On the hunt for the best bird feeder? Help hungry birds while adding interest to your garden with these beautifully shaped and ingeniously constructed bird feeders.
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What is the best bird feeder?
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In our opinion, the best bird feeder is the , which not only provides space for birds to feed, but to drink and bathe, too.
It’s easy to put together, aesthetically pleasing and a functional way to feed the local wildlife. Simply hammer into the ground and wait and see what you attract. See a quick list of all our favourite below and where to buy them:
Our recommended retailers for the best bird feeders
- The best bird feeder:
- Best bird feeder for design:
- Best traditional bird feeder:
- Best bird feeder for decoration:
- Best bird feeder for fresh fruit and seed balls: Hanging Apple Bird Feeder
The best bird feeders you can buy right now
Attract plenty of birds with this . Featuring four different hanging feeders as well as two water dishes for bathing and drinking, it’s perfect if you’re looking to support local feathered friends in more than one way.
It’s easy to put together and is aesthetically pleasing as well as being a functional way to feed the birds. Simply hammer into the grass to secure in position and wait and see what wildlife you attract.
Shop more bird feeders available at Amazon
Designed to resemble a weaver bird’s nest, these stylish glass will fit seamlessly into any scheme. Ideal for a garden, terrace or balcony, they make popular feeding stations for small birds. Plus, their glass design means you can see exactly what’s going on with the feeding birds inside.
Shop the full range of bird feeders available from John Lewis & Partners
This is sturdy and looks stylish in any type of garden. It has a platform with a little roof which provides shelter for the birdseed so it doesn’t get wet.
It’s said to be easy to assemble, and won’t need planting into the ground as it has a base which allows it to stand freely. This is great for attracting little birds to the garden and the wood will wear well.
Shop more bird feeders available from Argos
This little bird feeder wouldn’t look out of place in any garden, but we imagine it working particularly well in a small garden, hung from a tree or shed, to attract more wildlife. It could also make a lovely gift for garden or bird lovers.
Simple yet smart, the Hanging Apple bird feeder is perfect if you want to feed fresh fruit and seed balls, as opposed to dried seeds and grain.
This delicate structure will look great in your garden – we like the French grey finish that gives it an on-trend look.
There's no nice presentation box with this one, but, at the price point it is, we're not complaining.
Shop more bird feeders available from Not On The Highstreet
How to buy the best bird feeder
When it comes to buying the best bird feeder, there are a few factors worth considering before making an investment. These include:
Function
First, you’ll want to think about what you’re looking to achieve with your bird feeder. Do you want to feed anything and everything that will accept your offerings? Or do you want to create feeding stations with the specific nourishment preferred by different birds, as well as spots for them to drink and bathe?
Do you have any pets?
If you, or your neighbours, own cats or dogs, you’ll want to consider investing in a bird feeder that’s going to keep the food – and birds – out of harm’s way. Remember, cats can jump and climb, too, so be careful about your bird feeder positioning.
Do you want to make a feature of your bird feeder?
You’ll also want to think about whether you intend to draw the eye to your bird feeder. If your garden is awash with confident birds, you may wish to opt for something that will be both in sight and attractive. However, if you’re trying to encourage birds to explore your garden, aesthetics matter less and something tucked away should do the job.
How to stop squirrels stealing bird food
Some people don’t mind them, but hungry squirrels can (and do) eat all the bird food, leaving nothing for the birds. There are couple of methods to remedy this situation, without harming the squirrels:
- Get a squirrel-proof feeder. You’ll be limited for designs, but it’s a way to prevent the squirrels from getting in. Bear in mind, though, that some clever critters may still find a way to the food.
- Use bird food squirrels don’t like so much, such as millet.
- Create a feeding station for the squirrels away from the bird feeder. Nuts and corn are favourites, so put some out for them in a designated area, preferably up in a tree. They may still go for the bird food, but in fewer numbers.
Looking for more gardening and wildlife advice and inspiration?
- Trying to live a green life? See our 9 ways to create a sustainable garden
- Tidying your garden? Don’t forget to kit yourself out with a pair of the best gardening gloves