. Overall, we think this feeder is a great choice for birdwatchers looking for a versatile and durable feeder to attract a wide variety of birds to their backyard.
Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Max Bird Feeder
If you’re looking for a bird feeder that’s both squirrel-proof and bird-friendly, the Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Max Bird Feeder is a great option.
Pros
- The weight-activated Seed Shield and Sure-Lock cap keep squirrels out and prevent them from removing the lid, ensuring that your feathered friends get all the food.
- The patented Flexports allow birds to feed at an optimal position outside of the port, offering better visibility and making them feel safer, so they stay longer.
- The four ladder-style perch pads are designed to fit both small and large birds, so all your favorite species can enjoy the feeder.
Cons
- The plastic eating space can be easily broken by larger birds or squirrels.
- Some large, aggressive feeders like Bluejays and Grackles can tear away at the Flexports, causing waste.
- Squirrels are clever acrobats, so placement is key to ensure a 100% squirrel-proof feeder.
We’ve been using this feeder for a few weeks now and have been impressed with its design and functionality. The weight-activated Seed Shield and Sure-Lock cap have kept squirrels out, while the Flexports have allowed birds to feed comfortably and safely. The ladder-style perch pads are a great feature, accommodating birds of all sizes.
However, we did notice that some larger birds and squirrels can cause damage to the Flexports and plastic eating space. Additionally, proper placement is crucial to ensure that squirrels can’t reach the feeder. Overall, we would recommend the Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Max Bird Feeder for anyone looking for a squirrel-proof feeder that’s also bird-friendly.
Twinkle Star Wild Bird Feeder Hanging for Garden Yard Outside Decoration, Hexagon Shaped with Roof *Bronze
If you’re looking for a simple and affordable bird feeder that can attract a variety of bird species, the Twinkle Star Wild Bird Feeder is worth considering.
Pros
- The hexagon shape and inclined roof provide shade and protection from the sun and rain, making it a great option for outdoor use.
- It has a large capacity and can hold up to 2.15 lbs of seeds, which means you won’t have to refill it as often.
- The clear panels make it easy to monitor seed levels and know when it’s time to refill.
Cons
- The feeder is made of plastic and may not be as durable as other materials.
- It may not be squirrel-proof, so you may need to take additional measures to keep squirrels away.
- Some users have reported that the plastic may become brittle over time and break.
We’ve been using the Twinkle Star Wild Bird Feeder for a few weeks now and have enjoyed watching different bird species visit our yard. The feeder comes fully assembled and ready to hang, which is a nice convenience. We’ve filled it with black oil sunflower seeds and have attracted finches, blue jays, and woodpeckers, among others.
The feeder is easy to fill and clean, thanks to the twist lock cover that keeps the lid securely closed. We appreciate the design of the feeder, which allows birds to perch and eat comfortably. The tray on the bottom is a nice touch that makes it easier for birds to access the seeds.
Overall, we think the Twinkle Star Wild Bird Feeder is a good value for the price and is a great option for anyone looking to attract birds to their yard. Just be aware that it may not be as durable as other feeders and may require additional measures to keep squirrels away.
Buying Guide
When choosing a bird feeder, there are several important factors to consider in order to ensure that you select the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
Material
Bird feeders can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, wood, and glass. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, plastic feeders are lightweight and easy to clean, but may not be as durable as metal or wood feeders. Glass feeders are attractive and easy to see when they need to be refilled, but can break easily.
Feeder Type
There are several types of bird feeders to choose from, including tube feeders, hopper feeders, suet feeders, and platform feeders. Each type is designed to attract different types of birds and has its own unique features. For example, tube feeders are great for attracting small birds like finches and chickadees, while suet feeders are ideal for woodpeckers and nuthatches.
Capacity
The size of the feeder’s capacity will determine how often you need to refill it. If you have a lot of birds visiting your feeder, you may want to choose a larger capacity feeder so that you don’t have to refill it as often. On the other hand, if you only have a few birds visiting, a smaller feeder may be sufficient.
Ease of Cleaning
Keeping your bird feeder clean is important for the health of the birds. Look for feeders that are easy to disassemble and clean, with no hard-to-reach areas where mold and bacteria can grow.
Price
Bird feeders can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. While a more expensive feeder may have more features, it’s important to choose a feeder that fits within your budget.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best bird feeder for your needs and enjoy watching a variety of birds in your backyard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I squirrel-proof my bird feeder?
Squirrels are notorious for raiding bird feeders and stealing the food. To squirrel-proof your bird feeder, you can use a baffle or dome to prevent squirrels from climbing up the pole or jumping onto the feeder. You can also use a weight-activated feeder that closes off access to the food when a squirrel tries to get to it.
Which bird feeders are best for withstanding rainy conditions?
Bird feeders made of durable materials such as metal or plastic are best for withstanding rainy conditions. Look for feeders with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating inside. Also, consider using a rain guard or cover to protect the feeder from getting soaked.
What features should I look for in a bird feeder for winter use?
In winter, it’s important to choose a bird feeder that can withstand harsh weather conditions. Look for a feeder made of durable materials that won’t crack or break in freezing temperatures. Also, choose a feeder with a large capacity to hold enough food for birds during the winter months.
What type of bird feeder is suitable for attracting small birds?
Small birds such as finches and chickadees prefer feeders with small perches and ports that are designed specifically for their size. Look for tube feeders or mesh feeders that can accommodate small seeds such as nyjer or thistle.
How can I prevent large birds from monopolizing my bird feeder?
Large birds such as pigeons and crows can be a nuisance at bird feeders, scaring away smaller birds and consuming all the food. To prevent this, choose a feeder with small perches and ports that are too small for larger birds to access. Also, consider using a caged feeder that allows small birds to enter but keeps out larger birds.
Are there bird feeders available that come with built-in cameras?
Yes, there are bird feeders available that come with built-in cameras, allowing you to watch birds up close and personal. These feeders often have Wi-Fi capabilities and can be connected to your smartphone or computer for easy viewing. However, they can be more expensive than traditional bird feeders.