Weight-activated squirrel-proof feeder: which birds use it
A spring-loaded shroud drops over the ports under a squirrel's weight. The most reliable squirrel-proof design at a hanging feeder.
Is a weight-activated squirrel-proof feeder right for your yard?
| Holds | Sunflower, safflower, hearts |
|---|---|
| Best for | Cardinals, Chickadees, Titmice, House Finches, Nuthatches |
| Not for | Anyone wanting to feed jays and doves, which are heavy enough to close some models |
| Squirrels | Excellent |
| Cleaning | Moderate |
| Budget range tracked | under $25 to under $250 |
Weight-activated squirrel-proof feeders from budget to premium
Budget ranges are a guide; the button shows the current price on Amazon.
What other feeders pair well with it?
- Tube feeder: The workhorse for small clinging birds. Metal ports resist squirrel chewing.
- Hopper feeder: A house-shaped reservoir with a wide ledge. The best all-round feeder for cardinals.
- Platform or tray feeder: Draws the widest range of species, including ground feeders. Needs a mesh floor for drainage and daily cleanup.
- Caged tube feeder: A wire cage keeps squirrels and large birds (grackles, starlings, pigeons) out.
Ranked picks: Best squirrel-proof bird feeder.
Other feeder types
Tube feeder · Hopper feeder · Platform or tray feeder · Ground tray · Caged tube feeder · Nyjer (finch) tube · Nyjer sock · Suet cage · Tail-prop suet feeder · Peanut mesh feeder · Peanut wreath · Window feeder · Hummingbird feeder · Oriole feeder · Mealworm feeder · Smart camera feeder
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What birds use a weight-activated squirrel-proof feeder?
cardinals, chickadees, titmice, house finches and nuthatches use it most. A spring-loaded shroud drops over the ports under a squirrel's weight. The most reliable squirrel-proof design at a hanging feeder. It is not a good fit for anyone wanting to feed jays and doves, which are heavy enough to close some models.
What do you put in a weight-activated squirrel-proof feeder?
Sunflower, safflower, hearts. Use one food per feeder so birds are not tossing unwanted seed on the ground to reach what they want.
Is a weight-activated squirrel-proof feeder squirrel-proof?
Excellent. The only complete protection for any feeder is a smooth pole with a baffle whose bottom edge sits 4 to 5 feet up, placed at least 10 feet from trees, fences, decks and roofs.
How do you clean a weight-activated squirrel-proof feeder?
Moderate. Every two weeks, or weekly in wet weather, empty it, scrub with hot soapy water, soak in a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water for ten minutes, rinse well and let it dry completely before refilling.
How much does a good weight-activated squirrel-proof feeder cost?
Listings we track run from under $25 to under $250. The cheapest models work, but mid-priced ones usually add metal ports, sturdier hangers and easier cleaning, which is what decides whether a feeder lasts one season or ten.
