Backyard birdwatching is one of the greatest and simplest joys. Getting to know the feathered friends that live in or pass through your area is a rewarding way to deepen your relationship with your local ecosystem.

Simply getting a bird feeder (or a few!), placing it in a strategic spot, and keeping it filled with the right kind of birdseed is an easy and affordable way to casually birdwatch at home. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or are new to the birding game, we’ve rounded up the best bird feeders to catch some views of the birds in your neighborhood.

The Best Bird Feeders

What to Consider

If you’re looking to buy a bird feeder, it helps to have some basic familiarity with the types of backyard birds that frequent your area. That way, you can get a model that is an appropriate size and holds the specific type of birdseed that’s right for them. You’ll want to make sure that you look for models that have adequate drainage, as moisture accumulating in the bird feeder can lead to mold.

The best types of bird feeders hold an ample amount of seed, offer multiple perches for birds to land on, and ideally have some sort of anti-squirrel mechanism. Although squirrels and chipmunks will usually find a way to swipe some seed, getting a squirrel-proof bird feeder or attaching a baffle to your feeder pole can help.

Finally, make sure to be responsible in the placement of your feeder and the type of seed that you are choosing to put in it so that you’re helping your feathered friends, not leading them toward harm. Ideally, bird feeders should also be placed away from windows to prevent collisions.

The hanging bird feeders in this guide provide a place for different types of common backyard birds to perch and peck to their hearts’ content. Read on to learn more about our picks.