Field notes for backyard birders
Backyard Bird Feeder, Seed and Birdhouse Buying Guides
Plain-English buying guides for bird feeders, squirrel baffles, seed, bird baths and birdhouses. We compare real models side by side using manufacturer specs from product listings.
Browse the best bird feeders How we research
- Independent and reader-supported
- Specs from listings, clearly labelled
- No tested-it-ourselves claims
Browse by topic
Six ways into the hobby
Bird Feeders
All kinds of bird feeders, from hummingbird and suet feeders to window and smart feeders.
13 guidesSquirrel-Proofing & Poles
Baffles, poles, hangers and squirrel-proof feeders that keep seed for the birds.
3 guidesHouses & Nesting
Birdhouses, nest boxes and nest cams for bluebirds, wrens, martins and more.
3 guidesSeed, Suet & Nectar
What to feed which birds: seed, suet, mealworms and hummingbird nectar.
2 guidesBirding Gear & Gifts
Binoculars, cameras, field guides and gifts for bird lovers.
1 guidesBaths & Water
Bird baths, heaters and fountains that bring birds to your yard.
3 guidesStart here
Find help for your situation
Go straight to the guides that match what you want for your yard.
Squirrels keep emptying my feeder
Baffles, poles and squirrel-proof feeders compared.
Explore the guides →HummingbirdsI want to attract hummingbirds
Hummingbird and oriole feeders, side by side.
Explore the guides →Small spaceI only have a window or balcony
Window and small-space feeders that fit.
Explore the guides →WinterKeeping birds fed and watered in winter
Suet feeders and heated bird bath options.
Explore the guides →Nest boxesI want birds to nest in my yard
Bluebird, wren and purple martin houses.
Explore the guides →Smart feedersI want to watch birds on my phone
Smart feeders with built-in cameras.
Explore the guides →Researched and compared
Our top reviews: feeders
One standout in each situation, chosen from manufacturer specs and product listings.
Latest guides
Comparisons and how-tos
Plain-English answers to the questions bird lovers ask before they buy.
Best Bird Bath Heater for Winter: 6 Picks Compared (2026)
Best bird bath heater picks for cold months, compared on wattage, thermostat control, build from Amazon listings checked November 2026.
Best Bird Feeders for Backyard Birds: 6 Picks Compared (2026)
Best bird feeders compared on seed capacity, rain protection, chew resistance, solar options from Amazon listings checked November 2026.
Best Bird House for Wrens: 7 Nest Boxes Compared (2026)
Best bird house for wrens options compared on entrance hole size, wood and build, cleaning access from Amazon listings checked November 2026.
Best Thistle Feeder for Finches: 5 Tube Feeders Compared (2026)
Best thistle feeder for finches picks compared on mesh or tube design, nyjer capacity, metal build from Amazon listings checked November 2026.
Best Window and Small-Space Feeders: 6 Picks Compared (2026)
Best window and small-space feeders compared on mounting type, seed capacity, cleaning access, warranty from Amazon listings checked November 2026.
Best Binoculars and Scopes for Birding (2026): Six Picks Compared
Best binoculars and scopes for birding, compared on magnification, lens size, weight, with the listing specs for six optics.
Our method
How we choose
We compare manufacturer specifications from product listings. We do not claim to have tested products ourselves. Every guide shows when it was last updated, and we mark which numbers come from a listing.
Read our editorial policy