Best Bird Feeders for Different Types of Birds: How to Attract Your Favorite Species

Birdwatching in your yard can be a relaxing way to watch bird behavior and with the right feeder you can attract more of the type of bird you would like to see.  Setting up bird feeders in your yard is one of the best ways to bring birds closer to your home.  Different types of birds have varying feeding preferences and behaviors, and the right feeder can make a difference on your bird visitors. 

In this guide, we'll explore the best bird feeders for different types of birds, helping you create the perfect birdwatching setup right at home.

1. Tube Feeders for Finches and Chickadees

Tube feeders are among the most popular and versatile bird feeders. These feeders consist of a long, tube-like structure with multiple feeding ports, making them ideal for small birds like finches, chickadees, and sparrows. The design allows multiple birds to feed at once without too much competition.

What to Use: Fill tube feeders with black oil sunflower seeds, for finches and chickadees or nyjer (thistle) seed for finches. Larger seed eating birds also enjoy sunflowers. 

Recommended Feeder: Look for tube feeders with small perches, which are ideal for tiny birds. (which keeps the larger birds away) A metal mesh design is also good, as it’s durable and discourages larger birds from dominating the feeder.

Pro Tip: Place the tube feeder near trees or shrubs to make the birds feel secure, birds are wary of location and want to feel secure.   For the first several days be diligent and ensure hunters are not preying on the birdfeeder.  If you have a pest and need help coming up with ideas to keep the birds safe.  Please reach out to me at thia@swooply.co.

2. Hopper Feeders for Cardinals and Grosbeaks

Hopper feeders are perfect for medium to large birds such as cardinals, grosbeaks, and blue jays. These feeders have a storage bin that releases seed into a tray at the bottom as birds eat, allowing for more substantial feeding.

What to Use: Cardinals and grosbeaks enjoy black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and mixed seeds. These larger seeds are easy for them to eat, and the tray design accommodates their feeding style.

Recommended Feeder: A sturdy hopper feeder made from wood or metal will withstand visits from heavier birds. Ensure that the feeder is easy to clean, as larger feeders can accumulate old, uneaten seeds that may spoil.

Pro Tip: Mount your hopper feeder on a post or hang it from a strong branch at least 5-6 feet off the ground to avoid interference from squirrels and other ground animals.

3. Suet Feeders for Woodpeckers and Nuthatches

If you want to attract woodpeckers, nuthatches, and wrens, a suet feeder is the way to go. Suet is a high-energy food made from fat, making it especially appealing to these insect-eating birds, particularly during the colder months when insects are scarce.

What to Use: Purchase commercial suet cakes, which often contain seeds, berries, or insects for added nutrition. You can also make your own suet by melting down animal fat and mixing in seeds.

Recommended Feeder: Look for a suet feeder with a wire mesh cage. This feeder will securely hold the suet while allowing birds to cling to the sides and peck at it. Some suet feeders have a tail prop, which woodpeckers find helpful for balance while feeding.

Pro Tip: Hang your suet feeder in shaded areas to prevent the suet from melting.

4. Nectar Feeders for Hummingbirds

Nectar feeders are designed specifically for hummingbirds, which feed on sugary nectar. These feeders typically consist of a reservoir that holds nectar and small feeding ports where hummingbirds can hover and drink.

What to Use: The best food for hummingbirds is a homemade nectar made by mixing 1 part white sugar with 4 parts water. Never use honey or artificial sweeteners, as these can harm the birds.

Recommended Feeder: Opt for a red-colored nectar feeder, as hummingbirds are naturally attracted to red. Make sure the feeder has small feeding ports to discourage bees and wasps from accessing the nectar.

Pro Tip: Change the nectar every few days, especially in hot weather, to prevent it from fermenting or growing mold. Clean the feeder regularly to maintain a safe feeding environment.

5. Ground Feeders for Doves and Sparrows

Some birds, such as doves, sparrows, and juncos, prefer to feed on the ground. For these birds, a ground feeder or tray feeder is ideal. These feeders are simple trays that sit close to or directly on the ground, allowing ground-feeding birds to easily access the food.

What to Use: Fill your ground feeder with a mix of millet, cracked corn, and black oil sunflower seeds, which ground feeders love.

Recommended Feeder: A mesh-bottomed tray feeder will allow rainwater to drain, preventing the seeds from getting soggy and moldy.

Pro Tip: Place ground feeders in open areas away from dense vegetation, as this minimizes the risk of predators hiding nearby. However, if you live in an area with many squirrels or other pests, consider using a ground feeder with a wire cage around it to keep unwanted visitors out.

6. Platform Feeders for a Variety of Birds

Platform feeders are highly versatile and attract a wide variety of birds, from cardinals to jays, doves, and wrens. These open, flat feeders allow birds to perch and feed in a more natural way.

What to Use: Use mixed birdseed to appeal to a wide range of species, or fill it with larger seeds like sunflower or peanuts for specific birds.

Recommended Feeder: A platform feeder can be mounted on a pole or hung from a tree. Choose one with a roof to keep the seed dry during rainy weather.

Pro Tip: Keep your platform feeder clean, as they can accumulate debris quickly. Regular cleaning will ensure the birds have a safe place to feed.  In addition, this type of feeder along with the ground feeder will attract other visitors. 

Conclusion

When selecting the best bird feeders for different types of birds, it’s important to consider the size, feeding habits, and preferences of the species you want to attract. Whether you’re hoping to see bright cardinals, energetic woodpeckers, or tiny hummingbirds in your yard, there’s a bird feeder suited for every type of bird.

By offering a variety of feeders filled with the appropriate food, you can create a bird-friendly environment that will have our feathered friends flocking to your garden all year long.

 

Suggested Information Links:

• Learn more about attracting birds to your yard: Audubon Society
• https://www.audubon.org/news/5-best-bird-feeders-winter
• https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/how-to-choose-the-right-kind-of-bird-feeder/