Bird watching is a fun and engaging hobby that many people enjoy. One of the most important aspects of bird watching is providing food for the birds. There are many different types of bird feeders on the market, but not all of them are suitable for larger birds. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various bird feeders to identify the best ones for large birds.
When it comes to bird feeders for large birds, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. First, the feeder needs to be sturdy and durable enough to withstand the weight of larger birds. Second, the feeder should have a large enough opening to accommodate the size of the birds. Finally, the feeder should be easy to clean and maintain.
After researching and testing various bird feeders, we have identified the best ones for large birds. These feeders are made from high-quality materials and designed to withstand the weight of larger birds. They also have large openings to accommodate the birds and are easy to clean and maintain. With one of these bird feeders, you can provide a safe and comfortable feeding environment for your feathered friends.
Top 3 Best Bird Feeders for Large Birds
1. Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Max Bird Feeder
2. Ottsuls Solar Bird Feeder for Outdoors Hanging
3. Kingsyard Bird Feeder House
As bird enthusiasts, we understand the importance of providing the right kind of feeders for our feathered friends. Large birds, such as woodpeckers, jays, and doves, require a feeder that can accommodate their size and weight, while still being durable and easy to clean. After extensive research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best bird feeders for large birds. These feeders are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, making them a great addition to any backyard or garden.
Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Max Bird Feeder
If you’re looking for a bird feeder that keeps squirrels out and offers optimal feeding for birds, the Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Max Bird Feeder is a great option.
Pros
- The weight-activated Seed Shield closes ports when squirrels try to feed & the Sure-Lock cap prevents them from removing the lid.
- The patented Flexports allow for a more optimal feeding position outside the port, so birds feel safer and stay longer.
- The four ladder-style perch pads are designed to fit both small and large birds, so none of your favorite species are left out.
Cons
- The feeder’s weight-activated perch system is calibrated to support the weight of birds but not squirrels, so it may take some time for birds to get used to the new feeding system.
- The feeder’s placement is key to ensuring it is 100% squirrel proof, which may require some trial and error to find the perfect spot.
- The feeder’s 4-pound capacity may not be sufficient for those who want to feed birds for longer periods without refilling.
We’ve been using the Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Max Bird Feeder for a few weeks now and are impressed with its squirrel-proof design. The weight-activated Seed Shield closes ports when squirrels try to feed, and the Sure-Lock cap prevents them from removing the lid. The feeder’s patented Flexports also allow for a more optimal feeding position outside the port, so birds feel safer and stay longer. We’ve noticed that birds are now visiting our backyard more frequently and staying longer to feed.
One downside is that the feeder’s weight-activated perch system is calibrated to support the weight of birds but not squirrels, so it may take some time for birds to get used to the new feeding system. Additionally, the feeder’s placement is key to ensuring it is 100% squirrel proof, which may require some trial and error to find the perfect spot. Finally, the feeder’s 4-pound capacity may not be sufficient for those who want to feed birds for longer periods without refilling.
Overall, we would highly recommend the Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Max Bird Feeder to anyone looking for a squirrel-proof bird feeder that offers optimal feeding for birds. Its unique design and features make it a great investment for anyone who loves birdwatching.
Ottsuls Solar Bird Feeder for Outdoors Hanging
If you’re looking for a bird feeder that doubles as a solar garden lantern, the Ottsuls Solar Bird Feeder for Outdoors Hanging is a great choice.
Pros
- The solar-powered light lasts up to 6-10 hours when fully charged, providing a beautiful glow at night.
- Made of durable metal, this feeder is weatherproof and water-resistant, ensuring it will last for a long time.
- With a large capacity of 2.2 pounds, this feeder can hold plenty of seed for your feathered friends.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the trough opening is too small for larger seeds like sunflower seeds.
- The solar light is not as bright when the feeder is filled to capacity, so it’s best to keep it half full for optimal lighting effects.
- The blue color may not be everyone’s preference for a bird feeder.
We recently purchased the Ottsuls Solar Bird Feeder for Outdoors Hanging and have been very pleased with its performance. The solar-powered light is a beautiful addition to our backyard at night, and the feeder is easy to fill and clean. The metal construction is sturdy and we appreciate the anti-rust coating to ensure it lasts for a long time.
One thing to note is that the trough opening may be too small for larger seeds like sunflower seeds, so it’s best to use smaller seeds to ensure they can be dispensed properly. Additionally, the solar light is not as bright when the feeder is filled to capacity, so we recommend keeping it half full for optimal lighting effects.
Overall, the Ottsuls Solar Bird Feeder for Outdoors Hanging is a great choice for those looking for a bird feeder that doubles as a solar garden lantern. It’s durable, easy to fill and clean, and provides a beautiful glow at night.
Kingsyard Bird Feeder House
If you’re looking for a durable and weatherproof bird feeder that can attract a variety of birds, the Kingsyard Bird Feeder House is an excellent option.
Pros
- The charming house design is sturdy and weather-resistant, making it a great long-term investment.
- The built-in drainage holes ensure that the seeds remain fresh, and the three compartments can be filled with different types of seeds to attract a wider variety of birds.
- The feeder is easy to refill and clean, with a lid that lifts easily to allow for hassle-free filling and cleaning.
Cons
- The larger seeds can get caught up on the side bins, but they flow freely in the middle.
- The feeder is smaller than some other models, which may limit the number of birds that can feed at once.
- The metal construction may rust over time, especially in coastal areas.
We recently purchased the Kingsyard Bird Feeder House for our backyard, and we’ve been pleased with its performance so far. The feeder has a charming design that adds a touch of whimsy to our outdoor space, and it’s sturdy enough to withstand the elements. We’ve noticed a wider variety of birds feeding at the feeder since we started using it, thanks to the three compartments that can hold different types of seeds.
One of the standout features of this feeder is the built-in drainage holes, which ensure that the seeds remain fresh and don’t get waterlogged. This is especially important during rainy seasons, when other feeders we’ve used in the past have become moldy or unusable. The feeder is also easy to refill and clean, with a lid that lifts easily to allow for hassle-free filling and cleaning.
There are a few downsides to this feeder, however. We’ve noticed that the larger seeds can get caught up on the side bins, but they flow freely in the middle. Additionally, the feeder is smaller than some other models we’ve used, which may limit the number of birds that can feed at once. Finally, the metal construction may rust over time, especially in coastal areas.
Overall, we’re happy with our purchase of the Kingsyard Bird Feeder House. It’s a durable and weather-resistant feeder that attracts a variety of birds, and it’s easy to refill and clean. If you’re looking for a new bird feeder for your backyard, this is definitely one to consider.
Droll Yankees YF-M Yankee Flipper Squirrel-Proof Wild Bird Feeder With Weight Activated Rotating Perch – 5Lbs Seed Capacity
If you’re looking for a squirrel-proof bird feeder that’s both effective and entertaining, the Droll Yankees YF-M Yankee Flipper is a great option. This feeder features a weight-activated rotating perch that spins squirrels off when they try to access the ports, but allows large birds to feed without issue. Here are the pros and cons of this feeder:
Pros
- The weight-activated spinning perch is 100% squirrel-proof, while still allowing birds to feed.
- Four feeding ports allow multiple birds to dine at the same time.
- The feeder is made with heavy-duty metal components that have been powder-coated, ensuring superior durability.
Cons
- The feeder is on the pricey side.
- While the rechargeable batteries last a long time, they do require charging.
- The feeder’s 5 lb seed capacity may not be enough for those with large bird populations.
We recently purchased the Droll Yankees YF-M Yankee Flipper and have been impressed with its performance. The feeder is well-made and sturdy, and the weight-activated perch works exactly as advertised. We’ve enjoyed watching the squirrels take a ride on the spinning perch, and the birds have been able to feed without issue.
The feeder is easy to fill and clean, with a lift-off lid and wide-mouth seed reservoir. The feeder’s squirrel-proof design ensures less seed waste, which means birds can enjoy more seed and you’ll save money on seed. We’ve also appreciated the feeder’s lifetime warranty on the feeder body and one-year warranty on the motor and battery charger.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, squirrel-proof bird feeder that’s both effective and entertaining, the Droll Yankees YF-M Yankee Flipper is a great choice.
Nature Anywhere Premium Clear Plastic Window Bird Feeder for Outside
If you’re looking for a bird feeder that is easy to install and provides a clear view of your feathered friends, the Nature Anywhere Premium Clear Plastic Window Bird Feeder for Outside is a great choice.
Pros
- The feeder is easy to install and requires no assembly.
- The suction cups are strong and keep the feeder securely in place.
- The clear plastic design provides an unobstructed view of the birds.
Cons
- The feeder is relatively small and may need to be refilled frequently.
- The sliding tray can be difficult to remove for cleaning.
- The feeder is not squirrel-proof and may attract unwanted critters.
We were impressed with how easy it was to install the Nature Anywhere Premium Clear Plastic Window Bird Feeder for Outside. The suction cups held the feeder securely in place, and we had no issues with it falling down. The clear plastic design provided a great view of the birds, and we enjoyed watching them come and go throughout the day.
One downside of this feeder is that it is relatively small and may need to be refilled frequently, especially if you have a lot of birds visiting. Additionally, the sliding tray can be difficult to remove for cleaning, which may be a hassle for some users.
Another potential issue is that the feeder is not squirrel-proof and may attract unwanted critters. However, we did not have any issues with squirrels during our testing.
Overall, we would recommend the Nature Anywhere Premium Clear Plastic Window Bird Feeder for Outside to anyone looking for an easy-to-install feeder that provides a clear view of the birds.
SOFMOOEL Smart Bird Feeder with Camera
If you want to observe birds up close and personal, the SOFMOOEL Smart Bird Feeder with Camera is a great option.
Pros
- The high-definition camera captures birds clearly during the day and night, providing an excellent visual experience.
- The 2L large capacity design stores enough food for birds, so you don’t need to replenish food frequently.
- The built-in 5000mAh rechargeable battery can run for up to 3 months in standby mode, making it convenient for outdoor use.
Cons
- The price point may be a bit steep for some.
- The bird feeder may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
- The bird feeder may not be suitable for very large birds.
We were impressed with the SOFMOOEL Smart Bird Feeder with Camera. The 4MP HD camera with night vision provided clear images of the birds, and the bird-friendly design ensured that the birds were safe and comfortable. The battery design was also convenient, as we didn’t have to worry about constantly charging the device.
One thing to note is that the price point may be a bit high for some, but we believe that the features and convenience of this bird feeder make it worth the investment. Additionally, while the bird feeder is suitable for large birds, it may not be the best option for very large birds.
Overall, we highly recommend the SOFMOOEL Smart Bird Feeder with Camera for anyone who wants to observe birds up close and personal. It’s a great investment for bird lovers and provides an excellent visual experience.
SWEETFULL Solar Bird Feeder for Outdoors Hanging
If you are looking for a bird feeder that also doubles as a solar garden lantern, the SWEETFULL Solar Bird Feeder for Outdoors Hanging might be a great choice for you.
Pros
- The hollow-out design allows for easy observation of the remaining seed level.
- The durable metal construction is rain-resistant, anti-rust coated, and polished all over the surface.
- The “S” pothook makes it easy to hang directly in your patio or beside a birdhouse.
Cons
- The feeder lacks drainage holes, so it needs to be cleaned after it rains to avoid clogging and mold.
- Some larger birds like cardinals and blue jays may have trouble perching on it.
- The gold paint may have scuff marks or scratches upon arrival.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the SWEETFULL Solar Bird Feeder for Outdoors Hanging, and we were pleasantly surprised by its quality and functionality. The feeder is made of durable metal, which not only shades the sunlight but also is rain-resistant and anti-rust coated, ensuring it can be preserved for a long time. The polished surface is also a nice touch that adds to the feeder’s aesthetic appeal.
One of the standout features of this bird feeder is the solar garden lantern. The hollow-out design allows you to observe the remaining seed level easily while also providing a nice ambiance in your garden. The solar light lasts for up to 11 hours after charging for six hours under direct sunlight.
The feeder is also very easy to use and clean. The “S” pothook makes it easy to hang directly in your patio or beside a birdhouse, and the cap on the top allows for easy filling of seeds or food. To clean, simply wash it directly with water and then dry it out.
However, we did notice a few downsides to this feeder. The lack of drainage holes means that it needs to be cleaned after it rains to avoid clogging and mold. Additionally, some larger birds like cardinals and blue jays may have trouble perching on it. Finally, the gold paint may have scuff marks or scratches upon arrival, which may be a turnoff for some buyers.
Overall, we think that the SWEETFULL Solar Bird Feeder for Outdoors Hanging is a great choice for those looking for a functional and aesthetically pleasing bird feeder with a solar garden lantern. If you have any questions, SWEETFULL provides a 180-day warranty, and their customer service is always available to help.
Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Bird Feeder
If you’re looking for a bird feeder that keeps squirrels out and accommodates multiple birds, the Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Bird Feeder might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The weight-activated system keeps squirrels out, while allowing birds to access the feeding ports.
- With six feeding ports, multiple birds can dine at the same time.
- The metal cage is finished with a powder coating to ensure rust resistance for all-weather durability.
Cons
- Some birds may find it difficult to perch long enough to get the seeds.
- The plastic seed holder inside may oxidize in the sun.
- The spring mechanism needs to be very sensitive to prevent chipmunks from eating the seeds.
We recently tried out the Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Bird Feeder in our backyard, and we were impressed with its design and function. The metal cage is adorned with a leafy design that looks great in any yard, and the powder coating adds to the rustic finish while ensuring rust resistance.
The weight-activated system is calibrated to support the weight of birds but not squirrels, which is a great feature. When squirrels try to gain access to the perches, the cage is pulled down, causing the decorative leaves to cover the ports. In addition, the metal cage prevents squirrel chewing and damage.
We also appreciated the fact that this feeder has built-in drain holes to prevent water from pooling in the reservoir, so there’s less seed waste. With the clear reservoir, it’s easy to monitor seed levels at a glance so you never run out during peak feeding times.
Overall, we would recommend the Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone Bird Feeder to anyone looking for a squirrel-resistant bird feeder that accommodates multiple birds. It’s durable, functional, and looks great in any yard.
Buying Guide
When it comes to selecting a bird feeder for large birds, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind to help you choose the best product for your needs.
Feeder Size
One of the most important features to consider is the size of the feeder. Large birds require a large feeding area, so you should look for a feeder that can accommodate their size. Make sure that the feeding ports and perches are large enough to comfortably accommodate the birds you want to attract.
Material
The material of the feeder is also an important consideration. Look for a feeder made from durable materials such as metal or sturdy plastic. This will ensure that the feeder can withstand the weight and force of large birds.
Seed Capacity
The seed capacity of the feeder is another important factor to consider. Large birds require a lot of food, so you should look for a feeder with a large seed capacity. This will help to reduce the frequency of refills.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning your bird feeder is important for maintaining the health of the birds that visit your feeder. Look for a feeder that is easy to disassemble and clean. This will make it easier for you to keep the feeder clean and prevent the buildup of mold and bacteria.
Weather Resistance
Finally, consider the weather resistance of the feeder. Look for a feeder that is designed to withstand the elements, such as rain, wind, and snow. This will help to ensure that the feeder lasts for many seasons and provides a reliable food source for the birds in your area.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best bird feeder for large birds that will provide a reliable and safe food source for the birds in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of bird feeders are suitable for Blue Jays and similar large birds?
When it comes to feeding Blue Jays and other large birds, hopper feeders and platform feeders are the most suitable options. These feeders provide enough space for larger birds to perch and feed comfortably. Additionally, hopper feeders have a roof that protects the seeds from getting wet, which is especially important during rainy weather.
How do you choose a platform bird feeder that accommodates large birds?
When choosing a platform bird feeder for large birds, it’s important to look for one that is sturdy and has a large enough surface area for the birds to perch on. The feeder should also have a raised edge to prevent the seeds from spilling over the sides. Additionally, make sure the feeder is easy to clean and refill.
Which features are important in a bird feeder for attracting woodpeckers?
Woodpeckers are attracted to suet feeders, which are designed to hold suet cakes. These feeders have a wire cage that holds the suet cake in place and allows the woodpeckers to cling onto the feeder while they feed. Additionally, look for a suet feeder that has a tail prop, which gives the woodpeckers extra support while they feed.
What are the advantages of a hopper bird feeder for larger bird species?
Hopper bird feeders have a large capacity and can hold a lot of seeds, which is perfect for larger bird species that consume more food. Additionally, hopper feeders have a roof that protects the seeds from getting wet, which is especially important during rainy weather. Some hopper feeders also have a built-in tray that catches any seeds that spill out.
Are there bird feeders designed specifically for feeding crows and other large birds?
There are bird feeders designed specifically for feeding crows and other large birds, such as the platform feeder. These feeders have a large surface area and can accommodate multiple birds at once. Additionally, platform feeders can be placed on the ground, which is perfect for crows and other birds that prefer to feed on the ground.
How can a roofed platform bird feeder benefit large birds?
A roofed platform bird feeder can benefit large birds by providing them with a sheltered feeding area. The roof protects the seeds from getting wet and provides shade during sunny weather. Additionally, the raised edges of the platform prevent the seeds from spilling over the sides, which reduces waste and attracts more birds.
