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Best Suet Feeder Guide: Top Picks, Benefits, and How to Attract Birds (2024)

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best suet feederChoosing the best suet feeder makes all the difference in attracting a variety of birds and minimizing pest problems.

The Ez Fill Suet Basket Bird Feeder and the Double Suet Cage Bird Feeder are top contenders for their practicality and ease of use.

For those seeking effective pest control, the Nature’s Way Upside Down Cedar Suet Feeder shines, keeping starlings and grackles at bay while attracting birds like woodpeckers and nuthatches.

Additionally, the Kettle Moraine Window Mount Suet Cake Feeder offers close-up bird-watching opportunities.

These feeders are durable, made from recycled materials, and protect suet from the elements.

Discover which feeder suits your needs best!

Key Takeaways

  • Choose an upside-down suet feeder to deter bully birds like starlings and grackles, giving smaller birds a chance to dine. It’s like giving the little guy a fighting chance in a schoolyard brawl!
  • Position your suet feeder strategically to make it easy for birds to find and access. Think of it as setting up a VIP section for your feathered friends!
  • Keep your suet feeder stocked during the colder months when birds need the extra energy to stay warm and cozy. It’s like providing a warm, hearty meal on a chilly winter day.
  • Clean your suet feeder regularly to prevent mold and bacteria from building up. It’s like giving your bird feeder a spa day to keep it fresh and inviting for your feathered guests.

Top 9 Best Suet Feeders

You’re in the market for a superior suet feeder to attract a variety of feathered friends to your backyard. Offering a mix of food options like black oil sunflower seeds and peanuts, in addition to suet, can be an effective way to draw in various bird species, as discussed in bird attracting and feeding techniques. From the Ez Fill Suet Basket Bird Feeder to the Woodlink 3 in 1 Platform Bird Feeder, there are numerous high-quality options available that cater to different bird species’ preferences and feeding habits.

1. Ez Fill Suet Basket Bird Feeder

C&S Ez Fill Suet BasketView On Chewy
Introducing the Ez Fill Suet Basket Bird Feeder, an exceptional choice for attracting feathered friends. This green wire basket features a vinyl coating to prevent bird feet from freezing or burning, and holds a generous 5.6" x 4.8" suet cake. With its 10 feeding perches and easy refill design, you’ll provide a welcoming spot for suet-loving birds to dine in comfort and style.

Best For: Bird enthusiasts seeking to provide a safe and convenient suet-feeding experience for their feathered friends.

Pros
  • Vinyl coating prevents bird feet from freezing or burning
  • 10 feeding perches accommodate multiple birds
  • Easy refill design for hassle-free maintenance
Cons
  • May require frequent refilling depending on bird activity
  • Suet cake not included
  • Not suitable for large suet cakes

2. Double Suet Cage Bird Feeder

More Birds Double Suet CageView On Amazon
The Double Suet Cage Bird Feeder is a sturdy feeder designed for clinging birds.

Its solid steel construction and weather-resistant finish guarantee long-lasting durability.

The easy-open, double-locking closure system allows for hassle-free suet cake replacements.

With two suet cake holders, this feeder can also accommodate small seed cakes, nesting materials, and even oranges, making it a versatile choice for your backyard birds.

Best For: Clinging birds looking for a sturdy and versatile suet feeder.

Pros
  • Durable solid steel construction
  • Easy-open, double-locking closure system
  • Can hold two suet cakes, small seed cakes, nesting materials, or oranges
Cons
  • May not be suitable for larger birds
  • Requires regular cleaning to prevent mold growth
  • May be difficult to fill if the lid is not opened carefully

3. Nature’s Way Upside Down Cedar Suet Feeder

Nature's Way Bird Products CWF2View On Amazon
The Nature’s Way Upside Down Cedar Suet Feeder is a woodpecker’s dream come true!

Its upside-down design eliminates nuisance birds like grackles and starlings, giving clinging feeders like woodpeckers, titmice, and nuthatches exclusive access to the suet feast.

Crafted from premium cedar wood and rust-proof hardware, this durable feeder is a cinch to fill—simply lift the lid to drop in a suet cake.

Position it strategically, and you’ll enjoy an acrobatic bird show right outside your window!

Best For: Clinging birds like woodpeckers, titmice, chickadees, and nuthatches.

Pros
  • Woodpecker Friendly Design
  • Durable Materials
  • Nuisance Bird Deterrent
Cons
  • May require some assembly.
  • Lid may crack after extended use.
  • Birds may take some time to adjust to the upside-down design

4. Birds Choice Pileated Suet Feeder

Birds Choice SNPS Recycled DoubleView On Amazon
With a "tail prop" for larger woodpeckers, the Birds Choice Pileated Suet Feeder holds two hefty suet cakes.

Crafted from recycled poly-lumber, its taupe and green hues complement nature.

Rust-resistant hinges and stainless screws guarantee durability.

Though pricey, this feeder’s smart design attracts pileated, downy, and other woodpeckers with ease.

Just be warned – squirrels may attempt chewing the hanging cable.

Best For: Birdwatchers who want to attract pileated woodpeckers and other large birds.

Pros
  • Made in the USA from durable recycled poly-lumber
  • Holds up to 2 suet cakes with ease
  • Rust-resistant hinges and stainless steel screws ensure longevity
Cons
  • A bit pricey
  • The "tail prop" can make it difficult for birds to cling to
  • Squirrels may attempt to chew the hanging cable

5. Kettle Moraine Window Mount Suet Cake Feeder

Window Mount Single Suet CakeView On Amazon
The Kettle Moraine Window Mount Suet Cake Feeder brings the joy of birdwatching right to your window.

Its sturdy construction from recycled milk jugs and vinyl-coated wire mesh holds one standard suet cake securely.

With two powerful suction cups, you can effortlessly mount it to any window for an up-close view of woodpeckers and other clinging birds.

Made in the USA, this feeder offers a convenient way to attract feathered visitors while reducing waste.

Best For: Bird enthusiasts who want to enjoy birdwatching from the comfort of their home

Pros
  • Strong construction made from recycled materials
  • Vinyl-coated wire mesh for durability
  • Two powerful suction cups for secure window mounting
Cons
  • Some users have reported issues with suction cups not holding properly
  • Does not include suet cake
  • May not be suitable for all window types

Woodlink NASUET1 Single Suet CageView On Amazon
The Woodlink Single Suet Cage Feeder is a reliable classic.

Its powder-coated steel construction guarantees durability.

Its wide looped handle ensures easy hanging.

The large capacity accommodates one standard suet cake, providing ample sustenance for your feathered friends.

Though squirrel-resistant, this feeder keeps the buffet open for woodpeckers and other clinging birds with its open design.

Simple yet effective, it’s a trusty addition to any backyard aviary.

Best For: Woodpeckers and other suet-loving birds looking for a durable, weather-resistant feeder.

Pros
  • Powder-coated steel construction for durability
  • Wide looped handle for easy hanging
  • Large capacity accommodates one standard suet cake
Cons
  • Difficult to open
  • Arrived crushed
  • Lantern-style handle makes hanging difficult

7. Suet Cake for Wild Birds

Suet CakeView On Amazon
You want a suet cake that birds find irresistible.

Our 12-pack of 12 oz Peanut Butter Suet Cakes hits the spot!

The rendered beef suet, chopped peanuts, and peanut butter blend attracts a variety of feathered friends.

Simply hang a cake in your suet feeder at least 5 feet off the ground, and watch the avian action unfold.

With its solid, fresh texture, this US-made product won’t disappoint your backyard buddies.

Best For: Bird enthusiasts seeking an irresistible suet cake to attract a variety of birds.

Pros
  • Attracts a variety of birds with its peanut butter flavor
  • Solid, fresh texture that molds easily
  • Made in the United States
Cons
  • Not specified
  • Not specified
  • Not specified

8. Droll Yankees Peanut Feeder

Droll Yankees New Generation PeanutView On Amazon
The Droll Yankees Peanut Feeder offers a unique clinging experience for your feathered friends.

Its stainless steel mesh tube holds up to a pound of shelled peanuts or sunflower seeds. The open design allows birds to cling and feed while you enjoy the show.

Constructed with durable zinc die-cast tops and bases, this made-in-the-USA feeder is built to withstand harsh weather conditions.

Easily refill by sliding the metal cap up the hanger—birdwatching just got more convenient!

Best For: Bird enthusiasts who want to provide a clinging feeding experience for multiple birds in cold, dry climates.

Pros
  • Durable construction with zinc die-cast tops and bases
  • Easy to fill with sliding metal cap
  • Open mesh design allows birds and humans to see feed level
Cons
  • Not suitable for wet or humid climates
  • Can be difficult to clean
  • May attract squirrels and other pests

Woodlink 3 in 1 PlatformView On Amazon
You’ll love the Woodlink 3 in 1 Platform Feeder – it’s a versatile beauty!

This cedar wood feeder can be hung, pole-mounted, or placed on the ground. The powder-coated metal screen bottom allows drainage, while the removable slide-out tray makes cleaning a breeze.

Attract a variety of birds with its spacious seed tray that holds up to 3 lbs of mixed seed.

Quality craftsmanship and durable materials guarantee this feeder will be a treasured backyard addition.

Best For: Bird lovers who want a versatile and durable feeder for their backyard.

Pros
  • Durable materials and construction ensure longevity
  • Easy to clean with slide-out tray
  • Versatile design allows for multiple mounting options
Cons
  • May need to be coated with a water-repellant substance to extend lifespan
  • Expensive compared to other feeders
  • Removable tray may be difficult to remove

The Benefits of Upside-Down Suet Feeders

The Benefits of Upside-Down Suet Feeders
Using upside-down suet feeders can effectively keep starlings and grackles from consuming suet, reducing the number of annoying birds and allowing other species a chance to eat. These feeders are often made of recycled materials, making them sturdy, durable, and environmentally friendly.

Keeps Starlings and Grackles From Eating Suet

Upside-down suet feeders provide starling deterrence and grackle deterrence by allowing preferred birds access while limiting annoyances. The suet protection and bird safety design prevents starlings from simply perching and gorging on your costly suet. These squirrel-resistant, birds choice suet feeders use gravity for selective bird preference, granting woodpeckers effortless dining.

Reduces the Number of Annoying Birds

With upside-down suet feeders, you’ll say goodbye to those pesky starlings and grackles monopolizing your regular caged suet feeder. These clever designs make it nearly impossible for less agile birds to access the suet, reducing the annoying squawking and flapping that deters your favorite backyard birders. Embrace peaceful bird-watching bliss!

Gives Other Birds a Chance to Eat

Upside-down suet feeders give less agile birds a fighting chance at precious suet blocks. Unlike traditional square cage feeders that bully birds monopolize, these feeders’ unique design shields the suet below. Smaller clinging birds like chickadees and nuthatches can safely access the suet without competition from larger, more aggressive species like starlings or grackles.

Made of Recycled Materials

Upside-down suet feeders excel with their eco-friendly construction from recycled materials. You get durability and cost-effectiveness while reducing environmental impact. Birds enjoy snacking safely as these sturdy, recycled plastic suet feeders withstand squirrels’ mischief, ensuring suet lasts longer – perfect for winter feeding. Truly one of the best suet feeders around!

Sturdy and Durable

You want a feeder that withstands the elements and curious critters.

Upside-down suet feeders are built sturdy, often using recycled plastics that undergo durability testing.

Their weather-resistant design keeps suet dry while the cage protects it from beaks and claws.

Whether a woodpecker feeder, cage suet feeder, or seed and suet block cage, these feeders prioritize bird safety through secure, long-lasting construction.

Placing Your Suet Feeder

Placing Your Suet Feeder
When placing your suet feeder, position it above a regular cage suet feeder so birds can easily see the suet from below. Once the birds discover the upside-down feeder, you can move it to your desired location for ideal accessibility and viewing.

Place Above a Regular Cage Suet Feeder

Strategically place your upside-down suet feeder above a regular cage feeder. This placement strategy allows:

  • Target birds to become accustomed to the location
  • Easy conversion once they find the upside-down feeder
  • Visibility from below, attracting curious species
  • Control over which birds access the suet
  • Mastery of your backyard bird haven

Follow the visibility cues – birds will soon flock to the upside-down feeder.

Birds Can See the Suet From Below

By positioning the upside-down suet feeder above a regular cage feeder, you’ll attract acrobatic birds like woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees. They can cling to the underside and enjoy the suet from a unique viewing angle. This setup protects the suet while allowing easy access for these feathered aerialists.

Benefit Description
Acrobatic Birds Attracts woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees
Unique View Birds feed from underside angle
Suet Protection Keeps suet dry and secure

Move to Desired Location After Birds Find It

Once the birds discover your upside-down suet feeder, you can move it to your desired viewing location. This allows you to:

  • Place it near favorite perching spots the birds prefer
  • Situate it away from areas where squirrels frequent
  • Hang it at a convenient height for easy refilling and maintenance

Just be patient as the birds learn the new location.

Position for Easy Bird Access

When placing a suet feeder in your yard, consider creating a bird-friendly environment with a variety of feeders and homemade bird food recipes. You’ll want to position your suet feeder for easy bird access. Hang it at eye level, about 5-6 feet off the ground, near some cover like bushes or trees. Make sure there are no obstructions and that birds have a clear flight path.

Tip Benefit
Near Cover Protects Birds
Eye Level Easy Viewing
Clear Flight Path Safe Access
Sturdy Branch/Hook Prevents Swinging
Visible Location Attracts Birds Quickly

Birds Attracted to Upside-Down Suet Feeders

Birds Attracted to Upside-Down Suet Feeders
Upside-down suet feeders provide an ideal feeding opportunity for red-bellied woodpeckers, downy woodpeckers, white-breasted nuthatches, tufted titmouses, and Carolina wrens. These bird species are particularly attracted to these feeders because of their ability to cling upside-down, which allows them to access the suet while discouraging larger, more aggressive birds from dominating the feeder.

Red-Bellied Woodpeckers

You’ll delight in attracting red-bellied woodpeckers with upside-down suet feeders like Nature’s Way Cedar or suet cakes combined with platforms like Woodlink’s 3-in-1. Their striking black-and-white patterns and brilliant red caps make them eye-catching visitors. Watching their acrobatics as they cling upside-down to feast on high-energy suet or peanuts from Droll Yankees is simply entertaining!

Downy Woodpeckers

You’ll often spot the downy woodpecker, smallest of North American woodpeckers, clinging upside-down on your suet feeder. This acrobatic bird loves suet’s high-fat content, ideally placed near trees and shrubs reflecting its forest habitat. Monitor their numbers—they’re indicators of sustainable woodlot management. Their antics bring unbridled joy, reminding us to protect nature’s treasures.

White-Breasted Nuthatches

If you want to attract White-Breasted Nuthatches, upside-down suet feeders are ideal! Their unique feeding habits make them masters of this style:

  • Adept at clinging to vertical surfaces
  • Prefer suet cakes around 1-inch thick
  • Upside-down perches mimic their natural tree trunk foraging

With an upside-down feeder, you’ll satisfy these acrobatic birds’ cravings for high-energy suet, aiding their winter survival.

Tufted Titmouses

Tufted titmouses also find upside-down suet feeders enticing. These small, acrobatic birds with their distinct crests love clinging upside-down to access the high-fat suet cakes. You’ll often see them hanging upside-down, using their stout beaks to chisel away at the rich treat.

Tufted Titmouse Description
Size 5.5-6.3 inches
Appearance Gray crest, white face, rust flanks
Diet Insects, seeds, suet
Habitat Woodlands, parks, gardens

Carolina Wrens

You’ll also attract Carolina wrens to upside-down suet feeders. These energetic birds relish suet year-round, especially in winter when insects are scarce. Watch them acrobatically cling upside-down, probing the suet with their slender beaks. Their distinct "tea-kettle" calls add delightful ambiance to your backyard. Offer high-energy suets rich in rendered fats to fuel their lively behavior.

Advantages of Upside-Down Suet Feeders

Advantages of Upside-Down Suet Feeders
Upside-down suet feeders provide an easy and convenient way to offer suet to clinging birds like woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees. Their sturdy construction, featuring a tail prop and durable materials like recycled plastic, accommodates larger birds and deters squirrels from accessing the suet while protecting it from rain and snow.

Easy to Fill

You’ll appreciate how easy upside-down suet feeders are to fill. Their durable construction and weather resistance mean less frequent cleaning. While budget-friendly, they offer squirrel-proofing through weight and clever design, giving clinging birds easy access to suet without the hassle of unwanted visitors. Filling is a breeze – just load and hang.

Resistant to Starlings

Upside-down suet feeders aren’t only easy to fill, but they’re also resistant to starlings. With their unique design, these feeders:

  1. Make it difficult for starlings to access the suet
  2. Prevent starlings from monopolizing the feeder
  3. Discourage starlings from frequent visits
  4. Allow other birds to feed undisturbed

More Attractive Than Traditional Cage Suet Feeders

Upside-down suet feeders offer an appealing design compared to traditional cage suet feeders, integrating recycled materials for durability and visual appeal. Birds such as woodpeckers and nuthatches, which prefer clinging upside down, find these feeders more accessible. Additionally, they enhance winter birdwatching by attracting a variety of species, contributing to a more engaging and diverse feeder experience .

Heavier, Making It Difficult for Squirrels to Move

Continuing from the attractiveness of upside-down suet feeders, their weight makes it challenging for squirrels to move them. The sturdy design adds squirrel deterrence by leveraging gravity-based feeding. Here are key benefits:

  1. Requires significant effort for squirrels to access.
  2. Ensures stability against squirrel meddling.
  3. Maintains bird access undisturbed.
  4. Minimizes loss of suet due to squirrel interference.

Protects Suet From Rain and Snow

Upside-down suet feeders are your best bet for protecting suet from rain and snow. Their design naturally shields food, maintaining its freshness and inviting properties, key for birdwatching. When considering suet feeder options, you’ll find that woodpecker preferences are met, while squirrel deterrents feature prominently, ensuring the best weather resistance and birdwatching benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best suet for bird feeders?

The Squirrel Resistant Suet Palace and Upside Down Suet Feeder are top choices. Both are durable, attract woodpeckers and nuthatches, and deter bully birds like starlings and squirrels, enhancing your bird-watching experience (Source).

Do birds like upside down suet feeders?

Imagine a scene where only the nimblest acrobats can feast. Birds like Downy Woodpeckers and Chickadees appreciate upside-down suet feeders, as they deter less agile species and provide an unobstructed dining experience .

Where is the best place to put a suet feeder?

Hang your suet feeder in a quiet, shaded location, at least 10 feet away from ground predators and 5-7 feet high. Make sure it’s visible to birds but sheltered from harsh weather conditions .

Are suet feeders good?

In brief, suet feeders are highly beneficial for birds, fostering better nutrition and promoting biodiversity, while often helping to deter unwanted species such as starlings, and with many designs being squirrel-resistant and durable .

How do you clean a suet feeder effectively?

To clean a suet feeder effectively, remove any remaining suet, soak the feeder in warm, soapy water, scrub with a brush to remove residue, rinse thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely before refilling (Source).

What types of birds are deterred by suet?

Like a knight guarding a castle, the Upside-Down Suet Feeder deters starlings and grackles, who find it challenging to cling and feed upside down, allowing smaller, more agile birds like woodpeckers and nuthatches to enjoy the suet (Source).

How often should suet feeders be refilled?

Refill your suet feeders every few days or when they’re almost empty to keep the birds returning. During high activity seasons, you might need to refill more frequently to match birds’ increased feeding needs .

Are there specific seasons for feeding suet?

Feed suet year-round, but it’s especially beneficial in fall and winter. Birds need the extra fat to stay warm and energized. When temperatures soar in summer, use no-melt suet to prevent spoilage .

Conclusion

Notably, 75% of bird enthusiasts report a substantial reduction in pest invasions with upside-down feeders. Utilizing an optimal suet feeder can markedly alleviate pest concerns while attracting diverse bird species.

With options such as the Ez Fill Suet Basket and Nature’s Way Upside Down Cedar Feeder, you’ll enhance your bird-watching experience. By selecting the appropriate feeder and positioning it judiciously, you guarantee that beneficial birds like woodpeckers and nuthatches receive their share without interference from pests.

Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh is a passionate bird enthusiast and author with a deep love for avian creatures. With years of experience studying and observing birds in their natural habitats, Mutasim has developed a profound understanding of their behavior, habitats, and conservation. Through his writings, Mutasim aims to inspire others to appreciate and protect the beautiful world of birds.

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