Squirrels usually don’t eat birds. But, they still end up scaring your little garden friends because they like bird seeds.
That is when feeding birds get a little tricky. You have a lot of options, though. One option is to buy a squirrel-proof bird feeder.
Luckily, there are a lot of squirrel-proof bird feeders available in the market. Check out our top picks and what to look for when buying one.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What To Look For When Choosing The Best Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder
Choosing the best bird feeder for you and your garden may not be quite as simple as it sounds.
With so many choices out there, you must consider all the important factors before making your choice. The following are some considerations to get you started:
Price
Price is an important one for many. Bird feeders cost anywhere from $20 to over $100. So, before shopping around too much, determine your budget and go from there.
User Feedback
User feedback is an extremely useful tool for those looking to buy the best possible product. If you see a bird feeder you think looks good, check the reviews.
If you see a bird feeder you think looks good, check the reviews.
How much negative feedback does it have? What are they saying exactly?
It’s important to remember that no product is going to be perfect, and it will always have a few bad reviews. Pay attention to the balance of good and bad reviews.
Size
Size does matter when choosing your bird feeder. Large feeders will be able to accommodate multiple birds, and you won’t’ have to refill it as often.
On the downside, they may be more prone to squirrels trying to get in. Even their attempts to access the seeds can cause damage.
Smaller bird feeders are great for attracting smaller birds and won’t be as prone to squirrel damage.
Design
For many, the design will be important as well. Some bird feeders look like little houses and are really fun and cute.
Others have different colors, and others are plain grey or black.
Some bird feeders are designed in a way that is practical and effective, but they aren’t very interesting or attractive.
So, before starting your search, you’ll need to decide what type of design you’re looking for.
Other characteristics
Lastly, there are several other characteristics you can look for. Weight is one of them. Also, some larger bird feeders are well-designed. They may be too heavy for the poles or hangers you have available. Pay attention to this when buying.
Some bird feeders have cages around them to keep the squirrels out. This is an innovative idea but isn’t always attractive.
Top 24 Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders
1. Stokes Select Giant Combo Bird Feeder
This is another bird feeder that is on the larger side with a ten-pound seed capacity. It’s designed in such a way that birds can choose how to feed. They can perch on the tray, cling to the screen, or hang upside down.
- Pros
- Large seed capacity
- It allows for multiple feeding positions.
- The metal materials are strong and durable.
- It has an easy fill system.
- Cons
- The drainage holes require frequent cleaning.
- The screen is a little tight for some birds to get the seed out.
This unique, durable bird feeder is large, durable, and will attract multiple birds.
2. Squirrel Buster Plus Squirrel-proof Bird Feeder
This bird feeder has a 5-pound seed capacity and six feeding ports, giving multiple birds plenty of room to feed.
It comes with a cardinal ring to attract Northern Cardinals and is chew-proof on all exposed parts of the feeder.
- Pros:
- The product comes with a lifetime care warranty.
- No tools required to set up or install.
- Includes an adjustable spring that allows you control over what type of birds you attract.
- Cons:
- Seeds sometimes drop as birds fly away.
- Larger and heavier than other feeders.
- Some birds have difficulty landing on it.
This bird feeder is truly squirrel proof, offering many feeding ports and a large capacity for seeds.
3. Squirrel Buster Standard Squirrel-proof Bird Feeder
This is a smaller and more compact bird feeder, including 4 metal perches and a 1.3-pound seed capacity. The weight of a squirrel on this feeder will close the ports, denying them access.
- Pros
- This feeder comes with a lifetime care warranty.
- Includes a seed ventilation system to maintain freshness.
- No tools required for setup or installation.
- Cons
- Prone to rust if exposed to too much rain.
- Must be disassembled to add seed.
- Some birds have difficulty balancing on the perch.
Easy to assemble and squirrel proof, this feeder is great for attracting small birds and keeping seeds fresh for longer.
4. Perky-Pet 336 Squirrel-Be-Gone Wild Bird Feeder
This all-metal bird feeder has a two-pound seed capacity and six feeding ports. Its rustic design looks great in the garden, and the powder-coated finish offers resistance to rust.
- Pros
- The weight-activated age denies access to squirrels.
- Versatile perches allow a variety of birds to feed.
- Rust-resistant.
- Cons
- Some squirrels have figured out a way around the mechanism.
- At full capacity, the feeder can become too heavy for the hanging wire.
This feeder is squirrel-proof, rust-resistant, and versatile while also giving a pleasant, rustic look to your garden.
5. Perky-Pet 339 Squirrel Be Gone II Feeder Home with Chimney
This bird feeder has a cute, unique house design. You can easily remove the roof for convenient filling, allowing for up to eight pounds of seed. The all-metal construction is durable, and the feeder can be either hung or mounted.
- Pros
- Large seed capacity.
- Unique design.
- Strong and durable.
- Cons
- Some birds struggle to balance on the perch.
- The bright color can be off-putting to some birds.
- May be prone to tilting when pole-mounted.
This bird feeder is both fun and convenient, as it holds a lot of seed at once and works to keep the squirrels at bay.
6. Perky-Pet 338 Squirrel-Be-Gone II Country House Bird Feeder
This bird feeder features an aesthetically pleasing two-tone accent and a large eight-pound seed capacity. The roof snaps off and locks back into place, making for easy filling and squirrel-blocking.
- Pros
- Large seed capacity.
- It can be hang or be mounted.
- Easy filling
- Cons
- Some squirrels can figure out the lid.
- Some birds struggle to balance on the perch.
A cute, interesting, versatile bird feeder that keeps the squirrels out effectively.
7. Squirrel Buster Classic Squirrel-proof Bird Feeder
This medium-sized bird feeder features four feeding ports and a 2.4-pound seed capacity. It has a tall and narrow design and a chew-proof finish.
- Pros
- It comes with a lifetime care warranty.
- No tools needed for an easy setup and installation process.
- Includes a seed ventilation system for freshness.
- Cons
- It does not attract a wide variety of birds.
- Some seeds may fall as the birds jump away from it.
- Birds get stuck.
A good size and squirrel proof, this easy, chew-proof bird feeder will be a staple in your garden.
8. Perky-Pet C00322 Red Cardinal Bird Feeder
This bird feeder has a unique design and a beautiful, bright color. It offers a large feeding area and attracts Red Cardinals, Chickadees, and other similar birds.
- Pros
- The zinc-plated finish offers rust resistance.
- The overhang provides shelter to birds.
- Circular perch allows for multiple birds to feed at once.
- Cons
- Some birds struggle to balance on the perch.
- Some birds don’t like bright colors.
- The perch is designed in such a way that birds will sometimes poop on it while eating.
The circular design and bright color make this an interesting and unique bird feeder that attracts multiple different types of birds.
9. Gray Bunny GB-6860 Caged Tube Feeder, Squirrel Proof Wild Bird Feeder
This is a high-quality bird feeder that attracts a variety of different birds. It’s precisely designed to allow entry to birds, but to keep squirrels out.
- Pros
- Attracts many kinds of birds effectively
- The cage design keeps squirrels out like no other.
- Cons
- Smaller birds may struggle to use it.
- Not very durable
The unique, caged design is effective in keeping squirrels out and attracting a variety of birds at the same time.
10. Roamwild PestOff Red Squirrel Proof Cardinal Bird Feeder
This is a metal bird feeder with a solid three-pound seed capacity. It’s simple, requires no assembly, and keeps seeds fresh and dry no matter the weather.
- Pros
- Made from durable materials.
- No assembly required, no settings to adjust.
- Weather and waterproof.
- Cons
- Squirrels can’t access the seeds, but some have had squirrels chew through the plastic bottom.
- Very tall and narrow, not ideal for all settings.
Featuring a unique and innovative design, this feeder will keep seeds fresh and squirrels out.
11. Squirrel Solution 200 Squirrel-proof Bird Feeder
This bird feeder features a standard design, holds three pounds of birdseed, and comes with six feeding ports. It’s made from chew-proof materials and is designed to keep squirrels out.
- Pros
- It comes with a lifetime care warranty.
- NO tools required for set up or installation.
- It comes with a free seed funnel.
- Cons
- Some birds may struggle to balance on the perches.
- Some of the seeds may fall out.
With a simple, pleasing design, this feeder can entertain multiple birds at once and is an easy one to put together.
12. Homestead Super Stop-A-Squirrel Bird Feeder
This bird feeder features a unique but innovative design. It’s one of the larger ones on the market, holding up to 11 pounds, with the ability to either hang or be mounted.
- Pros
- Holds a large amount of birdseed, allowing more time between refills.
- Unique design makes it easy to handle and keeps the squirrels out.
- Cleaning is easy.
- Cons
- Large and not as aesthetically pleasing as other designs.
- The visibility of the birds is slightly obstructed.
- The paint peels somewhat easily.
This large bird feeder allows you to fill it and leave it for a while, effectively feeding birds and keeping the squirrels at bay.
13. Woodlink Absolute II Double Sided Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder
This bird feeder has a unique, house-style design and can hold a huge capacity of birdseed – up to 12 pounds. The body is steel-coated, making it durable, and the two sides allow for more birds to feed at once.
- Pros
- Larger capacity than most bird feeders.
- It has a seed-saver mechanism to minimize waste.
- The adjustable weight seeling means you can choose which types of birds to attract.
- Cons
- Some have seen birds getting legs stuck.
- Some birds may struggle to balance on the perch.
- It’s very heavy and may not work with all the poles.
This large, heavy-duty bird feeder looks great in your garden while keeping the squirrels away.
14. Woodlink Absolute Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder
This feeder is very similar to the one above but is only one-sided. It features a powder-coated steel body, and a locking top. It can hold up to 15 pounds of seed.
- Pros
- Large seed capacity.
- It can be hung or pole-mounted.
- It comes fully assembled.
- Cons
- It might be too heavy for some poles.
- The perch is very close to the feed shoot, which might make it difficult for some birds.
- Squirrels might stay out of the seeds, but some have ripped the perch off.
This is a large, heavy-duty bird feeder is made from durable materials and will look great in your garden.
15. Audubon “Mini” Absolute Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder
This mini squirrel-resistant bird feeder is as cute as it is durable. It’s got a fun house-style design with a double-sided feeder to attract more birds.
- Pros
- It has a locking top.
- The body is coated with durable powder-coated steel.
- It features a no-waste mechanism to save seeds.
- It comes with a heavy-duty hanger.
- Cons
- The paint fades quickly.
- Squirrels can shake the feeder to get some seeds out.
This compact bird feeder is great for a smaller garden while still allowing many birds to feed at once.
16. Droll Yankees Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder
This medium-sized bird feeder is tall, skinny, and simple. It has a five-pound seed capacity and four feeding ports. The internal baffle ensures feed is evenly distributed to all ports to satisfy multiple birds at once.
- Pros
- The metal base is powder-coated, and the tube is UV-stabilized
- It comes with a stainless steel hanging wire which reduces motion, preventing seed spill.
- Cons
- Not all birds are attracted to it.
- Some birds may struggle to balance on the perch.
- It may blow a little bit in the wind.
Featuring an innovative and unique design, this feeder is a perfect size and can feed several birds at once.
17. Myard MBF Double Sided Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder
Made from powder-coated steel and acrylic, this durable bird feeder is cute and unique. It can hold up to six pounds of birdseed and has an extendable perch.
- Pros
- The extendable perch allows you to adjust which types of birds you want to attract.
- It comes with a metal hanger.
- It’s made from durable materials that are made to last.
- Cons
- The landing perches are on the weaker side and may bend.
- Smaller birds might have a hard time eating from it.
This is a uniquely designed bird feeder that can be adjusted to allow for different types of birds to land.
18. Perky-Pet The Preserve Wild Bird Feeder
This bird feeder is on the smaller side with a three-pound seed capacity. It adds a nice, classy look to your garden with its decorative metal top.
- Pros
- The seed reservoir is made from shatter-proof plastic.
- The feeder is clear all around to monitor the seed level.
- It’s designed with a shape that lets birds in and keeps squirrels out.
- Cons
- The design makes it difficult for some birds to get in.
- Squirrels might be able to shake it to get seeds out.
The unique and innovative design on this bird feeder will allow you to enjoy the birds without worrying as much about squirrels.
19. Squirrel Buster Peanut+ Squirrel-proof Bird Feeder
This special bird feeder is designed only for holding peanuts and will attract birds that like them. The whole feeder is made from chew-proof materials and can be assembled easily.
- Pros
- It comes with a lifetime care warranty.
- No tools required.
- It’s weight adjustable, allowing you to determine which birds are attracted.
- Cons
- Very small and compact, might not be ideal for a larger garden.
- Refilling is difficult.
- The nuts will get wet in the rain and need to be replaced.
This is the perfect bird feeder for anyone who loves the kind of birds who eat peanuts, as this is the only thing it will hold.
20. Audubon Squirrel Proof Caged Tube Type Bird Feeder
This bird feeder is small, with a 1.5-pound seed capacity. It includes four ports that are all enclosed in a sturdy, durable powder-coated steel cage.
- Pros
- It keeps squirrels out.
- The design is practical and aesthetically pleasing at the same time.
- It comes in an attractive forest green color.
- Cons
- Some small squirrels might be able to fit inside.
- Some birds might struggle to balance on the perch.
Perfect for small gardens and small birds, this compact feeder looks great while keeping squirrels out.
21. Droll Yankees Classic Sunflower or Mixed Seed Bird Feeder
Among the smallest available, this feeder holds up to one pound of birdseed and includes six feeding ports. It can be hung or pole-mounted.
- Pros
- It comes with a lifetime warranty against squirrel damage.
- It is highly durable.
- It’s easy to clean.
- Cons
- Very small, which might not be ideal for everyone.
- It’s somewhat difficult to assemble.
If you’re looking for a small, compact, simple bird feeder, this one is durable and easy to manage.
22. Droll Yankees DROBTG Bird Feeder, Hanging Feeder
This bird feeder is innovative and extremely unique in design. It features a dome over the feeder, which can be adjusted in height to allow on certain types of birds inside. It can withstand the elements and be kept outside.
- Pros
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
- It is made entirely in the USA.
- Most importantly, it comes with eight ports, which is more than average.
- Cons
- Some birds get confused and not use it.
- Some birds may struggle to balance on the perch.
- Other birds can get inside the bowl and sit in the seeds.
Unique and interesting, this feeder is smart and practical while allowing you to choose which types of birds you attract.
23. Squirrel Buster Suet Squirrel-proof Suet Bird Feeder
This bird feeder features another extremely unique and innovative design. This feeder is meant to feet suet cakes, which will attract woodpeckers, wrens, jays, and others like them. The feeders are enclosed in a cage to keep squirrels out.
- Pros
- It comes with a lifetime care warranty.
- The design enables you to fill it without having to touch the greasy suet cakes.
- No tools are required.
- It features a waste-free crumb port.
- Cons
- Not suited for regular birdseed.
- Some birds may find it difficult to use.
This unique bird feeder is designed to feed suet cakes. It does so easily and conveniently that it allows you to handle it without getting greasy.
24. Urban Deco Set of 3 Bird Feeder
This set of small, cute, colorful bird feeders is a beautiful addition to your garden. They are perfect for small birds and require no assembly, just fill and hang. Birds can cling to the feeder from anywhere and feed that way.
- Pros
- The set is unique, colorful, and fun.
- It’s easy for small birds to feed.
- No assembly or setup required.
- Cons
- No great for larger birds.
- Some smaller seeds might fall through.
While this feeder is not ideal for all kinds of birds, they are fun and interesting and will add a pop of color to your garden.
Final Thoughts: Which Product Is The Best?
All of these bird feeders have their own set of advantages and special features. Some are better at keeping squirrels out than others, but all are designed to do this.
Also, some are large, and others are quite small, so your choice will largely depend on the size you want.
Of all the above choices, the Stokes Select Giant Combo Bird Feeder is the best all-around option.
It holds a solid ten pounds of birdseed and allows for multiple birds to feed in several different positions.
It’s made from durable materials and features an easy filling system. Lastly, it’s aesthetically pleasing and looks great in the garden.
