Last Updated on January 25, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
If you’re a bird enthusiast, you know that getting the right bird feeder is essential to attracting birds.
There are all sorts of bird feeders on the market these days, from tube feeders to platform feeders to suet feeders. So which one should you buy? Well, that depends on what type of birds you want to attract and your personal preferences.
In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of bird feeders and what works best for each type of bird.
Related: 18+ Recycled Wine Bottle Bird Feeder Ideas
Types of bird feeders
There are many different types of bird feeders on the market, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. Here is a breakdown of the most popular types:
1. Caged Feeder
Caged bird feeders are a popular option because they keep the bird food safe from predators.
They also make it easy to clean up after the birds, since all of the food stays inside the cage. However, caged bird feeders can be quite expensive and they often don’t attract as many birds as other types of feeders.
2. Hopper or “House” Feeders
Hopper bird feeders are a good option if you want to attract a wide variety of birds. The design allows the birds to perch on top of the feeder and eat from the tray below. This type of feeder is also very easy to clean and tends to be fairly affordable.
3. Log Feeder
Log bird feeders are a unique option that can be quite attractive in your backyard.
The logs are hollowed out so that the birds can perch and eat, and they come in a variety of different styles. However, log bird feeders can be difficult to clean and they often don’t hold as much food as other types of feeders.
4. Platform Feeder
Platform bird feeders are one of the most popular options, because they are versatile and attract a wide variety of birds.
They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them perfect for any yard. Plus, platform bird feeders are easy to clean and relatively affordable.
5. Mealworm Feeder
Mealworm bird feeders are a great option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract specific types of birds.
The feeders are designed to hold mealworms, which the birds love to eat. However, mealworm bird feeders can be difficult to find and they can be quite expensive.
6. Nectar Feeders (Hummingbird Feeders)
Nectar bird feeders are perfect for attracting hummingbirds. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and some models even have multiple feeding ports.
Nectar bird feeders are easy to clean and relatively affordable, making them a popular choice for bird enthusiasts.
7. Oriole Fruit Feeder
Oriole bird feeders are a great option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract Orioles to their backyard.
The feeders are designed to hold fruit, which the birds love to eat. However, oriole bird feeders can be difficult to find and they can be quite expensive.
8. Peanut Feeders
Peanut bird feeders are a great option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract a wide variety of birds. The feeders are designed to hold peanuts, which the birds love to eat. Plus, peanut bird feeders are easy to clean and relatively affordable.
9. Soda Bottle Feeder
Soda bottle bird feeders are a great option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract a wide variety of birds.
The feeders are made from recycled soda bottles, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Plus, soda bottle bird feeders are easy to clean and very affordable.
10. Suet Feeders
Suet bird feeders are a great option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract woodpeckers, chickadees, and other birds that love suet.
The feeders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and some models even have multiple feeding ports. Suet bird feeders are easy to clean and relatively affordable.
11. Sugar Water Feeder
Sugar water bird feeders are a great option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract hummingbirds.
The feeders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and some models even have multiple feeding ports. Sugar water bird feeders are easy to clean and relatively affordable.
12. Thistle or Nyjer feeders
Thistle bird feeders are a great option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract goldfinches and other birds that love nyjer.
The feeders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and some models even have multiple feeding ports. Thistle bird feeders are easy to clean and relatively affordable.
13. Tray or Platform Feeders
Tray bird feeders are a great option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract a wide variety of birds.
The feeders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and some models even have multiple feeding ports. Tray bird feeders are easy to clean and relatively affordable.
14. Tube Feeders
Tube bird feeders are a great option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract a wide variety of birds. The feeders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and some models even have multiple feeding ports. Tube bird feeders are easy to clean and relatively affordable.
Orientation of bird feeders
When choosing a bird feeder, it is important to consider the orientation of your yard. If you have a lot of trees or other obstacles, you may want to choose a bird feeder that hangs from a branch or pole. However, if you have a wide open yard, a platform bird feeder may be a better option.
1. Freestanding bird feeders
Freestanding bird feeders are a great option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract a wide variety of birds.
The feeders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and some models even have multiple feeding ports. Freestanding bird feeders are easy to clean and relatively affordable.
2. Hanging bird feeders
– Hanging bird feeders are a popular option because they’re easy to use and often attract a variety of birds. There are several different types of hanging bird feeders, so you can find one that will work best for your yard.
– One type of hanging bird feeder is the tubefeeder. This feeder hangs from a hook and has a tube that extends down to the bird feed. The birds can perch on the top of the feeder or on the sides of the tube to eat.
– Another type of hanging bird feeder is the platformfeeder. This feeder hangs from a hook and has a flat platform for the birds to stand on. The platform can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, or wood.
– A third type of hanging bird feeder is the hopperfeeder. This feeder hangs from a hook and has a large container that holds the bird feed. The birds can perch on top of the container or on the sides to eat.
– Finally, there is the bird bath/feeder combo. This feeder hangs from a hook and has a bird bath on top and a container for bird feed below. The birds can drink from the bird bath and also eat from the container.
3. Mounted bird feeders
– Mounted bird feeders are a popular option because they’re easy to use and often attract a variety of birds. There are several different types of mounted bird feeders, so you can find one that will work best for your yard.
– One type of mounted bird feeder is the platformfeeder. This feeder is a simple design that consists of a flat platform with perches for the birds to stand on.
The platform is typically made from plastic or wood, and it has a large enough surface area to accommodate several birds at once.
4. Window bird feeders
– Window bird feeders are a popular choice for bird enthusiasts who want to get up close and personal with their feathered friends. These feeders attach to the window using suction cups, so they’re easy to install and remove.
– Window bird feeders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find one that will fit comfortably in your window. They also come with a variety of feeding ports, so you can choose the type of bird feed that you want to use.
– Window bird feeders are a great way to get some extra bird watching in during the winter months, when most other types of bird feeders are not as effective.
– Another type of bird feeder that is popular among bird enthusiasts is the tube feeder. This feeder is designed to accommodate a variety of bird species, and it comes in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Features
Bird Safety
– When choosing a bird feeder, it is important to consider the safety of both the birds and the people in your yard. Some bird feeders are designed with safety in mind, while others are not.
Decorative vs. Functional
– Decorative bird feeders are beautiful to look at and can add some color to your yard, but they may not be as functional as other types of bird feeders.
– Functional bird feeders are designed to do one or more things, such as hold a lot of food, attract different types of birds, or keep the bird food dry.
Easy-Refill Top vs. Bottom-Fill
– An easy-refill top bird feeder is a great option if you don’t want to have to climb a ladder every time you need to refill the bird food.
– A bottom-fill bird feeder is easier to clean, but you will need to fill it from the bottom.
Fly Through vs. Stationary
– Fly through bird feeders are designed to make it easy for the birds to get in and out, while stationary bird feeders can be more decorative.
– If you want to attract a lot of birds, a fly through bird feeder is the way to go.
– If you’re not too concerned about the number of birds you attract, a stationary bird feeder may be a better option for you.
Gazebo bird feeders
Gazebo bird feeders are a beautiful addition to any backyard. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect one for your space. A gazebo bird feeder is also a great way to add some extra protection from the elements for your birds.
Handmade bird feeders
Handmade bird feeders are a great way to show your love for birds. You can create them in any shape or size, and use any type of material you like. They also make great gifts for bird lovers!
Multiple Tubes bird feeders
Multiple tube bird feeders are a great way to attract a variety of birds to your backyard. They typically have several feeding stations, so you can offer different types of food to different kinds of birds. This is a great way to get a little bit of everything in your bird garden!
Pole Included bird feeders
Pole included bird feeders are a great option for people who don’t have a lot of space in their backyard. They attach to a standard pole, so they can be placed anywhere you have room. This is also a great option for bird watchers who want to see birds up close!
Squirrel Proof
Squirrel proof bird feeders are a must-have for anyone who wants to enjoy bird feeding. These feeders have special features that keep squirrels from getting to the food, so you can rest assured that your birds will be safe!
Window bird feeders
Window bird feeders are a type of bird feeder that is placed on or near a window. They can be hung from the window or set on a sill. Window bird feeders allow you to watch birds up close.
With Top bird feeders
With Top bird feeders are a type of bird feeder that has a roof or lid to keep the food from being blown away. They are often used in areas with high winds. With Top bird feeders also help to protect the food from rain and snow.
Factors to consider when buying a bird feeder
When buying a bird feeder, there are several factors to consider. The first is the type of bird feeder. There are many different types of bird feeders available, so choose one that best fits your needs.
The second factor to consider is the location of the bird feeder. Make sure to place it in an area where you can easily see the birds.
The third factor to consider is the size of the bird feeder. Make sure to choose one that is large enough to hold the type of food you plan to use.
The fourth factor to consider is the weather. Choose a bird feeder that is weather resistant and will not be damaged in bad weather.
The fifth factor to consider is the price. bird feeders vary in price, so choose one that fits your budget.
Finally, make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before installing your bird feeder.
Now that you know the different factors to consider when buying a bird feeder, it’s time to choose one!
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FAQs
How many types of bird feeders are there?
There are many different types of bird feeders on the market, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. Some common types include tube feeders, hopper feeders, platform feeders, and suet cages.
Do bird feeders attract rats?
No, bird feeders do not attract rats. In fact, they can actually help to get rid of them by providing a food source for the birds that prey on them.
Some people worry that bird feeders will attract other pests such as squirrels, but there are many types of feeders that are designed to keep these critters out.
Do bird feeders attract vermin?
No, bird feeders do not attract vermin. In fact, they can help to get rid of them by providing a food source for the birds that prey on them.
Why are birds not coming to my feeder anymore?
There can be many reasons why birds are not coming to your bird feeder. One possibility is that the type of bird feeder you have may not be suitable for the types of birds that live in your area. For example, if you have a hummingbird feeder but no other birds are coming to it, then you may need to get a bird feeder that is designed for attracting other types of birds.
Another possibility is that you may not be providing the right type of food for the birds in your area. For example, if you live in an area where there are a lot of squirrels, then you will need to get a bird feeder that is squirrel-proof, otherwise the squirrels will eat all of the bird food.
Finally, you may not be putting out enough food for the birds. A good rule of thumb is to put out about twice as much bird food as you think you will need, since some birds will only come to the feeder if they know there is plenty of food available.
So, before you give up on bird feeding altogether, take a look at your bird feeder and make sure that it is the right type for your area, and that you are providing the right type of food and enough of it. With a little bit of effort, you should be able to get the birds back to your feeder in no time!
Conclusion
When it comes to bird feeders there are a variety of types and styles to choose from. The most important thing is that you select the type of feeder that will best accommodate the birds in your area.
If you live in an urban area, for example, a platform feeder would be the best option because it will attract more species of birds. If you have a large backyard, on the other hand, a tube feeder or hopper feeder would be more appropriate.
By understanding the different types of birdfeeders available, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you and your backyard birds.