The 10 Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders : Reviews and Buying Guide

The 10 Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders : Reviews and Buying Guide(2020)

If you love to put out seed for your neighborhood birds and enjoy the sight of them feasting upon it, you’ve likely felt the frustration that comes with squirrels stealing the seed.

This is a common problem, because many bird feeders don’t offer any protection against squirrels. Many squirrels will climb as much as they have to in order to get to the seed, and they don’t have any moral issues with eating the seed that you specifically bought for your local birds.

If you’ve had this problem before, you may be on the hunt for the best squirrel-proof bird feeders of 2019 and beyond. If that’s the case, keep reading, as we’re going to outline some of the best options on the market and show you everything you need to know before you start up your shopping.

By the end of this group of comprehensive reviews, you should be armed with all the knowledge you need to prevent squirrel theft and keep the seed that you buy for your birds.

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Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders – Reviews of the 10 Top Picks


Squirrel Buster Standard Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder – 9.5/10.0

Features & Specifications

  • Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 21 inches (approx. 13 x 13 x 53 cm)
  • Weight: 1.6 pounds (approx. 726 g)
  • Seed saver technology

Pros

  • Uses weight-based squirrel prevention
  • Chew- proof—won’t let squirrels chew through
  • Doesn’t require tools for assembly

Cons

  • Very plain design

Editorial Review

If you’re looking for a very basic squirrel-proof feeder that your birds can still enjoy, this is a good one to consider. This plain green bird feeder made by Brome is effective and moderately affordable, and you can save money by purchasing it in bulk, if you have multiple areas in which you’d like to install a feeder.

What Others Are Saying

Feedback on this feeder is generally very positive. This feeder is known not for being the most decorative, but for (arguably!) being the most effective. Its squirrel prevention system is effective and the strong metal cage that surrounds the seed can even keep out larger animals. One past user testified that this feeder kept out a bear!


Squirrel Solution 200 Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder with 6 Feeding Ports – 9.0/10.0

Features & Specifications

  • Dimensions: 20 x 4 x 20 inches (approx. 51 x 10 x 51 cm)
  • Weight: 2.5 pounds (approx. 1 kg)
  • Made of metal

Pros

  • Strong and durable construction
  • More decorative than other plain options
  • Green color complements any decor
  • 6 feeding ports for an abundance of birds

Cons

  • More expensive option

Editorial Review

If you liked the basic design of our last suggestion, but would like a bit more functionality and a larger capacity, you’d be wise to consider this premium option by Brome. This feeder is fully squirrel- proof, due to the fact that its feeding ports close when it senses the weight of a squirrel. It’s also chew-proof and features six feeding ports, so you can enjoy watching many birds on the feeder at one time!

What Others Are Saying

The outlook on this product is favorable. Many people love products by Brome, and this is a great next step for someone looking for a feeder with a larger capacity than others. One complaint was that some squirrels are smart enough to get around the shroud that drops when their weight is on it. This is very rare, but it’s still something to look out for.


Perky-Pet 336 Squirrel-Be-Gone Wild Bird Feeder – 9.5/10.0

Features & Specifications

  • Dimensions: 7.6 x 7 x 19.8 inches (approx. 19 x 18 x 50 cm)
  • Weight: 1.35 pounds (approx. 612 g)
  • Made of metal

Pros

  • Comes in multi-packs
  • Weight system for squirrel prevention
  • Very affordable

Cons

  • Lower-quality construction

Editorial Review

If you want to get a squirrel-proof feeder, but you’re on a budget, this is a good option for you. This feeder has all the properties you might desire, including metal construction, multiple feeding ports and a weight-based squirrel prevention system. Perhaps most importantly, it all comes at a very affordable price. The seed capacity of this product isn’t bad, either.

What Others Are Saying

For the most part, people agree that this feeder offers pretty good value. Although there have been some issues with the quality of the welding and construction, most people think that for the money, this is a pretty good bird feeder. It’s one of the more affordable options on our list.


Perky-Pet Country House Bird Feeder – 9.0/10.0

Features & Specifications

  • Dimensions: 11.7 x 14.5 x 10.7 inches (approx. 30 x 37 x 27 cm)
  • Weight: 4.45 pounds (2 kg)
  • Comes in multiple colors

Pros

  • Unique design
  • Has a large capacity
  • Removable roof for easy filling

Cons

  • Doesn’t go with every type of decor or color scheme

Editorial Review

If you want a unique bird feeder that stands out and is also effective, you should consider the Country House feeder by Perky-Pet. Its unique country house design will stick out in your garden and make your neighbors envious. It’s easy to fill, helps keep squirrels out effectively and is made from durable metal. For a feeder with such an excellent design, it’s also very affordable.

What Others Are Saying

The consensus on this feeder is that it’s unique, it’s vibrant and it’ll provide you with another pleasant thing to look at while you’re watching the birds in your yard. People love that it comes in multiple colors and that it’s easy to hang and fill.


Roamwild Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder

Features & Specifications

  • Dimensions: 16.5 x 7.6 x 7.6 inches (approx. 42 x 19 x 19 cm)
  • Weight: 1.54 pounds (approx. 699 g)
  • Made from resin

Pros

  • 3-pound seed capacity
  • Good value for the money
  • Waterproof

Cons

  • Not made from metal
  • Resin could be chewed through

Editorial Review

This lightweight option is great for those who have a light squirrel problem and don’t want to shell out big bucks for something made of metal. The squirrel prevention system is nifty and effective and will help keep most squirrels from getting your seed.

What Others Are Saying

Most of the time, this feeder will work just fine when it comes to preventing squirrels, but some squirrels might choose to chew through the plastic part of the feeder to get to the seed. This is rare, but can sometimes happen.


More Birds X-1 Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder – 9.5/10.0

Features & Specifications

  • Dimensions: 5.8 x 12 x 15.6 inches (15 x 30 x 40 cm)
  • Weight: 2.12 pounds (approx 962 g)
  • Contains 4 feeding ports

Pros

  • Large seed capacity to save you time
  • Attractive satin nickel finish
  • Wide mouth for easy filling

Cons

  • Resin parts could be chewed through

Editorial Review

This feeder is great for those who don’t want to spend time constantly refilling the seed. It’s easy to use and has such a large capacity, one round of seeds may feed your birds for weeks. It’s also lightweight and can prevent squirrels from accessing the seed. The downside of this feeder is that the resin provides an opportunity for squirrels to chew right through it.

What Others Are Saying

Most people who love this feeder are those who only have a mild squirrel problem and don’t have squirrels who are willing to chew through the feeder. Some users have complained about squirrels chewing through it, but for the most part, this is a highly effective feeder that will help decrease the number of squirrels that are eating and stealing your birdseed.


Woodlink Absolute II Bird Feeder – 10.0/10.0

Features & Specifications

  • Dimensions: 13.5 x 16 x 11.2 inches (approx. 34 x 41 x 28 cm)
  • Weight: 9.85 pounds (approx. 4 kg)
  • Adjustable weight setting to suit different types of birds

Pros

  • Durable steel body
  • Weight system closes access to seed when squirrels are on it
  • Large 2-gallon (approx. 8-litre) capacity

Cons

  • More expensive option

Editorial Review

This should be considered one of the premium options when it comes to squirrel-proof bird feeders. It will close when it senses the weight of a squirrel and it’s made of high-quality powdered steel that will stand up well against outdoor elements.

What Others Are Saying

This is one of the highest-rated squirrel-proof feeders out there, because it’s simple and effective. However, it’s not very decorative and it’s also one of the more expensive options on our list. Past users tout its effectiveness as the main trait.


Gray Bunny GB-6860 Caged Tube Feeder – 9.0/10.0

Features & Specifications

  • Dimensions: 6.5 x 6.5 x 10 inches (approx. 17 x 17 x 25 cm)
  • Weight: 14.1 ounces (approx. 400 g)
  • 1 feeding port

Pros

  • Clear housing so you can easily see when it needs a refill
  • Very affordable compared to other options
  • Made from high-quality, durable metal

Cons

  • Prevents larger birds from enjoying seed

Editorial Review

If you’re looking to have only small birds enjoy the seed you’ve put out, then this is a good feeder for you. The caged design will keep out large birds and squirrels, and there’s no way for them to chew through the feeder or somehow get in. The cage is incredibly effective, but it does restrict the types of birds that can eat at this particular feeder.

What Others Are Saying

Past users of this product love that it’s affordable and very effective. We agree! This small bird feeder is ideal for those who don’t want anything but small birds accessing their seed. The downside, according to many users, is that it will stop you from enjoying the larger birds that sometimes want to join in on the fun.


Droll Yankees Flipper Squirrel-Proof Feeder – 8.5/10.0

Features & Specifications

  • Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 28.5 inches (approx. 22 x 22 x 72 cm)
  • Weight: 5 pounds (approx. 2 kg)
  • 5-pound (approx. 2 kg) seed capacity

Pros

  • Simple and effective design
  • Goes with any outdoor decor
  • Includes battery and AC/DC adapter

Cons

  • Expensive for what it is
  • Have to recharge battery

Editorial Review

This is probably the most effective design on the market these days, but it’s also the most expensive. It comes with a motorized perch that spins whenever the weight of a squirrel is detected. This can be very effective in deterring squirrels, but you’ll also have to stay on top of recharging the battery so that it continues to work.

What Others Are Saying

While almost everyone agrees that this feeder has an incredibly effective design, past users do complain that it’s a pain to have to recharge the battery on a regular basis. However, those who’ve had frequent run-ins with squirrels swear by its effectiveness. If you’re committed to fighting the squirrels, past users would agree that this is the right one for you.


Myard MBF 75160-G Double Sided Bird Feeder – 10.0/10.0

Features & Specifications

  • Dimensions: 12 x 9 x 9 inches (approx. 30 x 23 x 23 cm)
  • Weight: 3.2 pounds (approx. 1 kg)
  • Made from steel

Pros

  • Extendable perch length
  • Attractive powder blue design
  • Holds plenty of seed at one time

Cons

  • None

Editorial Review

If you’re looking for a feeder that combines simplicity and effectiveness with style and a pleasant appearance, this is definitely the right one for you. We consider this to be the best feeder on our list when it comes to allowing all kinds of birds in while keeping squirrels out.

What Others Are Saying

Past users of this product love that it’s so easy to use and so effective at preventing squirrels from entering. They say that squirrels chewing through the material has never been a problem, since the feeder is made from solid metal. Furthermore, they’re happy that it attracts many kinds of birds that they love to watch.

Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder Buying Guide


When you’re ready to shop for a squirrel-proof bird feeder, there are some things you’re going to want to know beforehand, so you can snag the best feeder for your personal situation. To assist you with your choice, we’ve compiled a guide to five of the determining factors we used to decide which bird feeders to put on this top 10 list.

One important thing to remember is that each and every one of these factors may not be important to you. For that reason, you should decide which factors are most important before you start shopping, so you can quickly narrow down your search to the bird feeders that meet your criteria.

Durability

This is perhaps the biggest factor to consider when deciding on a bird feeder. Bird feeders are unique products, because they hang outside and are constantly exposed to outdoor elements, such as rain, snow, wind, humidity and animals crawling all over them. With that in mind, it’s best to get a bird feeder that’s able to stand the test of time.

Some bird feeders can represent quite an investment. If you don’t want to have to constantly buy bird feeders, thereby spending more and more money, then investing in a quality one right off the bat is a good idea. The durability of a bird feeder can hinge on a number of things, but most prominently, it’s based on its material and coating, which we’ll cover next on our list.

Material

The next consideration you may want to take into account is the material your bird feeder is made out of. This matters not just because of durability and stability, but also because of the feeder’s weight.

Generally, you’re going to want to get bird feeders that are made out of metal, because they’re more durable and better at standing up to squirrels that are trying to get in. Plastic can be easy to chew through, but there’s little to no chance that a squirrel is going to forcibly get into a high-quality bird feeder that’s mainly made of metal.

However, there are situations in which getting a lighter bird feeder made of a durable resin is a better choice. For instance, if you’re looking for a bird feeder on a budget, you might find that you get the most value out of a resin feeder, since they’re generally durable in the face of bad weather and don’t cost nearly as much as their metal counterparts.

Another situation in which you might find yourself looking for a resin option is if you need a lighter bird feeder than usual. This could be the case if you have an unstable pole, or if you’re having a hard time physically lifting your metal bird feeders. Resin is durable and light, so it’ll be easier for you to move this type of bird feeder when needed.

Finish

When it comes to the finish type, there are a couple of different options. Most people don’t think about the finish of their bird feeder that much, but it’s actually quite important, due to the conditions that bird feeders are often kept in.

If you’re getting a metal bird feeder, you should pay especially close attention to the type of finish it has. This can determine whether or not your bird feeder will develop rust and other issues that may cause it to look unattractive or even break while outside.

As much as a bird feeder is a functional piece of yard furniture that’s meant to serve a specific need, you also want it to be nice to look at.

On that note, in regard to a bird feeder’s looks, the finish actually does play a large role. This is relevant, regardless of whether your bird feeder is made of metal or resin. You should always make sure the bird feeder you purchase has an attractive finish that will look great with any outdoor décor you have.

Effectiveness

Of course, the most important factor when examining any squirrel-proof bird feeder is its effectiveness at preventing squirrels from getting into your seed. If the feeder isn’t effective and doesn’t prevent squirrels from getting in, then it could be a waste of money that isn’t worth your time, either.

You should read past customer reviews on each bird feeder you’re interested in, to ensure that they’re going to be effective at keeping out squirrels, as past customers often have a lot of useful things to say.  

Getting a proper, effective squirrel-proof bird feeder is absolutely essential, as it can save you time and money down the road, since you won’t be replacing your birdseed as frequently.

In the long term, getting a squirrel-proof bird feeder and saving your seed for your birds is a great investment. There are a number of different methods that bird feeders employ to keep squirrels out, and which one works best seems to be mainly a matter of preference. If you’re not sure which one to choose, you should read up on each method to see which one will best suit you.

Value

One of the most important factors in your decision should also be value. Value doesn’t necessarily mean affordability, but how much use you can get out of a product in comparison to the cost. For bird feeders, that means finding the right balance between something that’s affordable and something that’s highly effective.

The goal here is to get a feeder that works very well, is durable and meets all your needs, while staying on the more affordable side of the price range for squirrel-proof feeders.

When you’re shopping for a squirrel-proof feeder, be sure to weigh the benefits of each feeder against its cost, and compare each feeder to others with the same cost.

  • Are there more features?
  • Will this one last longer than the others?
  • Is it more effective?

These are all questions you should be asking yourself, as they’ll help you determine the true value of a certain bird feeder.


The Bottom Line

All things considered, it’s pretty clear that the Myard Double Sided Feeder is the best squirrel-proof bird feeder. It’s basically a combination of everything you’d want in a feeder, and while it’s not the cheapest, it does provide the most value for its price. We’d highly recommend this particular feeder if you’re looking for something to help prevent your squirrel problem.

image: DJHeini