Best Bird Feeders for Your Backyard: Top Picks for 2024
Bird watching is a popular hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. One of the best ways to attract birds to your backyard is by using a bird feeder. A bird feeder is a device that dispenses bird food to attract a variety of bird species. Bird feeders come in different shapes and sizes, and they can be made from various materials, such as wood, plastic, or metal.
When looking for the best bird feeder, there are a few critical things you should consider. First, you need to decide what type of bird you want to attract. Different bird species have different feeding habits, so you need to choose a feeder that caters to their needs. For example, if you want to attract hummingbirds, you need a feeder that dispenses nectar. If you want to attract finches, you need a feeder that dispenses thistle seed.
Another important factor to consider is the material of the bird feeder. The material should be durable, weather-resistant, and easy to clean. The size of the feeder is also essential, as it should be large enough to hold a sufficient amount of bird food, but not too big that it becomes difficult to clean or refill.
We spent hours researching and testing various bird feeders to identify the ones that are the best in terms of design, functionality, and durability. In the next section, we will discuss the top bird feeders that we recommend for bird enthusiasts.
Best Bird Feeders
We know that feeding birds can be a fun and rewarding experience, but choosing the right bird feeder can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best bird feeders on Amazon to help you attract and feed a variety of birds in your backyard. Our list includes feeders that are easy to fill and clean, durable, and designed to keep squirrels and other critters at bay. Whether you’re a seasoned bird watcher or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best bird feeders.
1) Hanizi Hanging Bird Feeder Squirrel Proof for Outdoor Wild Bird Seed, Outside, Garden Yard Decoration (Brown) 01: Brown 01:47 oz
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use bird feeder that is both durable and squirrel-proof, the Hanizi Hanging Bird Feeder may be the perfect choice for you.
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We recently used the Hanizi Hanging Bird Feeder in our garden, and we were impressed with its ease of use and durability. The feeder is incredibly easy to set up – simply open the lid, pour in the birdseed, and hang it up. The twist lock mechanism ensures that squirrels won’t be able to get into the feeder, which is a big plus for us.
One of the things we really appreciated about this feeder is its clever design. The inclined roof helps to keep the seeds dry, while the tray is designed to refill itself as the birds eat. We also liked that the feeder is made of clear plastic, which makes it easy to see when it’s time to refill.
While the Hanizi Hanging Bird Feeder is a great choice for most birds, it may not be suitable for very large birds. Additionally, if it rains heavily, the tray may accumulate water, which can be a bit of a hassle to deal with. Finally, while the feeder is durable and functional, it may not be as aesthetically pleasing as some other feeders on the market.
Overall, we highly recommend the Hanizi Hanging Bird Feeder for anyone looking for an easy-to-use, durable, and squirrel-proof feeder. It’s a great choice for both novice and experienced birdwatchers alike.
2) iBorn Metal Bird Feeder for Outside Hanging
We highly recommend the iBorn Metal Bird Feeder for Outside Hanging for your feathered friends.
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The iBorn Metal Bird Feeder for Outside Hanging is a well-made and attractive feeder that is perfect for outdoor use. The drain holes really make a difference, and the top doubles as a rain guard. The feeder is easy to assemble and disassemble, and cleaning it is a breeze. The feeder is sturdy and looks like it will last a long time. However, the feeder is wide enough so that you cannot see the birds on the other side, and the tray could be larger for bluebirds and cardinals. Overall, the iBorn Metal Bird Feeder for Outside Hanging is a great product, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality bird feeder.
3) KRUOO Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder
If you’re looking for a bird feeder that keeps squirrels and large birds away, the KRUOO Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder is a great option. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars with 2,322 ratings on Amazon.
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If you’re looking for a bird feeder that’s truly squirrel-proof and made of chew-proof material, the KRUOO Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder is worth considering. It accommodates multiple birds, has a large capacity, and is great for attracting wild birds. However, it may not be suitable for those looking for a feeder with a larger capacity, and some customers have reported difficulty filling and cleaning it.
4) TT Nature Smart Bird Feeder with Camera Solar Powered, AI Identify 6000+ Bird Species, Auto Capture 1080P Bird Videos, Bird-Watching Wood Bird Feeder, Christmas Birthday Gift for Bird Lover
If you’re looking for a bird feeder that is both functional and eco-friendly, the TT Nature Smart Bird Feeder with Camera is a great option.
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We were impressed by the TT Nature Smart Bird Feeder’s AI identify feature, which can accurately identify each visitor and provide detailed information about their history, habits, and favorite foods. The built-in microphone and speaker also allow for two-way audio communication, capturing bird sounds and deterring squirrels from approaching the feeder.
The feeder’s 2 million pixels 1080P HD video consistently captures breathtaking bird videos, while the wireless bird camera’s 155° ultra-wide angle and built-in 4x magnification allow for up-close observation of bird friends’ feathers. The feeder’s solar power source and low-power battery provide 3-4 months of standby time under normal conditions, saving 70% on charging time.
Overall, the TT Nature Smart Bird Feeder with Camera is a great option for bird lovers looking for a functional and eco-friendly feeder that also incorporates modern technology.
5) AMOEJOV Hummingbird Feeder with Camera
If you’re looking for a bird feeder that can do more than just hold seeds and nectar, the AMOEJOV Hummingbird Feeder with Camera might be just what you need. Its advanced features allow you to capture high-quality videos and photos of birds while also identifying different species.
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We were impressed with the AMOEJOV Hummingbird Feeder with Camera’s advanced features, including its accurate motion detection system and AI identification feature. The 1080P HD camera captures high-quality images and videos, making it easy to study bird behavior and interactions.
The feeder’s 2-in-1 design allows you to hold seeds and nectar in the same feeder, while the large-capacity granary and feeding trough make it easy to attract a variety of birds. The feeder is also easy to install and clean, making it a great addition to any garden.
Overall, we would recommend the AMOEJOV Hummingbird Feeder with Camera to anyone looking for a high-quality bird feeder with advanced features.
6) Armorcope Bird Feeder with Camera
If you’re a bird lover who wants to capture every moment of birds visiting your backyard, then the Armorcope Bird Feeder with Camera is a must-have for you.
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The Armorcope Bird Feeder with Camera is easy to install and comes with upgraded solar panels, making it a great option for bird lovers who want to upgrade their birdwatching journey. The bird feeder camera can auto-capture and identify all bird species, and you will receive real-time notifications of feathered visitors via the phone app.
The two-way audio function allows you to hear birds’ voices and chase away annoying squirrels, making it a great way to keep your backyard bird-friendly. The bird feeder camera also has a 1080P HD camera with color night vision, allowing you to get the best shots of birds, even in the dark.
The bird feeder camera comes with free cloud storage for 3 days videos and can store images or videos of birds in the cloud. You can easily organize the lovely moments into a beautiful collection to admire and share with your friends and family. It’s an ideal gift choice for your parents or spouses because it can strengthen the bond of your family.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a bird feeder camera that can easily capture and identify all bird species, provide real-time notifications, and allow you to watch birds on your phone anytime, anywhere, then the Armorcope Bird Feeder with Camera is a perfect choice for you.
7) NETVUE Birdfy Lite – Smart Bird Feeder with Camera
Upgrade your bird watching experience with the NETVUE Birdfy Lite – Smart Bird Feeder with Camera. This revolutionary bird feeder allows you to watch birds on your phone anytime, anywhere. With its 1080P color night vision, you can see birds clearly even at night and capture close-up details with 8X magnification. The birdhouse camera is professionally designed as a beautiful home for your backyard birds, and its bird-friendly features will attract all kinds of birds.
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We highly recommend the NETVUE Birdfy Lite – Smart Bird Feeder with Camera for bird lovers who want to upgrade their bird watching experience. With its advanced features and bird-friendly design, it is a great addition to any backyard.
8) Twinkle Star Wild Bird Feeder Hanging for Garden Yard Outside Decoration, Hexagon Shaped with Roof Bird Feeders for Outdoors (Grey) Gray
If you are looking for a sturdy and easy-to-use bird feeder, the Twinkle Star Wild Bird Feeder is an excellent choice.
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We recently purchased the Twinkle Star Wild Bird Feeder and were impressed with its design and functionality. The feeder came fully assembled and ready to hang, which was a big plus for us. The hexagon shape with an inclined roof provides shade and shelter from the sun and rain. We noticed that the birds seemed to enjoy the feeder and were comfortable using it.
The large capacity of 2.15 pounds of seeds was suitable for us, and we were able to attract a variety of birds such as finches, tits, blue birds, warblers, starlings, and more. The clear panels made it easy to inspect seed levels, and refilling was a breeze. We appreciated that the feeder was equipped with a twist lock cover that kept the lid safely closed and the seeds fresh and dry.
One downside of the feeder is that the plastic material may not be as durable as metal or wood feeders. We also noticed that falling seeds may attract unwanted animals like squirrels. However, we were able to mitigate this by placing the feeder in a location that was difficult for squirrels to access.
Overall, we recommend the Twinkle Star Wild Bird Feeder for anyone looking for a sturdy and easy-to-use bird feeder that attracts a variety of birds. Just be sure to check the feeder regularly for insects or fungi and wash it with mild soap and water solution.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best bird feeder, there are several factors to consider. We’ve compiled a list of features to keep in mind to help you make an informed decision.
Material
Bird feeders can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and wood. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Plastic feeders are lightweight and easy to clean, but may not be as durable as metal or wood. Metal feeders are sturdy and long-lasting, but may rust over time. Wooden feeders are attractive and can blend in with outdoor surroundings, but may require more maintenance to prevent rotting.
Capacity
The capacity of a bird feeder refers to how much seed it can hold. Consider the number and types of birds that frequent your area when choosing a feeder with an appropriate capacity. A larger feeder may be necessary if you have many birds visiting, while a smaller feeder may be sufficient if you have only a few.
Design
Bird feeders come in various designs, including tube, hopper, and platform feeders. Tube feeders are typically long and narrow and are best for small birds like finches and chickadees. Hopper feeders have a larger capacity and can accommodate larger birds like cardinals and jays. Platform feeders are open and flat and are ideal for ground-feeding birds like sparrows and juncos.
Features
Additional features to consider when choosing a bird feeder include:
- Squirrel-proofing: Some feeders come with mechanisms to prevent squirrels and other animals from accessing the seed.
- Easy to clean: Look for feeders that are easy to disassemble and clean to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
- Weather-resistant: A feeder that can withstand various weather conditions will last longer and provide a safe place for birds to feed.
- Perch or no perch: Some birds prefer to feed while perched, while others prefer to cling to the feeder. Choose a feeder with or without a perch depending on the types of birds you want to attract.
By considering these factors, you can find the best bird feeder for your needs and enjoy watching birds visit your yard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can we squirrel-proof our bird feeder effectively?
Squirrels can be a nuisance when it comes to bird feeders. To squirrel-proof your feeder, consider purchasing a feeder with a squirrel-proof mechanism, such as a weight-activated perch or a cage around the feeder. You can also try placing your feeder on a pole with a baffle to prevent squirrels from climbing up.
What types of bird feeders are best for attracting small birds?
Small birds such as finches and chickadees are attracted to tube feeders with small perches and ports. These feeders are designed to dispense small seeds such as nyjer and sunflower chips. Hopper feeders with smaller openings can also attract small birds.
Which bird feeders are most suitable for withstanding rainy weather?
Bird feeders made of metal or plastic are the most suitable for rainy weather. Look for feeders with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating in the feeder. Also, consider purchasing a feeder with a rain guard or cover to protect the food from getting wet.
What should we look for in a bird feeder that accommodates large birds?
Large birds such as jays and woodpeckers require larger perches and ports to access the food. Look for feeders with wider openings and sturdy perches to accommodate these birds. Also, consider purchasing a feeder with a larger capacity to reduce the need for frequent refilling.
What design features make a bird feeder ideal for winter conditions?
In winter, bird feeders should be designed to keep the food dry and accessible. Look for feeders with a roof or cover to protect the food from snow and rain. Also, consider purchasing a feeder with a built-in heating mechanism to prevent the food from freezing.
Which bird feeders are known to attract cardinals specifically?
Cardinals are attracted to feeders with larger perches and ports that can accommodate their size. Look for feeders with a hopper design and a tray or platform base to provide enough space for cardinals to perch. Also, consider using a feeder that dispenses safflower seeds, which are known to be a favorite of cardinals.