Birding is one of life’s great joys. Birds are beautiful and fun to watch, but you must keep your distance so as not to scare them. Smart bird feeders—that is, bird feeders with a connected camera and app—give you a close-up look at the birds in your backyard through captured images and live views next in real time (as long as your Wi-Fi is reached). They are becoming increasingly popular and there are plenty of options available from reputable brands as well as Amazon knockoffs. These are the best bird feeder cameras we’ve tried.
In theory, applications using AI can identify bird species. In our testing, none had a completely certain identification. However, each has its advantages that may appeal to you. You can use it Google Lens Or, if you have an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, download the photo to your camera roll and Click the info button. It does a solid job at identifying birds. Even if it’s a work in progress, I wouldn’t want to be without a bird feeder camera once I’ve experienced it.
Bird watching is quite accessible as a hobby. You don’t need to join a group either Actually Buy anything, but if you’re interested, we have a guide on Best binoculars And Best bird farming equipmentwith recommendations for our favorite apps, books, and accessories.
Updated December 2024: We’ve added Netvue Birdfy’s Feeder 2 Duo and Hum Feeder Duo, and updated links and pricing throughout.
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How we test bird feeders
Former WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano tested several balcony feeders in Texas and one in a backyard in Pennsylvania. In Texas, she placed both on a table as well as secured them to the railing with the included mounting straps. In Pennsylvania, she used a bracket to attach to the pole. WIRED reviewer Kat Merck tested the feeder in a rural-suburban neighborhood in Southwest Washington. The feeders are mounted directly on the house using the included brackets or hung from shepherd hooks mounted on the house wall.
Once set up, we both fill them with bird seed (or a nectar mixture of 4:1 sugar and water) and wait patiently for the local birds to find them. We tested all of the app’s included features, looked at how often we received notifications, and noted whether they only accurately picked up birds or any kind of outdoor movement, as well as the ability to especially their birds. We disassemble and clean them, then return them to the rack. We test each one for a minimum of two weeks, but often more than a month.
The best-looking feeders (and a plastic alternative)
Birdfy, from security company Netvue, has two feeds we recommend. This bamboo plant looks the best but requires a little maintenance. It doesn’t have plastic parts like the rest of the feeders on this list, and with its black and natural wood color, it looks like it belongs in nature. An expandable perch allows multiple birds to gather and investigate, and it has two large bins for different or the same seeds. However, the bins mix in the tray at the bottom. the FeatherSnap feeder below Use separate bins and trays if you prefer that.
Like the other feeders on this list, it can be mounted on a pole or tree or hung on a hook. It also comes with a solar panel that you can attach, so you never have to think about charging the camera battery.
No matter how beautiful a bamboo trough is, it also needs maintenance. Birdfy notes that the feeder has an IP65 waterproof rating and is resistant to mold and rot. However, in the instructions for use it says that it needs to be sealed. Through RedditBirdfy recommends sealing using Wood glue is safe for birds. I can’t comment directly on its durability, as when I tested this feeder I used it on a table on my covered balcony.
Although plastic is not as beautiful as wood, it is more durable and easier to clean. Birdfy’s plastic house is another great option to consider, and it’s often on sale. Not all plans include a solar panel, but you can buy separately.
