Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.
If you select links we provide, we may receive compensation.
The ports on a bird feeder are holes where the seeds fall into from the main tube.
The Spruce
Birds land on a perch and feed from these ports.
The greater the number of ports, the more birds can feed at once.
Squirrel-proof bird feeders are typically designed to prevent squirrels from accessing these ports.
PHOTO: Amazon
Birds can still comfortably feed from the ports while reducing the amount of feed that falls to the ground.
The larger perches also ensure a variety of birds come to enjoy the feeder.
However, the perches have all remained in place in our weeks of usage.
The weight-activated perch on the Brome Squirrel Buster Plus closes the ports when a squirrel lands on it.PHOTO: The Spruce
All in all, youre getting a secure feeder that will attract various birds while keeping furry wildlife away.
Retailers often suggest at least 18 inches of clearance around and above a hanging feeder.
Squirrels will learn their lesson quickly once theyve been flung off this feeder.
Our only concern with this bird feeder design is the security of its feed cover.
We love its attractive design, which is a step above the other more utilitarian picks on our list.
It’s built with petite perches, so it will attract small birds.
Thanks to the wire mesh surrounding the feed tube, it is alsoideal for perching and clinging birds.
A funnel is included, so we had no issues refilling this feeder.
The baffle attached to the bottom of this feeder prevents squirrels from climbing higher and reaching the bird perches.
Plus, the polycarbonate feeder tube is supposed to be UV resistant and shouldn’t yellow over time.
You also wont have to worry about larger birds like crows because the perches arent large enough for them.
Plus, its easy to monitor how much of the suet is left from a window in your home.
Thankfully, it’s constructed from alloy steel and has a powder-coated finish for extra durability.
Squirrels cant jump into the seed thanks to the weight-activated perches.
Your backyard setupand the birds that frequent itwill determine the best feeder for you.
you could find tube feeders in both hanging and pole-mounted variations.
The cage feeder on our list, theMosloy Caged Double Suet Feeder, is another hanging option.
If you have a yard thats frequented by birds, youll want to look for a larger feeder.
PHOTO: Amazon
Tube feeders often have larger capacities and can be great, low-maintenance feeders.
Youll often see polycarbonate listed in the materials section of tube feeders.
Other durable metals to look out for are steel and any powder-coated finishing, which helps prevent corrosion.
The Perky Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Bird Feeder also has weight-activated perches like our top pick.PHOTO: The Spruce
The feed tube is also made from a thick polycarbonate, so it wont yellow like other thinner varieties.
Squirrel-proof bird feeders work in various ways.
Caged feeders are excellent options because they’re chew-resistant.
Other feeders use a mechanical reaction to deter the squirrel, Witko says.
you’re able to wash most squirrel-proof feeders with warm water and dish soap.
Take your feeder apart first, and empty any leftover seeds.
Use a toothbrush or toothpick to get seeds out of any hard-to-reach areas.
you’re free to then use a brush to scrub the parts with warm water and dish soap.
After rinsing all the parts, leave them to air-dry completely before refilling the feeder.
I truly believe nothing is mammal-proof.
Depending on which kinds of animals live around your area, you may need to take extra precautions.
Some mammals, including squirrels, are sensitive to spices, but birds are not.
You may consider adding cayenne pepper or other spices to your seeds to help keep them away.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Emma Asheis an editor for The Spruce who specializes in writing about home decor and outdoor furniture.
Phelps has previously covered several gardening topics, including thebest gardening toolsand thebest gardening gloves.
PHOTO: Amazon
We really like the small wire mesh on the Brome Squirrel Buster Mini, which keeps squirrel paws out of the seeds.PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: Amazon
You should charge the Yankee Flipper’s battery overnight because it requires 14 hours for a full battery.PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: Amazon
The Brome Squirrel Solution Bird Feed has a more decorative design than other options on our list.PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Amazon
