Feeders generally fall into one of three categories (1) hopper, (2)platform and (3) tube. Each of these feeders is designed to hold different types of food and attract different types of birds.
Feeders generally fall into one of three categories (1) hopper, (2)platform and (3) tube. Each of these feeders is designed to hold different types of food and attract different types of birds.
A hopper feeder has four walls and a top to protect food from the elements. Larger hopper
feeders hold a greater amount of seed and, therefore, require less refilling. They attract
birds such as Blue Jays, Nuthatches and Woodpeckers and other feeder-birds. Hopper feeders can be hung or mounted on a free-standing pole.
This feeder works well with:
A platform or tray feeder is a flat feeder in which food can be spread across an open
surface. Platform feeders may have a roof to help keep food dry. Look for one that has drain
holes to keep rainwater from accumulating. This is the easiest feeder to fill and attracts
Cardinals, Black-Capped Chickadees and Tufted Titmice. If placed close to the ground it will also attract ground-feeding birds. Platform feeders can be hung or mounted.
This feeder works well with:
A tube feeder is cylindrical feeder featuring several ports with perches. The size of the
ports and the perches determines the type of food and the birds that will visit. Also known as
a silo feeder, the tube feeder attracts birds such as Goldfinches, House Finches and Purple
Finches. To attract a greater variety of birds, choose a larger perch tube feeder. Tube feeders are always hung.
This feeder works well with:
For more information on birding, refer to our links below.
Where to Locate Feeders
Learn more about how to Create a Backyard Habitat for Birds
Back to Scotts® Wild Bird Food homepage
