The best bird feeders are year round feeders that are easy to clean, don't need much work and have easy access for birds while keeping other critters at bay.
The ideal bird feeder is sturdy enough to withstand winter weather, tight enough to keep seeds dry, large enough so you do not have to refill it constantly, and easy to assemble and clean. Plastic or metal feeders are generally easier to keep clean than wooden feeders but wooden feeders are natural and look good.
In general, seed-feeders fall into three categories: tray feeders, hopper feeders, and tube feeders. Additional specialty feeders include suet, hummingbird, and peanut feeders.
I recommend a caged feeder - it's the best feeder for keeping out other critters - having deterrents for squirrels but easy access for our little beaked friends. There are many brands that are of equal quality.
The other type of feeder I recommend is an all weather feeder. This will have a dome or cap above the feeder to keep it dry. Songbird Essentials puts out the most popular ones we sell. Look for all weather feeders here.
A suet feeder is another great option for fall and winter and is easy to deal with. Just suet or suet mixes can be placed in an onion style bag too, tied to trees or smeared into knotholes. Cages that are only open at the bottom tend to be starling-resistent but allow woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees to feed by clinging upside down.
The most common mistake made in feeding, is using the wrong type of seed for the feeder chosen. Be sure to ask about what kind of feed to use when making your purchase. You should also know the type of birds you are trying to feed because that will affect your choice of feed and feeder.
Good luck!
