Bird Feeder Types: The Ultimate Guide to Attracting Your Favorite Backyard Birds
Choosing the right bird feeder types is the secret to transforming your backyard into a vibrant avian sanctuary. To attract specific species like Northern Cardinals or energetic Finches, you must match the kinds of bird feeders with their natural feeding habits and preferred types of bird food. This guide offers expert insights into selecting the best equipment for your garden, ensuring you provide a safe and inviting environment for every feathered visitor. Whether you are looking for the best type of bird feeder for blue jays or specialized hummingbird feeder ports, we have you covered.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison: Bird Feeder Types & Target Birds
Before diving into details, use this table to quickly identify which different bird feeders fit your needs. Choosing the best type of bird feeder depends entirely on the “guests” you want to invite.
| Feeder Type | Best For… | Recommended Bird Food |
|---|---|---|
| Tube Feeders | Finches, Chickadees, Titmice | Sunflower seeds, Nyjer seed |
| Hopper Feeders | Cardinals, Blue Jays, Grosbeaks | Safflower, Sunflower, Mixed seed |
| Tray / Platform | Doves, Sparrows, Juncos | Cracked corn, Millet, Fruit |
| Suet Feeders | Woodpeckers, Nuthatches | Suet cakes, Peanut butter blends |
| Nectar Feeders | Hummingbirds, Orioles | Sugar water (Nectar) |
Common Bird Feeder Types Explained
Tube Type Bird Feeders
These are among the most versatile kinds of bird feeders. They feature a hollow cylinder with multiple feeding ports and perches.
- Pro Tip: To prevent squirrels, use a cage type bird feeder such as the Audubon squirrel proof caged tube feeder (model natube3). This allows small songbirds in while keeping larger predators out.
Hopper Type Bird Feeders
Hopper type bird feeders resemble small houses and protect different types of bird feed from the weather. They are the best type of bird feeder for high-volume feeding as they hold a large capacity of seed and satisfy many species at once.
Birdfy Smart Bird Feeder Cam
- AI Species Identification: Instantly recognizes over 6,000 birds and sends 1080P HD videos to your phone.
- Large Capacity Hopper: Holds 1.5L of seed, minimizing refills while keeping seed dry.
- Solar-Powered: Includes an external solar panel for year-round eco-friendly operation.
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Tray or Platform Feeders
As one of the most basic different bird feeders, tray feeders attract the widest variety of birds, including ground feeders. However, ensure they have proper drainage to keep the bird seed fresh.
Specialty Types of Hummingbird Feeders
When selecting the best type of hummingbird feeder, consider the design of the reservoir and ports:
- Saucer Type Hummingbird Feeder: Often considered the superior dish type hummingbird feeder because it is leak-proof and easy to clean.
- Tube Type Hummingbird Feeders: These use a vacuum seal to hold nectar. While popular, they can drip in high temperatures.
Expert Tip: Always check the hummingbird feeder ports for built-in bee guards to ensure only birds can access the sugar water.
Aspects HummZinger HighView
- Ant Moat: Built-in water moat stops crawling insects from reaching the nectar.
- Unbeatable Cleanliness: The simple saucer design pops apart for a 10-second rinse.
- HighView Perch: Elevated perch encourages hummingbirds to rest and stay longer.
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Best Bird Feeder Types for Cardinals
Cardinals are large-footed birds that prefer to face their food directly. To attract them, consider:
- Hopper Feeders: These provide the sturdy ledge Cardinals need to feel secure.
- Large Tray Feeders: These offer the most space for these bright red birds.
- Best Seed Choice: Black oil sunflower seeds are the best type of bird seed to keep Cardinals coming back.
Brome Squirrel Buster Plus
- Cardinal Ring: Features a specialized perching ring that Cardinals love.
- 100% Squirrel Proof: Weight-activated shroud shuts off access to seeds automatically.
- Lifetime Care: Durable materials designed to last a lifetime in your backyard.
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The Best Type of Bird Seed for Your Feeders
Pairing all types of bird feeders with the correct fuel is essential:
- Nyjer Seed Bird Food: Perfect for tube type bird feeders designed for Goldfinches.
- Suet: Essential for types of suet feeders, which attract Woodpeckers and Nuthatches during cold months.
- Sunflower Seeds: The most effective bird seed to attract different birds in almost any feeder.
Droll Yankees Yankee Flipper
- Spinning Motor: Gently spins squirrels off the feeder without hurting them.
- Heavy Duty: UV-stabilized polycarbonate tube and powder-coated metal parts.
- Perfect for Finches: Features 4 feeding ports that only stay open for birds.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the 5-7-9 rule for bird feeders?
The 5-7-9 rule is a proven method to stop squirrels: place feeders 5 feet off the ground, 7 feet away from structures (like trees or fences), and 9 feet below any overhanging branches.
Why should I sprinkle coffee grounds around my bird feeder?
Some people use coffee grounds to deter cats. However, use caution as grounds can be harmful to birds if ingested. Better alternatives include physical deterrents or safe repellents.
Which feeders attract which birds?
Tube feeders are for small clingers (Finches); Hopper feeders attract medium songbirds (Cardinals, Jays); Tray feeders serve ground-feeding birds (Doves, Sparrows).
Is it better to have a glass or plastic hummingbird feeder?
Glass feeders are generally the best type of hummingbird feeder because they don’t warp, are easier to sterilize, and last longer than plastic versions.
Summary
Understanding the various birdfeeder types and matching them with the right bird feeder food types is the key to a successful bird-watching hobby. By using a combination of different types of bird feeders—from caged tube feeders to saucer hummingbird feeders—you can attract the widest variety of species while minimizing pests. Always prioritize cleanliness and high-quality seeds to ensure the health of your local bird population.
