When researching the best bird feeders, we evaluated products based on their design, material, weight, capacity, and overall performance.  Our top pick, Brome Squirrel Solution Wild Bird Feeder, offers an innovative, squirrel-proof design that attracts lots of small birds. Here are the best bird feeders for your feathered friends. In addition to being squirrel-proof, the Brome Wild Bird Feeder makes an attractive addition to any backyard, earning our top spot on this list. The tube-style feeder is rectangular in shape and made of UV-resistant plastic for optimal durability. It’s encased in a green metal cage that features decorative leaves on all sides. However, this bird feeder is not just for show! When a squirrel climbs onto it, the weight activated-shroud blocks access to the feeding ports. As our tester noted, “The very active, early spring squirrels were sometimes able to climb out onto the feeder but, as designed, their body weight pulled the metal frame down, blocking the holes and preventing feeding.”
This bird feeder holds up to 3.4 pounds of seed and can be hung on a tree branch or stand, although hanging hardware is not included. It can be used with a variety of mixed seeds, but the manufacturer recommends using safflower or black oil sunflower seeds to attract more birds. Our tester appreciated how easy the bird feeder was to fill and noted, “The included plastic funnel made loading seed into the tube easy; simply slide the funnel into the top. However, we did experience some spillage, so make sure you do your filling somewhere you don’t mind stray seed.” All of the pieces disassemble easily for thorough cleaning and maintenance. To top it all off, the parts are chew-proof to prevent squirrels from doing damage and forcing their way inside.  There are a few drawbacks to this otherwise stellar performer. Due to its small perches and feeding ports, it likely won’t bring in larger birds. However, our tester reports that it brings in plenty of smaller finches and chickadee-type birds. And while the feeder itself is squirrel-proof, seeds can sometimes spill out the holes and bottom, attracting squirrels to the ground below it. Price at time of publish: $69 The Twinkle Star Feeder is made from plastic and its clear panels allow you to monitor seed levels. It also has a twist-lock roof, which is easy to refill, and keeps birdseed fresh and dry. One major downside to this feeder is that it won’t deter squirrels. In fact, we read some reports of squirrels hanging on it and causing the seeds to spill out. This unit comes fully assembled and ready to hang, which is a nice plus. Price at time of publish: $15 There are four feeding ports on this tube feeder, and it can hold up to five pounds of birdseed. The larger capacity means less frequent filling, however, it will need to be charged regularly. To prevent it from fading in the sun, the tube is made of UV-stabilized polycarbonate. It has a metal perching ring at its base, which allows birds to comfortably feed, along with a metal cap to protect the birdseed from rain.  This unit includes a power stick and AC adapter for charging. Although it’s much pricier than other bird feeders in this roundup, its advanced design sets it apart from the competition. The feeder body is covered by a lifetime warranty, and the motor and battery charger are backed by a one-year warranty. Price at time of publish: $128 Suet feeders are ideal for chickadees, nuthatches, jays, bluebirds, woodpeckers, and more. Birds can easily access the food through the mesh openings. To deter squirrels, the manufacturer suggests using a hot pepper suet cake. The only potential downside is the price, which is significantly higher than other suet cages. However, we think the long-lasting construction is worth the investment. Price at time of publish: $25 The perforated mesh tray at the center of the platform can be filled with a variety of birdseed, including sunflowers, peanuts, and specialty mixes. However, our tester found that small seeds, such as millet, can fall right through the cracks. The open design makes this bird feeder incredibly easy to fill, and it provides plenty of space for multiple birds to perch. Plus, the tray can be lifted out for easy cleaning and maintenance. Price at time of publish: $22 This bird feeder holds just over 0.5 pounds of thistle, and drainage holes at the bottom help to keep the seed dry. The twist-lock top makes it easy to fill and clean. Measuring nine inches tall, this unit is quite small compared to other options. It won’t likely bring in larger birds, but it’s a great choice for attracting finches. Another incentive for bird lovers? The manufacturer donates a portion of all proceeds to bird habitat and conservation efforts. Price at time of publish: $17 The tube is constructed from UV-stabilized polycarbonate, which resists discoloration over time. Since the lid, base, perches, and feeding ports are made of metal, squirrels will not be able to chew through them. What’s more, this product is backed by a lifetime warranty against squirrel damage. The feeder can be hung from a stainless steel bail wire or pole-mounted, depending on your preference. Price at time of publish: $40 Made of polycarbonate, this feeder is extremely durable, UV-resistant, and chew-proof against squirrels and chipmunks. All parts detach easily without any tools required, making it easy to clean and fill. The only caveat is the price tag, which is on the steep side. However, the superior construction and squirrel-proof design is worth the splurge in our opinion. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty for added peace of mind. Price at time of publish: $71 To prevent rust and ensure all-season durability, the central support is made of heavy-duty, powder-coated steel. The bowl and the feeder tray are detachable for easy filling and cleaning. Perhaps the only downside to this feeder is that the open design doesn’t deter squirrels or other pesky critters. Price at time of publish: $17 Measuring 9.84 inches tall, this feeder is high enough that slighter larger birds like cardinals, blue jays, and grosbeaks can access it. A patented air circulation system helps keep the seed dry and fresh. According to the manufacturer, this bird feeder is squirrel-proof–as long as you keep it at least 10 feet away from ledges, branches, and gables. However, we found a few reports of determined squirrels still getting in. We also read a few reports of the suction cups losing their grip over time, causing the feeder to fall down. Price at time of publish: $30

Material

Plastic bird feeders should have metal reinforcements and metal perches to keep squirrels away. If you’re choosing a wooden bird feeder, make sure it’s made of weather-resistant cedar or is stained or painted.

Food

The type of food you select will affect what kinds of birds frequent your feeder. Ground-feeding birds like medium cracked corn, but this type of feed tends to rot. Millet is popular for small-beaked, ground-feeding birds. Milo, wheat, and oats are inexpensive but tend to attract rodents. Insect-eating birds, like woodpeckers and wrens, like suet (a mix of beef fat and seed). If you want to attract a wide variety of birds, sunflower seeds are a great choice.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Sage McHugh is a freelance writer who specializes in the home and garden sector. She makes sure to recommend products that are stylish, functional, and well-reviewed by consumers. For this roundup, Sage considered dozens of bird feeders, carefully evaluating each product’s design, material, weight, capacity, and overall performance. For expert insight on bird feeders, Sage interviewed Emma Greig, the director of Project FeederWatch at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. If you have a problem with squirrels on your feeders, place them several feet away from surfaces like tree branches and fences to prevent the critters from jumping onto the feeder.  “If you decide to put up feeders, keep your cats indoors,” Greig advises. “That will help make sure you aren’t attracting birds to a dangerous situation.” Of course, you’ll also want to select a location where you can easily view the birds—after all, that’s likely why you’re putting up a feeder in the first place! To start, you’ll want to place bird feeders at least 10 feet away from surfaces that squirrels can jump off. Other tactics to help deter squirrels from pole-mounted feeders include putting cages around feeders, as this will prevent them from reaching the seed, or installing a dome or baffle above and below the feeder. For maximum effectiveness, these should be at least 18 inches wide. You can also buy specific squirrel-proof bird feeders, which have pest-deterring features built-in.