Adding feeders for bird food is simply the best step to enliven your view outside the window. Feeders provide a proper, safe, and easily accessible option for your birds to eat food. Plenty of options for these feeders can be found in the market, so you can have best bird feeders for different types of birds​.
As your backyard or garden will expect a variety of birds with a need for different types of food, you might be indecisive about selecting the right option for your home. Keeping that in mind, we’ve created a list of unique bird feeders.
List of 12 Best Bird Feeders Types | An Overview
When you are fond of feathered creatures, having a feeder might be a basic necessity, as you must care for their hygiene and health. For a bunch of birds coming back to your garden on daily basis, you can invest in some feeder for birds. Let’s get to know each type for an informed purchase.
Image | Product Name | Specifications | Ideal For | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Platform Bird Feeders |
|
| |
 | Hopper Bird Feeders |
|
| |
 | Tube Bird Feeders |
|
| |
 | Window Bird Feeders |
|
| |
 | Suet Bird Feeders |
|
| |
 | Hummingbird Bird Feeders |
|
| |
 | Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders |
|
| |
 | Fruit Bird Feeders |
|
| |
 | Nyjer Bird Feeders |
|
| |
 | Peanut Bird Feeders |
|
| |
 | Seed Bird Feeders |
|
| |
 | Solar Powered Bird Feeders |
|
|
1. Platform Feeders
Also named platform bird tray feeders these platform feeders are the best and the simplest choice for dispensing feathered friends’ food. If you are looking for the best bird feeders for large birds, this is the best choice that can accommodate multiple birds for feeding easily. It has a simple rectangular base with edges on all sides to prevent food spilling. They can store a variety of foods like seeds, fruits, and nuts, which is why they attract multiple birds. They can be suspended or mounted on posts, stumps, or deck railings. You can find these feeders in different style like metal or plastic, handmade wooden, and a versatile design 3-in-1 platform feeder. It is the great option for attracting wild birds.
Kingsyard Platform Bird Feeder for Outside, Recycled Plastic Hanging Tray Bird Feeders with Large Capacity 3.5 lbs, Premium Quality & Durable, Great for Attracting Wild Birds, Green
- Brand: Kingsyard
- Target Species: Blue Jar
- Recommended Uses For Product: Seed
- Material: Plastic
- Special Feature: Durable
Also read 5 Simple Homemade Bird Food Recipes | Guaranteed Health & Safety
2. Hopper Feeders
Hopper, also called “house feeder” is the best bird feeders for small birds, provides a continuous supply of seeds. This bird food dispenser is the best choice for holding a lot of seeds and keeping them fresh and dry. Hopper feeder is available in heavy-duty, rust-resistant metal. It can be hung on a tree branch to make it easy to access for birds. weatherproof designed to withstand outdoors’s harsh conditions. It’s covered roof like structure keeps seed dry in rainy and snowy weather. Also, the functional compartments allow you to keep different seeds.
Kingsyard Bird Feeder for Outside, Dual-Use Metal Mesh Wild Bird Feeder with Weatherproof Dome Dual
- Brand: Kingsyard
- Target Species: Cardinal
- Recommended Uses For Product: Seed
- Material: Metal
- Special Feature: Weatherproof
3. Tube Feeders
Looking for best hanging bird feeders? Tube feeders with a removable cap are another best choice to dispense bird seeds. The tube is easiest to use and hangs feeders from all options, allowing pet parents to target numbers, species, and sizes of birds. These tube bird feeders are small and long but effective feeders that keep the food fresh and guard against spoilage. It has about 6 metal feeding ports that prevents squirrels against nibbling. Although these are best bird feeders for finches, multiple birds can eat at once. It has bird friendly lift up lid that ensure easy refill and transparent tube monitors the amount of seed levels in the tube.
FEED GARDEN Metal Tube Bird Feeders for Outdoors Hanging, 6-Port Bird Feeder for Outside, Finch Feeders for Outside, Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders with Heavy Duty Metal Lid, Chew-Proof
- Brand: FEED GARDEN
- Target Species: Finch
- Recommended Uses For Product: Seed
- Material: Metal
- Special Feature: Long Lasting, Heavy Duty, Easy-Refill Top, Rain Proof, Rust Resistant
4. Window Feeders
If your concern is closely watching birds in your backyard, bird window feeders are the best choice to settle for. These feeders are designed particularly to avoid window collisions. It comes with a unique design of plastic hoppers that need to be fixed on windows using suction cups, allowing firm grip and easy access for refilling. With the simple yet elegant design, they have 5 strong suction cups. The slopy style avoid seed spoilage during snow, windy, rain, and even against sunlight. Seeds can be easily refill using the removable tray.
Clear Window Bird Feeder with 5 Extra Strong Suction Cups, DY-SKTY Sturdy and Durable Acrylic Bird Feeders for Viewing Wild Bird Outside, as a Bird Watching Gift, Outdoor Bird Feeder, and Garden Decor
- Brand: DY-SKTY
- Target Species: Cardinal, Woodpecker, Finch, Robin
- Recommended Uses For Product: Water, Seed
- Material: Glass, Acrylic
- Special Feature: Durable
5. Suet Feeders
If you are looking for feeders to serve high-quality and best-energy foods, go for Suet feeders. These kinds of feeders are perfect for birds like woodpeckers, starlings, and jays. You can install suet bird feeders in colder months to feed the suet. The two main designs for these dispensers are birdcage caged feeders and wood pieces. With their exclusive design of square wire cage, they allow birds to peck at solid food chunk. Made from sturdy and heavy-duty metal and double locking system, these eco-friendly bird feeders are not only durable but keep the suet at its place as well.
More Birds Double Suet Cage Bird Feeder with Metal Roof, Fruit and Suet Feeder, 2 Suet Cake Capacity
- Brand: More Birds
- Target Species: Woodpecker
- Recommended Uses For Product: Suet
- Material: Metal
- Special Feature: Durable
6. Hummingbird Feeders
These feeders are also called Hummingbird Nectar Feeders because they are designed for birds that need sweet, juicy fluid. These small, red, stylish feeders are best to dispense sugar water or juice. With high-view flower shaped feeding ports in a circular style, multiple birds can be fed simultaneously. This is one of the best pole-mounted bird feeders that is not only simple but attractive. Simply lifting off the red plastic lid can help with refill and clean this feeder. And the hummingbird is widely known for taking nectar from different flowers. They can attract different types of birds, are easy to set up, and can be installed even in small backyards.
FEED GARDEN 2 Pack 16 OZ Hummingbird Feeders for Outdoor 5 Feeder Ports Ant Bee Proof Leak-Proof Cleaning Brushes Nectar Easy Clean Fill Bird Feeder for Garden Red Décor Gifts for Mom
- Brand: FEED GARDEN
- Target Species: Hummingbird
- Recommended Uses For Product: Nectar
- Material: Plastic
- Special Feature: Bee Resistant, Removable Lid, Easy-Refill Top, 360 Degree Perch, Built-In Ant Moat
See also Foods That Are Toxic to Birds | Guide to 10 Common Options
7. Squirrel-proof Bird Feeders
For pet parents facing problems due to squirrels eating bird food, this is a worthwhile choice. Because now you can have a feeder that squirrels cannot approach. This squirrel-resistant bird feeders are made of metal mesh to hung on trees or other objects in backyard or garden. This feeder has a shroud with opening that automatically forces down the food via ports when a bird climbs to the feeder. Flying birds cannot be harmed in any way with this feeder. Also, their automatic weight adjustment and gravity protection feature prevents squirrel’s access. Due to their durable construction, it can endure all kinds of weather elements, ensure long-term use and save you money.
Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder, Metal Mesh Bird Feeders for Outdoors Hanging, Gravity Protection Squirrel Proof Wild Bird Feeders with Finch Cardinal Chickadee,3LB Large Capacity, Green
- Brand: Niser
- Target Species: Birds
- Recommended Uses For Product: Outdoor Hanging, Bird Feeding, Yard Decor, Christmas gift for bird lovers
- Material: Metal
- Special Feature: Squirrel Proof, Weatherproof, Easy-Refill Top, Rust Resistant, Waste Proof
8. Fruit Feeders
This kind of dispenser is designed to hold and store fruits instead of seeds or any kind of grain. Grape jelly, apples, or oranges are some options that can be served for birds through this buffet metal bird fruit feeder. Made from high-quality and UV-stabilized glass and durable plastic, it can withstand outdoor harsh conditions. Spring and fall seasons are the best to hang these bird feeders. They can even attract butterflies. It is overall the best and long-lasting choice for bird lovers to have in their backyard or garden.
Nature’s Way BBFM1 Bluebird Buffet Metal Bird Feeder with Protective Baffle, Outdoor Wild Bird Feeder and Décor, One Glass Dish with 3/4 Cup capacity, Blue
- Brand: Nature’s Way
- Target Species: Bluebird
- Recommended Uses For Product: Seed, Fruit, Suet Balls, Mealworm
- Material: Glass, Plastic
- Special Feature: Weather Resistant
9. Nyjer Feeders
Nyjer, also known as Niger or thistle, is a specialized type of bird feeder, designed specifically to dispense nyjer seeds. Compared to standard bird feeders, these weatherproof bird feeders have smaller ports to prevent seeds from spilling and creating a mess. Made from solid plastic or metal mesh, these feeders can hold hundreds of goldfinches at a time. They have a tube-like structure and are a few feet long, and a metal top and base with multiple perches. These are good for feeding birds with small beaks. These Nyjer feeders are the choice of many pet owners, they add liveliness to the garden.
iBorn Nyjer/Thistle Bird Feeder Metal Bird Feeders for Outdoors, Finch Feeders for Outside, Tube Feeder Hanging Hook 14 Inch Yellow
- Brand: iBorn
- Target Species: Finch, Chickadee
- Material: Metal
- Special Feature: Easy-Refill Top
- Mounting Type: Hanging Mount
10. Peanut Feeder
Peanuts are the best addition to any bird station, that can be easily hung and filled in no time. For this purpose, you can go for peanut bird feeder. Designed to serve in-shell or shell peanuts to your birds, these peanut feeders are a great choice. Made from high quality steel which is not only sturdy but tarnish resistant due to powder coating, making it the durable choice. This serving tool has enough space to pull out the shells. They usually have a tube-like shape, but you can find them with round and wreath shapes with large holes through which birds can easily get the peanuts out.
Gtongoko 2 Pack Peanut Wreath Bird Feeder, Rust & Waterproof, Solid Steel Durable Whole Peanut Wild Bird Feeder with Hanging Hook
- Brand: Gtongoko
- Target Species: Blue Jay, Squirrel
- Recommended Uses For Product: Nut
- Material: Alloy Steel, Metal
- Special Feature: Waterproof
11. Seed Feeders
Are you looking for a best feeder for birds that reduce waste and safeguards food for a long time? This feeder is the ultimate solution that is suitable for outdoor use. It offers high capacity, allowing easily refills and feeding. The doomed design roof protects food against rain and other external environmental and weather conditions. It is made to attract greenfinches, sparrows, and blue tits, these feeders are uniquely designed to dispense seeds. These metal bird seed feeders make it easier to feed food to every bird, no matter if it’s small or large. You can find these feeders in a variety of plastic or metal settings to serve sunflowers to mix seeds.
Metal Bird Feeder for Outdoors Hanging,3.0LB Seed Feeder,Easy to Fill & Clean,360° Feeding,Weatherproof Roof for Gardens
- Brand: Youvip
- Target Species: Cardinal
- Recommended Uses For Product: Seed
- Material: Metal
- Special Feature: Weather Resistant, Easy-Refill Top, 360 Degree Perch, Adjustable, Rust Resistant
12. Solar Powered Bird Feeders
With unique and sturdy design, this solar-powered bird feeder makes the best addition to any backyard or garden. With metal coating, it is the worthwhile choice to last long because it protects food against windy, rainy, and snowy weather. This feeder has two compartments for the placement of different types of seeds and a bottom tray with holes to prevent water accumulation. It comes with a rechargeable battery which lights up automatically in night, offering convenience to birds in finding food. Some of the custom bird feeders comes with camera for monitoring. You can gift these best bird feeders for cardinals and finches to your bird loving friends.
MrCrafts Solar Bird Feeder – Hanging Metal Bird House Feeder with Solar Lights, Outdoor Solar Lantern, Garden Decor for Outside, Unique Gifts for Mom, Grandma, Christmas
- Brand: Mrcrafts
- Target Species: Cardinals, Finches, Chickadees
- Recommended Uses For Product: Seed
- Material: Metal
- Special Feature: Removable Roof, Illuminated, Solar, Heavy Duty, Easy-Refill Top
Tips to Choose the Best Feeder That Attracts Birds
Though it depends on the bird species, feeder type, durability, cleaning ease, placement, and bird seed compatibility to have the perfect bird feeding station, here are some quick tips for beginners to choose the right feeders for their pet birds or to attract wild birds.
Sturdiness
Outdoor bird feeders must be properly checked when buying to see if they can withstand variant or harsh weather conditions.
Seed Dryness
Check the dispenser you choose for birds to ensure it has drainage to keep the seeds from dampening.
Perch Design
Another thing is checking if the dispenser has a bird-friendly design that allows them to perch away with food.
Variety
There can be types of bird feeders for different birds​. So, evaluate the type and number of dispensers.
Food Type
Get to know the types of feeders that are good for the type of food you want to serve to your birds.
Location
Already determine where you’ll install or place the feeder to attract most of the birds to your backyard.
Backyard Guide How to feed your backyard birds a comprehensive guide
Nest
Make sure your best feeder offers the proper food storage while allowing the birds to stay there for a while.
Ease of Use
Make sure the big bird feeders you select are easy to use, like pouring food and emptying it for cleaning.
Ease of Cleaning
The market has different types of feeders​. Choose a design that is easy to maintain, empty, and clean.
Coming To End
Feeding birds is a delightful way to be close to nature while supporting birds to survive during cold and migrating seasons. It is important to understand the type of bird dispenser, as you can find custom wooden, glass, metal, or homemade bird feeder options. When you know the type and purpose of a feeder, you can choose the best one. The right feeder will not only be an eco-friendly option, but it will also attract more and more birds. By knowing different types of USA made bird feeders in this guide, you’ll be aware of the safe and health-friendly options for your bird.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
As a Beginner, Which Type of Bird Feeders are Best?
If you are indecisive in the selection of winter bird feeders, go for hopper feeders, as they are the best choice for beginners. These feeders are not only versatile but easily accessible, convenient to use, and draw different bird breeds and types.
Which Bird Feeder Attracts the Best Way Songbirds?
Different songbirds, like finches and sparrows, can be attracted by tube feeders loaded with mixed or sunflower seeds. Platform feeders are also effective since they make it simple for birds to get food.
Can the Same Feeders Go For All Bird Species?
Certain feeders serve certain birds, whereas others draw a variety of species. A range of birds can be accommodated by using a variety of feeders.
How Many Times Should I Clean My Bird Feeder?
At least once a week, clean the feeders. Cleaning nectar feeders may be necessary every few days, particularly during warm weather.
Which Food Is Ideal To Attract Different Bird Types?
Numerous bird species like black-oil sunflower seeds. Including fruits, mealworms, and suet will help to diversify your guests.
Is it Possible to Use Multiple Bird Feeders in My Backyard?
Of course! Since various species have varied preferences for eating, using a variety of bird feeders helps draw in a greater range of birds. Combine suet, platform, and tube feeders to provide a varied feeding environment.
What Is the Best Bird Feeder to Keep Squirrels Away?
The best bird feeders squirrel proof to try are double suet, Brome Squirrel Buster series, and Droll Yankees. They deter squirrels and keep them at a safe distance.
What Bird Feeder Attracts the Most Birds?
The bird feeders that attract the most birds are hopper and house-style. A lot of birds like jays, finches, cardinals, sparrows, and buntings are attracted to this kind of feeder.
Are Plastic or Metal Bird Feeders Better?
Both metal or plastic bird feeders come with their own pros and cons. When it comes to durability, damage-resistance, easy-cleaning, pick metal among metal vs plastic bird feeders. And, for lightweight, budget-friendly, and color variations, choose plastic.
How Do I Prevent Mold in Hummingbird Feeders?
Regular cleaning is advised to prevent the mold buildup in hummingbird feeder. Dissemble the feeder to wash all parts with hot and soapy water and rinse properly. Replace the sugar water more frequently during summer.
Are Smart Bird Feeder with Cameras Worth It?
For birdwatching enthusiasts, best bird feeders with cameras with smart features are totally worth it. With high quality photo and video capabilities, they offer unique experience to watch, interact, and care for your backyard birds.
Can I Leave My Bird Feeder Out in the Rain?
Well, it depends on the feeder and bird food type. Wet birdseeds can become moldy and attract pests, harming birds. Hence, invest in feeders that minimize water exposure and make sure to clean regularly.
Which Bird Feeders are Best for Finches and Cardinals?
For finches, tube feeder is the best while for cardinals, the best ones are platform, hopper, and tube with large perches. Cardinals like to land and eat comfortably, that’s why these feeders are the best choice.
What Bird Feeder Is Best for Small Spaces Like Balconies?
For best bird feeder for balconies is traditional that takes up less space and accommodates perfectly with any setting. They can be hung with a tree, a mounting pole, or at a custom place.
What’s the Best Feeder for Winter Use?
The best bird feeders for winter bird feeding are suet and hopper that provides ample space for seeds. They protect seeds during the colder months. Also, try having feeders at the sheltered locations.
How Do I Clean a Bird Feeder Safely?
For safe bird feeder cleaning, start by emptying and removing any old food. Next, disassemble feeder to was all parts with warm and soapy water. Pay attention to hidden areas and thoroughly rinse the feeder with clean water. Let it air dry before seeds refill.
