The Best Outdoor Bird Feeder - 2021
We looked at the top 5 Outdoor Bird Feeders and dug through the reviews from 16 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Outdoor Bird Feeders.
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Our Picks For The Top Outdoor Bird Feeders
Keeps Seeds FreshThis outdoor bird feeder has a seed ventilation system.
Large Feeding AreaThere is lots of room for birds to perch and feed on this bird feeder.
Keeps Critters OutThe unique design of this outdoor bird feeder ensures only birds can access the suet.
Hours of EnjoymentYou can see the birds close up with this window feeder.
Why we recommend these outdoor bird feeders?
Products Considered
Products Analyzed
Expert Reviews Included
User Opinions Analyzed
Our experts reviewed the top 5 Outdoor Bird Feeders and also dug through the reviews from 16 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best of the best Outdoor Bird Feeders.
DWYM is your trusted roduct review source. Our team reviews thousands of product reviews from the trusted top experts and combines them into one easy-to-understand score. Learn more.
The Best Overall
Squirrel Buster Standard Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder
Our Take
Seeds are kept fresh in this feeder with a ventilation system. This attracts more wild birds to your space. The feeder is chew proof so squirrels cannot access the seeds.
What other experts liked
What other experts didn't like
Our Outdoor Bird Feeder Findings
Twinkle Star Hexagon Hanging Wild Bird Feeder
What We Liked: You can easily clean and fill this outdoor bird feeder using the twist lock cover. It has a large capacity of over two pounds. The bird feeder comes fully assembled and ready to use.
Nature’s Hangout Window Bird Feeder & Seed Tray
What We Liked: This bird feeder attaches to your window with suction cups so you can see the birds close up. It’s simple to clean and refill. The suction cups are strong and will not dislodge.
Squirrel-X Squirrel Proof Double Suet Cage Feeder
What We Liked: Only birds can fit through the cage design to access the suet, not squirrels. The bird feeder is durable with weather-resistant construction. It can accommodate two suet cakes at once.
Perky-Pet Red Cardinal Bird Feeder
What We Liked: This outdoor bird feeder has a circular perch which offers a large feeding area. It holds two and a half pounds of bird seed. This feeder attracts finches, grosbeaks, chickadees and more.
Squirrel Buster Standard Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder
What We Liked: Seeds are kept fresh in this feeder with a ventilation system. This attracts more wild birds to your space. The feeder is chew proof so squirrels cannot access the seeds.
Our Outdoor Bird Feeder Buying Guide
Having an outdoor bird feeder is a great way to bring the beautiful songs of birds to your yard. The style of bird feeder you get, as well as the kind of seeds you put in it, will affect the type of wildlife you attract to your space.
There are several different types of outdoor bird feeders available. One of the most common kinds is the tray or platform bird feeder, which attracts a wide variety of birds. With this kind of feeder, you’re likely to see pigeons, starlings and sparrows in your garden. Keep in mind that this kind of feeder does not have a cover or protection against rain or snow. There is also little drainage which can cause fungal growth if the seeds get wet.
Another popular outdoor bird feeder is the house style. It has mesh walls and a cover to protect against wet weather and bird droppings. This kind of feeder attracts jays, cardinals, finches, sparrows and more. If you want a close look at the feathery friends, then opt for a window feeder that attaches to your window using suction cups. It’s a type of platform feeder but offers a little more coverage. They are easy to clean and refill.
DWYM Fun Fact
Squirrels love bird feeders as much as birds, which is a problem for many bird lovers. In order to keep the squirrels away, use a feeder that is house-style with a perch. This doesn’t leave much room for squirrels to stand, unlike a platform feeder. Many squirrel-proof bird feeders have small openings which are only big enough for birds to feed. However, this can discourage some larger birds from visiting your yard as well.
The Outdoor Bird Feeder Tips and Advice
- One of the most important things to consider when buying an outdoor bird feeder is what the weather is like in your area. If you get a lot of rain or snow, then a platform feeder is not an optimal choice because the seeds will get wet. However, in warm and sunny climates, platform feeders work well.
- Be sure to consider how easy the bird feeder is to clean. Note that birds often stand on or very near the seeds when feeding, which can mean that they soil the seeds as well. You will need to clean out the bird feeder on a frequent basis to keep the seeds fresh.
- If you want to have the birds frequent your yard, consider adding a birdbath feature in addition to the bird feeder. Giving them a source of cool, fresh water, along with food, will encourage them to spend some time in your garden.
- Be sure to place the outdoor bird feeder in an easy-to-access location for yourself. If you have to climb a ladder in order to reach it, you may be less likely to clean and refill the feeder on a frequent basis, which may discourage the birds from visiting.
About The Author
Anam Ahmed is a professional copywriter and essayist based in Toronto. She has been writing on technology, travel, parenting and business for over 10 years. As a homeowner and avid gardener, she values finding the best products to make people's lives easier. Anam earned a master's degree from the University of Toronto and a bachelor's degree from Queen's University.