Best Sellers in Wild Bird Feeding | Top Bird Feeders & Seed
If you’re looking to attract more beautiful birds to your backyard, you need the right bird feeders and seeds. Bird feeding is not only a rewarding hobby but also an opportunity to support local wildlife by providing them with essential nutrients. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned birdwatcher, choosing the right bird feeder and seeds can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best-selling bird feeders and seeds that are sure to attract a wide variety of birds to your outdoor space.
Top Bird Feeders: Best-Sellers for Every Bird Lover
| Bird Feeder Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Tube Feeders | Long, cylindrical feeders designed to hold seed like sunflower seeds or nyjer (thistle). Often come with multiple ports for birds to feed simultaneously. | Finches, chickadees, and small songbirds |
| 2. Platform Feeders | Large, flat trays that provide a surface for feeding, allowing various bird species to eat comfortably. | Ground-feeding birds like sparrows, doves, and juncos |
| 3. Hopper Feeders | These feeders hold a large supply of seed and allow for easy refilling. They often feature a roof to protect seeds from the weather. | Larger birds like cardinals, jays, and woodpeckers |
| 4. Suet Feeders | Designed to hold suet cakes, which provide high-energy food to birds during colder months. | Woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other insect-eating birds |
| 5. Squirrel-Proof Feeders | Feeders designed with mechanisms to prevent squirrels from accessing the seed. Some feeders have weight-sensitive perches, while others have cages that only allow smaller birds to access the food. | Birdwatchers in areas with high squirrel activity |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Bird Feeders & Seeds
1. Types of Birds You Want to Attract
Before choosing your feeder and seed, consider the types of birds you want to attract. If you’re aiming for small, colorful finches, you might want to opt for a tube feeder with nyjer seed. For larger birds like cardinals, a hopper feeder with black oil sunflower seeds may be more suitable. Knowing what birds are common in your area and their feeding preferences will guide your decisions.
2. Weather Conditions
Some bird feeders are designed to withstand various weather conditions. If you live in an area with heavy rain or snow, it’s important to choose a feeder with a roof or cover that protects the seeds from getting wet. Additionally, certain seeds like suet are better suited for cold weather, providing high-energy nutrition when birds need it most.
3. Squirrel Problems
Squirrels can be a nuisance to bird feeders, often raiding the food supply. If you’re dealing with persistent squirrels, consider investing in a squirrel-proof feeder. These feeders are designed with mechanisms that prevent squirrels from accessing the seeds, ensuring that birds get their fair share.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Bird feeders should be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of mold and bacteria, which can be harmful to birds. Look for feeders that are easy to disassemble and clean, and choose seed blends that minimize waste and mess, like sunflower seeds that are husk-free.
Popular Bird Feeding Tips
- Offer Fresh Water: In addition to bird seed, offering fresh water in a birdbath can attract even more birds to your yard. Water is an essential resource, especially during hot or dry weather.
- Placement: The placement of your bird feeders is key. Try to place feeders near shrubs or trees that provide shelter for birds and keep predators at bay. Additionally, make sure they are visible from your home to enjoy the birdwatching experience.
- Feed Regularly: Keeping a consistent supply of food will encourage birds to return to your feeders. Birds are creatures of habit, and if they find a reliable food source, they will make your yard their regular stopping point.
Top Bird Seed: Best Sellers to Attract a Variety of Birds
| Seed Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Black Oil Sunflower Seeds | A favorite among many bird species, these seeds are rich in fat and protein, making them ideal for attracting a wide range of birds. | Cardinals, chickadees, titmice, and sparrows |
| 2. Nyjer (Thistle) Seed | Tiny seeds that are a favorite of finches, especially goldfinches. Nyjer is rich in oil and provides energy to small songbirds. | Goldfinches, pine siskins, and redpolls |
| 3. Suet Cakes | High-energy fat-based food that is typically mixed with seeds or insects to provide birds with additional nutrients during the colder months. | Woodpeckers, nuthatches, and wrens |
| 4. Millet Seed | A small, round seed often used to attract ground-feeding birds. It’s a great choice for adding variety to your backyard bird buffet. | Sparrows, juncos, and doves |
Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders: Keeping Your Seed Safe from Pesky Pests
If you’ve been feeding birds in your backyard for a while, you’ve probably encountered a frustrating problem: squirrels. These clever creatures have an uncanny ability to sneak past bird feeder mechanisms, raid seed supplies, and leave your feeders empty. Thankfully, squirrel-proof bird feeders are here to help. These feeders are designed to thwart squirrels while allowing birds to feed comfortably, ensuring you get more feathered friends without the furry intruders.
Here’s a closer look at the best squirrel-proof bird feeders on the market and the features that make them so effective at keeping squirrels at bay.
Brome Squirrel Buster Plus Bird Feeder
The Brome Squirrel Buster Plus is often regarded as one of the best squirrel-proof bird feeders. Its unique design uses a weight-sensitive mechanism that makes it virtually impossible for squirrels to get to the seeds.
- Key Features:
- Weight-Activated Mechanism: When a squirrel climbs onto the feeder, their weight triggers a locking mechanism that closes the seed ports, preventing them from accessing the food.
- Weather-Proof: The feeder is designed to handle all types of weather, keeping your seed dry even during rainstorms.
- Easy to Clean: The feeder comes apart easily for cleaning, ensuring that mold and bacteria don’t build up.
- Why It’s Great: The Squirrel Buster Plus has a large capacity for seed, and the adjustable weight system ensures it only allows smaller birds to feed. It’s durable, effective, and provides an uninterrupted feeding experience for your backyard birds.
Droll Yankees Yankee Flipper Squirrel-Proof Feeder
The Yankee Flipper is another top contender in the squirrel-proof category, featuring a motorized system that helps keep squirrels at bay.
- Key Features:
- Motorized Spinning Mechanism: When a squirrel climbs onto the feeder, it triggers a motor that spins the feeder pole, flinging the squirrel off before they can access the seed.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Made from metal, the feeder is resistant to damage from both squirrels and the elements.
- Seed Capacity: This feeder holds a good amount of seed, reducing the frequency of refills.
- Why It’s Great: The Yankee Flipper combines entertainment with functionality. It’s not only effective at deterring squirrels but also provides an amusing spectacle for bird watchers as squirrels attempt (and fail) to grab the seed. It’s a fun, efficient, and reliable option for bird lovers.
Squirrel-X Squirrel-Proof Tube Feeder
The Squirrel-X Tube Feeder is a popular choice for those who prefer a simple and effective design that doesn’t require mechanical parts or batteries.
- Key Features:
- Adjustable Squirrel-Proof Mechanism: The feeder features a patented design that uses a cage around the seed ports. The cage is large enough for small birds but small enough to prevent squirrels from reaching the seeds.
- Durable Construction: Made with strong materials, this feeder is built to last and withstand squirrel attempts to chew through or damage it.
- Versatile Seed Options: The tube feeder works with various types of seed, including sunflower seeds and mixed seed blends.
- Why It’s Great: The Squirrel-X Tube Feeder is highly effective without complicated mechanisms. It’s perfect for people who want a straightforward solution to keeping squirrels at bay. Plus, its design ensures smaller birds can easily feed, while squirrels remain frustrated.
Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone III Tube Feeder
Perky-Pet’s Squirrel-Be-Gone III is another tube-style feeder designed specifically to prevent squirrels from accessing the seed.
- Key Features:
- Patented Adjustable Weight-Sensitive Technology: Like the Squirrel Buster Plus, this feeder features a weight-sensitive system that closes the seed ports when a heavier animal, like a squirrel, tries to feed.
- Durable Construction: Made from metal and plastic, this feeder is designed to resist squirrel damage and has a long lifespan.
- Multiple Seed Compartments: With multiple feeding ports, the feeder can accommodate several birds at once, offering a diverse array of birds a chance to eat.
- Why It’s Great: The Squirrel-Be-Gone III offers reliable squirrel protection and a sturdy design that can withstand years of outdoor use. It’s also easy to hang and refill, making it a convenient option for bird enthusiasts.
Audubon Going Green Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly squirrel-proof feeder, the Audubon Going Green model is a great choice. It’s made from recycled plastic and offers excellent protection against squirrels.
- Key Features:
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Made from 90% recycled plastic, the Going Green feeder is not only squirrel-proof but also sustainable.
- Squirrel-Proof Design: This feeder features a cage around the seed ports that keeps squirrels away while allowing birds to feed.
- Easy to Hang: The feeder is lightweight and comes with a sturdy hanging hook, making it simple to mount in your yard.
- Why It’s Great: The Going Green feeder offers a sustainable way to enjoy birdwatching while keeping squirrels out of your bird food. Its eco-friendly materials make it a great option for environmentally conscious bird watchers.
Squirrel-Proof Suet Feeder
Suet feeders are ideal for attracting woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other insect-eating birds. A squirrel-proof suet feeder is essential if you want to keep your suet cakes safe from squirrels.
- Key Features:
- Cage Design: Most squirrel-proof suet feeders feature a metal cage that only allows smaller birds to fit through the openings. Larger animals, like squirrels, are unable to access the suet inside.
- Durable Construction: Made from metal or tough plastic, these suet feeders are built to withstand both squirrel attempts and weather.
- Multiple Compartments: Many suet feeders come with multiple compartments for holding more than one suet cake at once.
- Why It’s Great: Squirrel-proof suet feeders are perfect for attracting woodpeckers, who love suet, while ensuring that squirrels and other pests can’t get to it. The cage design is simple but effective, providing easy access to smaller birds and preventing larger animals from raiding the suet.
How Squirrel-Proof Feeders Work
Squirrel-proof bird feeders typically use one or more of the following methods to keep squirrels at bay:
- Weight-Sensitive Mechanisms: These feeders close access to the seed when a heavy animal, like a squirrel, lands on the feeder. This is one of the most effective ways to prevent squirrels from raiding your bird food.
- Cage or Baffle Designs: Many squirrel-proof feeders feature a metal cage or baffle around the seed ports. These designs only allow smaller birds to access the seed while preventing larger animals like squirrels from reaching it.
- Motorized Devices: Some feeders, like the Yankee Flipper, use motorized spinning mechanisms that eject squirrels from the feeder when they attempt to feed.
- Specialized Seed Compartments: Some squirrel-proof feeders have seed compartments that only release food when birds feed from them. These designs often use spring-loaded mechanisms that close the seed ports when heavier animals, like squirrels, try to feed.
Does Aluminum Foil Keep Squirrels Away from Bird Feeders?
Many bird watchers and garden enthusiasts are constantly searching for ways to keep squirrels from raiding bird feeders. One popular DIY trick that’s often suggested is wrapping aluminum foil around feeders or surrounding tree trunks with foil to deter these pesky rodents. But does this method actually work, or is it just a temporary fix? Let’s dive into the question: Does aluminum foil keep squirrels away from bird feeders?
How Aluminum Foil Works (Or Doesn’t Work) on Squirrels
Aluminum foil might seem like a simple, cost-effective solution to keep squirrels away from bird feeders, but its effectiveness can be hit-or-miss, depending on the specific situation. Here’s how it works (and why it may not always be the best solution):
1. Noise and Glare
One reason aluminum foil might be suggested for deterring squirrels is its ability to reflect light and make noise when it moves. The shiny surface of aluminum foil can be disorienting to squirrels, especially in bright sunlight or windy conditions. The sound of foil rustling in the wind can also be startling to these animals, potentially causing them to avoid the area.
- Pro: The shiny and reflective surface might make squirrels feel uncomfortable or unsafe. The rustling noise can act as a deterrent, especially if placed in areas where the squirrels may be startled.
- Con: Squirrels are highly adaptable and may become accustomed to the noise or visual stimuli over time, rendering the foil ineffective.
2. Physical Barrier
Some people wrap aluminum foil around poles or tree trunks near bird feeders in an attempt to create a slick surface that squirrels can’t climb. The idea is that the smooth texture of the foil will make it difficult for squirrels to grip and climb, preventing them from reaching the bird feeder.
- Pro: In theory, the smooth surface of aluminum foil may hinder squirrels’ ability to climb poles or tree trunks.
- Con: Squirrels are incredibly resourceful climbers and may find ways around the foil barrier. They may leap from nearby branches, jump from other surfaces, or even chew through the foil if they are persistent enough. Over time, the foil may also lose its effectiveness due to wear and tear from the elements.
3. Temporary Fix
Aluminum foil can sometimes act as a short-term deterrent when placed around bird feeders or tree trunks. The novelty of the shiny, reflective material and its noise can initially scare off squirrels, but over time, they often adjust to the presence of the foil.
- Pro: It can be a quick and inexpensive solution to experiment with in the short term, especially if you need to prevent squirrels from accessing feeders temporarily.
- Con: Squirrels are quick learners, and once they get used to the foil, they may begin to ignore it altogether. It’s also not a long-term solution for squirrels who are particularly determined.
Why Squirrels Might Ignore Aluminum Foil
Squirrels are notoriously persistent and adaptive animals. They have an extraordinary ability to solve problems and are capable of outsmarting many deterrents. Some of the reasons why aluminum foil might not always keep squirrels away include:
- Squirrels Can Jump: Squirrels are excellent jumpers and can leap from nearby trees, fences, or other structures to reach a bird feeder, even if it’s on a pole covered in foil.
- Squirrels Can Chew: Squirrels are known for their strong teeth, which allow them to chew through materials like plastic, wood, and yes, even aluminum foil. Over time, they may chew through or around the foil, especially if it’s not properly secured.
- Adaptation: Squirrels are highly intelligent and are known for their ability to adapt quickly to new challenges. After initially being startled by the noise or visual effect of the foil, they may adjust their behavior and continue their attempts to access the bird feeder.
Do Squirrel-Proof Feeders Actually Work?
Yes, squirrel-proof feeders can be very effective at keeping squirrels away from bird food. They typically use mechanisms such as weight-sensitive perches, cages, or spinning parts that prevent squirrels from reaching the seed. While no feeder is 100% squirrel-proof, many models significantly reduce squirrel interference, allowing birds to feed without disruption.
2. How Do Weight-Sensitive Squirrel-Proof Feeders Work?
Weight-sensitive squirrel-proof feeders have a built-in mechanism that closes access to the seed ports when a squirrel (or any heavy animal) lands on the feeder. The weight of the squirrel triggers a mechanism that either shuts the feeding ports or locks them, preventing the squirrel from getting to the seeds. The feeder’s design ensures that only lighter birds, like finches or chickadees, can feed.
3. Can Aluminum Foil Keep Squirrels Away from Bird Feeders?
Aluminum foil may offer a temporary deterrent, but it’s not the most effective long-term solution. The noise and reflective surface might initially scare squirrels, but they are adaptable and will likely get used to it over time. Squirrels can also chew through the foil or bypass it by jumping from nearby branches. For a more reliable solution, invest in a squirrel-proof feeder or baffles.
4. How Can I Keep Squirrels from Climbing My Bird Feeder?
There are several methods to prevent squirrels from climbing your bird feeder:
- Install a baffle: A baffle is a cone or dome-shaped device placed on the pole beneath the feeder to prevent squirrels from climbing up.
- Use a smooth, metal pole: Squirrels can’t grip smooth surfaces, so using a pole that’s difficult to climb can help.
- Place the feeder high up: Hang feeders at least 5-6 feet off the ground to make it harder for squirrels to reach.
What Are Some Natural Ways to Deter Squirrels from My Bird Feeder?
There are several natural deterrents you can use to discourage squirrels:
- Spicy seed additives: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to bird seed, as squirrels dislike the heat. This can keep them away while still being safe for birds.
- Peppermint oil: Squirrels find peppermint oil repellent. You can use peppermint-scented sprays around the feeder or rub the poles with peppermint oil.
- Garlic: Squirrels also dislike the smell of garlic. Garlic sprays or garlic powder sprinkled around the feeder can deter them.
Better Alternatives to Aluminum Foil for Deterring Squirrels
While aluminum foil might provide a temporary deterrent for squirrels, it is not the most reliable or permanent solution. Here are some more effective methods for keeping squirrels away from bird feeders:
1. Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders
Investing in a squirrel-proof bird feeder is one of the most reliable ways to keep squirrels at bay. These feeders use weight-sensitive mechanisms, cages, or spinning features that prevent squirrels from accessing the seeds while allowing smaller birds to feed.
2. Squirrel Baffles
A squirrel baffle is a disk or cone-shaped device that is placed on poles or hanging wires to prevent squirrels from climbing up to the feeder. Baffles are typically made of metal or plastic and are designed to slide down the pole when a squirrel attempts to climb it, sending them sliding off before they can reach the food.
3. Spicy Seed Additives
Squirrels dislike spicy foods, so adding cayenne pepper or spicy chili powder to your birdseed can help deter them. The heat from the spices irritates squirrels’ noses and mouths, making them less likely to return to the feeder. Just make sure to mix the spice thoroughly into the seed to avoid it being too concentrated in one area.
Squirrel-Repellent Sprays
There are commercial squirrel-repellent sprays available that use natural ingredients (like garlic or peppermint oil) to deter squirrels. These sprays are safe for birds but make the area around the feeder unappealing to squirrels. You can spray these on poles, feeders, or nearby trees.
Relocating Feeders
If squirrels are particularly persistent, try placing your feeders in locations that are harder for squirrels to reach. Hang them from high branches or use poles that are too slick for squirrels to climb. A squirrel-proof pole with a baffle at the bottom can also make a big difference in preventing access.
Does Aluminum Foil Keep Squirrels Away?
While aluminum foil may provide a short-term deterrent for squirrels due to its reflective surface and noise, it is generally not an effective or long-lasting solution. Squirrels are highly adaptable creatures that can learn to overcome simple obstacles like foil. For a more reliable approach, consider investing in squirrel-proof bird feeders, using baffles, or experimenting with spicy seed additives or repellents.
