Top 10 Best Finch Feeders

Studies have shown that spending time in and watching nature is good for the soul. Perhaps, that is why so many people place bird feeders on their property or venture into the bush to watch the birds flick from branch to branch and listen to their songs. Adding a bird feeder to a property brings nature closer, as well as helping to sustain bird populations. With the vast amount of bird feeders available on the market, there is an overwhelming amount to choose from. From feeders that are aimed at certain types of birds to squirrel-proof feeders, suet feeders and open or enclosed feeders, there is something for everyone and every bird.

Those interested in attracting the small-to-medium sized mighty finch will enjoy their dainty chirps, conical bills suited for eating seeds, and colourful plumage. Their worldwide distribution, except for polar regions and Australia, make them a commonly-enjoyed bird in many parts of the world. Consider the following 10 top finch feeders.

1. iBorn Metal Bird Feeder Thistle Bird Feeder

If you’re looking for a sturdy, all-weather feeder that can attract a variety of birds, the iBorn Metal Bird Feeder Thistle Bird Feeder is a great choice.

Pros

• Holds up to 1.5 lb of Nyger Seed or Finch Mix
• Six standing ports allow more varieties of birds to perch at once
• Quality metal construction, copper brush finish, great for all-year-round feeding

Cons

• Some customers report that the feeder rusts quickly on the exposed faux brass
• Some birds may take a while to get used to the feeder
• The pegs sticking out are silver, which may not match the copper finish

This feeder is a great option for those who want to attract a variety of birds to their garden or yard. The feeder is made of sturdy metal and has a copper brush finish that gives it an antique look. It can hold up to 1.5 lb of Nyger Seed or Finch Mix, and the six standing ports allow more varieties of birds to perch at once. The feeder is easy to refill, thanks to its flip-top design, and it also comes with a lift-lid for easy and convenient filling. Regular cleaning will keep the feeder and seeds clean to attract more birds.

One potential downside of the iBorn Metal Bird Feeder Thistle Bird Feeder is that it may rust quickly on the exposed faux brass. Some birds may also take a while to get used to the feeder, so it may take a little while before you see any visitors. Additionally, the pegs sticking out are silver, which may not match the copper finish.

Overall, if you’re looking for a sturdy, all-weather feeder that can attract a variety of birds, the iBorn Metal Bird Feeder Thistle Bird Feeder is a great choice.

2. Perky-Pet Finch Feeder With Flexports

If you want to attract finches to your yard, the Perky-Pet Finch Feeder With Flexports is a great choice.

Pros

• Offers more feeding angles than standard finch ports
• Dual perch positions allow right-side-up and upside-down feeding
• Six feeding stations with Flexports prevent seed clogging

Cons

• Perches are easy to snap off during assembly
• Some birds may take time to discover the feeder
• May need to be refilled frequently if many birds are feeding

This feeder has patented Flexports that offer benefits for birds and you. The flexible rubber port cover is designed to prevent seed clogging and is the perfect size for small finch seed. The design also allows birds to feed at an optimal position outside of the port, offering better visibility so they feel safer and stick around longer. The feeder also allows for double feeding positions on its comfortable T-shaped perches – both right-side-up and upside-down! The bright yellow accents on this tube feeder are sure to catch the eye of thistle-eating birds as they pass by. With 1.5 lb of Nyjer on offer, your backyard birds will be in good supply. Plus, the clear tube makes it easy to monitor seed levels at a glance, so you never run out.

Overall, the Perky-Pet Finch Feeder With Flexports is a solid choice for attracting finches to your yard. It offers unique feeding angles and positions, as well as features to prevent seed clogging. However, it may require frequent refilling and some birds may take time to discover it.

3. Brome Squirrel Buster Finch Feeder

The Brome Squirrel Buster Finch Feeder is a great investment for anyone looking to attract finches to their yard while keeping squirrels away.

Pros

• Truly squirrel-proof design
• Holds 1.4 quarts of bird seed
• Patented Seed Tube Ventilation System helps seed remain fresher and attracts more birds

Cons

• Recommended bird food: Nyjer only
• Not dishwasher-safe
• Seed level indicator may impede the shroud from closing if filled past the mark

This feeder is equipped with patented Squirrel Buster technology, which means that squirrels and large birds are blocked from accessing the food but are not harmed in any way. The feeder is recommended for Nyjer seed only, and its innovative design means that eight birds can feed at the same time. The Seed Tube Ventilation System ensures that bird food remains fresher and attracts more wild birds.

The Brome Squirrel Buster Finch Feeder is easy to fill and clean, and its detachable component system allows for easy maintenance. It can be positioned just about anywhere and hangs easily with the use of a wall bracket, extension hook, or branch hook. The feeder is also UV resistant, ensuring that it will last for years to come.

Overall, if you’re looking for a squirrel-proof finch feeder that attracts a wide variety of birds and is easy to maintain, the Brome Squirrel Buster Finch Feeder is a great choice.

4. SEWANTA Finch Bird Feeders For Outside

If you’re looking for a durable and weatherproof finch feeder with an attractive design, the SEWANTA Finch Bird Feeders For Outside is a great option.

Pros

• The yellow sunflower-shaped roof and tray, along with the striking black cage, make it attractive to humans and birds alike.
• The heavy-duty steel with a rustproof powder coating and protective roof make it durable and weatherproof.
• The see-through cylinder-shaped feeder with a circular perch accommodates multiple birds at once, while the mesh grids allow for clinging and perching in an upright and upside-down position.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the feeder is not appropriate for Nyger thistle seed, as advertised.
• The feeder is smaller in size than most other feeders, so it may not be suitable for those looking for a larger capacity feeder.
• The base tray may collect rainwater, causing the seed to get moldy.

This SEWANTA Finch Bird Feeders For Outside is perfect for those who want to enjoy backyard birds. It is easy to set up, fill, and clean, and it can be hung from a height of 5 feet above the ground in your patio, backyard, or near windows for hours of viewing birds in action. Overall, it is a great gift for a bird lover in your life.

5. Perky-Pet Yellow Finch Tube Feeder

If you’re looking for a durable and functional finch feeder, the Perky-Pet Yellow Finch Tube Feeder is a great option.

Pros

• The large overhang provides shelter and shade for birds.
• The powder-coated, all-metal construction doesn’t damage.
• The circular seed tray and mesh surface allows for clinging and perching.

Cons

• The feeder is a bit larger than some other options.
• It can be difficult to fill without spilling seed.
• Some users have reported issues with squirrels accessing the feeder.

The Perky-Pet Yellow Finch Tube Feeder is a sturdy and reliable option for attracting finches to your yard. The feeder’s all-metal construction ensures durability, and the wire mesh design helps prevent damage. The feeder’s bright yellow accents make it easy for birds to spot, and the spacious seed tray allows for both clinging and perching.

One of the standout features of this feeder is the large overhang, which provides shade and shelter for birds. Additionally, the feeder’s Evenseed technology ensures that seed is dispensed evenly throughout all three tiers.

While the feeder’s larger size can make it a bit more difficult to fill, the easy-to-remove cap and base make it low maintenance and easy to clean. However, some users have reported issues with squirrels accessing the feeder, so it may not be the best option for those dealing with a squirrel problem.

Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and functional finch feeder with a large capacity and plenty of perching options, the Perky-Pet Yellow Finch Tube Feeder is a great choice.

6. Bird Quest SBF2G 17″ Spiral Thistle Bird Feeder – Green

If you’re looking for a sturdy and innovative bird feeder that can attract more birds, the Bird Quest SBF2G 17″ Spiral Thistle Bird Feeder is a great option.

Pros

• The patented spiral perch attracts more birds and allows more birds to feed at the same time.
• The feeder has nine thistle seed ports, which means more birds can feed at once.
• The aluminum and stainless steel construction with a clear molded seed tube is durable and long-lasting.

Cons

• The bottom may be difficult to clean, as it comes off completely.
• The feeder may not be squirrel-proof, despite the patented “locking lid.”
• The feeder may develop mold in the bottom if not cleaned regularly.

The Bird Quest SBF2G 17″ Spiral Thistle Bird Feeder is a great investment for anyone who wants to attract more birds to their yard. The patented spiral perch is an innovative feature that birds love, and the nine thistle seed ports mean that more birds can feed at once. The aluminum and stainless steel construction with a clear molded seed tube is durable and long-lasting, ensuring that the feeder will last for years to come.

However, the feeder may be difficult to clean, as the bottom comes off completely. Additionally, the feeder may not be completely squirrel-proof, despite the patented “locking lid.” Finally, the feeder may develop mold in the bottom if not cleaned regularly.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality bird feeder that can attract more birds to your yard, the Bird Quest SBF2G 17″ Spiral Thistle Bird Feeder is a great option.

7. Kaytee Finch Station 2 Soft Mesh Sock Feeder

If you want to attract a large number of finches to your garden, the Kaytee Finch Station 2 Soft Mesh Sock Feeder is a great option.

Pros

• The unique design allows more birds to feed at the same time, thanks to the larger surface area.
• The feeder is designed to hold more seed, which means fewer refills are required.
• The feeder comes with four socks, two for immediate use and two for replacement.

Cons

• The holes in the sock are too large, and the food falls out easily, causing waste.
• The rubber band that holds the sock in place may break easily.
• The feeder is not as durable as some other options on the market.

The Kaytee Finch Station 2 Soft Mesh Sock Feeder is a great way to attract finches to your yard. The unique design of the feeder allows multiple birds to feed at the same time, which is great if you have a large number of finches in your area. The feeder is also designed to hold more seed, which means that you won’t have to refill it as often as other feeders.

One potential downside of this feeder is that the holes in the sock are too large, which means that the food falls out easily. This can lead to waste and may attract unwanted pests to your yard. Additionally, the rubber band that holds the sock in place may break easily, which can be frustrating.

Overall, the Kaytee Finch Station 2 Soft Mesh Sock Feeder is a great option for anyone looking to attract finches to their yard. While it may not be as durable as some other options on the market, the unique design and larger capacity make it a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy watching finches in their garden.

8. Perky-Pet 399 Patented Upside Down Thistle Feeder

If you’re looking for a finch feeder that can hold up to 2 lbs of thistle seed or finch mix, the Perky-Pet 399 Patented Upside Down Thistle Feeder is a great option.

Pros

• The feeder has six upside-down feeding ports with perches that allow goldfinches to feed undisturbed.
• It includes a weather-resistant cap and feeding tube, which means it can withstand harsh weather conditions.
• The easy-refill top makes it easy to refill the feeder without making a mess.

Cons

• The feeder may not be as durable as other models on the market.
• The little stands that the birds stand on may break easily.
• Some birds may not like the feeder and may prefer other models.

If you’re looking for a finch feeder that is easy to refill and can hold up to 2 lbs of thistle seed or finch mix, the Perky-Pet 399 Patented Upside Down Thistle Feeder is a great option. The feeder has six upside-down feeding ports with perches that allow goldfinches to feed undisturbed. It includes a weather-resistant cap and feeding tube, which means it can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, the feeder may not be as durable as other models on the market, and the little stands that the birds stand on may break easily. Some birds may not like the feeder and may prefer other models. Overall, the Perky-Pet 399 Patented Upside Down Thistle Feeder is a good choice for those looking for an affordable and easy-to-use finch feeder.

9. Perky-Pet Yellow Straight-Sided Finch Feeder

If you’re looking for a durable and sturdy finch feeder that can accommodate several birds at once, the Perky-Pet Yellow Straight-Sided Finch Feeder is a great option.

Pros

• The diamond-shaped mesh surface and circular perch create an all-over dining area to accommodate several finches at once.
• The feeder’s Evenseed design allows the seed to be evenly distributed through all three tiers.
• The feeder’s powder-coated, all-metal construction resists rust and squirrel damage.

Cons

• The large overhead baffle helps to shield the seed (as well as birds) from wet weather, but the bottom part of the tube feeder can get really gunked up from tons of rain.
• The included steel ring was only about 1″ in diameter, which may not fit all bird feeder poles.
• Some reviewers have reported that the birds take a bit of time to get used to the feeder.

This feeder is easy to fill and clean, with a wide opening that ensures mess-free filling. The mesh design provides ventilation so wet seed airs out quickly and remains fresh for longer. In addition, the Evenseed technology also allows for an even distribution of seed throughout the feeder as it empties. The feeder holds up to 1.5 lb of thistle seed and is great for both clinging and perching birds.

Overall, the Perky-Pet Yellow Straight-Sided Finch Feeder is a durable and well-made option for those looking to attract finches to their yard.

10. Gray Bunny Bird Feeders for Outdoors Hanging

If you’re looking for a durable and chew-proof metal finch bird feeder with 8 feeding ports, the Gray Bunny Bird Feeders for Outdoors Hanging is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Provides ample space for finches, sparrows, robins, and more with 8 feeding ports and perches
• Made from durable metal and rigid plastic, built to last and chew-proof
• Easy to refill and clean with enclosed circular seed housing that prevents moldy buildup

Cons

• Birds may have trouble staying on the perches because they are round and slippery
• The top is not very secure and can be opened by wind, causing water to get to the seeds
• Some birds may not be attracted to this feeder

This bird feeder is perfect for birdwatching from your backyard windows or hanging in your yard or garden. It also makes a great gift for friends and family who love birds. The transparent seed compartment lets you see when it’s time to refill the seeds, and the feeder is rainproof and rust-resistant.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality finch bird feeder that can withstand chewing and last for a long time, the Gray Bunny Bird Feeders for Outdoors Hanging is a great option.

Finch Feeder Selection Tips

As long as the food is to their liking, finches will normally eat off pretty much any bird feeder, be it feeding station or platforms, feeder tubes, socks, etc. However, if we are talking about dedicated finch feeders, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. We’ll talk right away about the different types of finch feeders. It is, however, a common knowledge with backyard birders that finches love the small nyjer/niger seeds and the tube feeders made especially to hold these nyjer seeds are most commonly used to feed the finches.

Now, when selecting a finch feeder (whether a tube feeder or any other type), you need to consider a couple of things: the population of finches that flock your backyard and secondly, what other birds, besides finches, visit the place. Now, first of all, if you decide on a tube feeder, they are available in different sizes. You can have mid-size tube that will hold about 1.5-2lbs of seeds, depending on the model. This is regarded more or less the standard size for finch tube feeders. However, if you don’t have too many finches visiting your backyard, go for a smaller .6lbs capacity model or, on the other end of the spectrum, you can go for a really huge 36-inch model to feed a whole flock of finches.

Now, why this is important is that finches love fresh seeds and if the seeds are not emptied away regularly enough, they will get moldy and the birds will reject them. This means that you’ll need to discard the leftover and fill the tube with fresh seeds all over. And since bird seeds come expensive, you don’t want them to go waste on a regular basis.

So, if you’re using a bird feeder with a plastic tube, you must at least make sure that the plastic is of good quality (such as durable polymer) and don’t sweat too much. Otherwise, your seeds will get moldy and clumpy and will not appeal to the little creatures at all! We also strongly recommend that you use some moisture-absorbing product (Feeder Fresh is a good choice). These products contain water-absorbing granules that you can put at the bottom of the tube before filling it up with seeds. The granules will help absorb the moisture and will keep the seeds fresh for longer.

Also, it is a good idea to settle for a tube or mesh feeder that comes with a plate base (as in the Perky Pet NO/NO feeder on our list—our favorite as a dedicated finch feeding tool). The plate or dish at the bottom helps hold the seeds that skittle out off the tube when the birds are nibbling at them. At the same time, the husks of the seeds will gather on the dish and this will make it easier for you to keep your feeding place tidy.

Finally, no matter what type of feeder you go for, always make sure that you’ll be able to clean it without too much of a fuss. Feeders that are not thoroughly clean will spoil the next batch of seeds so much the faster and you definitely do not want that to happen!

Types of Finch Feeders

Although finches are not too particular about what type of feeder they eat off, still the feeder types that are best to feed finches include tube feeders, metal or sock mesh feeding stations, and general feeding platforms. We recommend that you use one of the first two options if you are looking for a dedicated finch feeder.

A platform is a good option only when you have a wide variety of birds flocking your backyard. However, the downside of a large platform is that some larger birds (such as the house sparrows) can actually harm or kill the finches if they are eating off the same platform. Birds such as quails, budgies, etc. are peaceful enough and won’t pose any danger for smaller species such as finches or bluebirds. However, since house sparrows are virtually everywhere and are also notorious as an aggressive species, we suggest that you don’t take chances and instead, go for special finch feeders.

Nyjer tube feeders are especially made for feeding finches as well as some other smaller bird species (such as pine siskin, doves, chickadees, etc.) that like niger seeds (also called ‘thistles’). The tubes are normally made of plastic and are fitted with small holes and perches. Larger birds don’t like niger seeds and they would anyway not be able to insert their beaks into those tiny holes. For this reason, these tube feeders are a safer option for your finches.

The same goes for mesh feeders. They are even more convenient for the birds since they can nibble away at the seeds from about anywhere across the length of the mesh and they can do this at any angles they like, including upside down! Mesh feeders are also better in keeping the seeds fresh as moisture cannot gather inside the mesh. Our favorite among mesh feeders is the all metal Perky Pet No/No (referring to its No wood/NO plastic construction) product listed above. However, for emergency purposes, you may also consider the Kaytee Finch Sock Twin Pack. These sock bags come already filled with thistle, so you can hang it at a moment’s notice. Since they hang in the air, they are good at absorbing moisture, too. The only negative is that these simple white bags do not add to the aesthetic appeal of your backyard space and they may not feel too appealing to the birds either! Also, you’ll have to dispose of these bags after 2 or 3 refills.

Top Finch Feeder Brands

When it comes to bird feeder products, Perky Pet is a standout name as the brand delivers quality products across the whole spectrum of different bird feeders and accessories. And their NO/NO metal mesh finch feeder is one of the most widely used products when it comes to feeding finches. The other popular brands in this niche include the Droll Yankees and the Kaytee. The Kaytee Finch Feeder Station is a highly popular finch feeder and so are the feeder tubes and socks offered by the brand.

Average Pricing

Most good quality finch feeder tubes or meshes are available in the convenient price bracket of $15-$20. However, you’ll require to pay some more (typically $35 or thereabout) for the larger versions, such as the Droll Yankees 36-inch Hanging tube Bird Feeder, or for feeders that feature an all-metal construction, as in the Perky Pet No/No feeder. Or, if you want a squirrel proof product, you’ll need to pay considerably more (refer the last product on our list).

Feeding the Finches: Finch Feeder Questions and Answers (Q&A)

How do I attract finches to my feeder?

Most finch species such as purple finch, chaffinch, goldfinch, house finch and more are granivores and as such, they are naturally attracted to small seed-bearing plants. So, having a good quantity of the latter in your backyard will help attract the birds. Like many other birds, finches also like plants with flowers in bloom. So, having a variety of seasonal plants in your garden is a good idea, especially since most regions in US will find different species of finches all year long.

At the same time, bear in mind that finches like backyards and gardens with enough open fields and grassy spaces. So, besides seed-bearing and flowering plants such as flower heads, dandelions, etc., you should also consider planting weedy, grassy species in order to attract more finches to your backyard.

Also, like most birds, finches also have a highly developed sensitivity to extremely bright colors. Finches, in particular, are strongly drawn to bright yellows. This is why most finch feeders will contain a generous quantity of yellow across their different parts. You can make that even better by attaching some bright-colored ribbons to your feeder. As the ribbons flutter in the winds, they will give an impression of a swirl of colors and will more readily capture the attention of the birds.

What is the best food to feed finches?

Finches love the black oil niger seeds, or the thistles, as they are commonly called. They also love sunflower seeds. Now, if you’re feeding sunflower, keep it in mind that they will only eat the sunflower kernels. The beaks of these little birds are not strong enough to crack open the sunflower shells. However, a huge number of other birds, including many larger species, love sunflower seeds as well, so we suggest you better stick with the thistle. Also remember, that the seeds must be fresh enough. Finches are highly picky on this regard and they will almost invariably reject all moldy or dried-out seeds.

Where should I put my finch feeder?

It is best to put them in an open clearing, but not too far away from the shrubs and plants. The birds may feel vulnerable to different predators if you place your feeder in too open a space. However, make sure not to put them too close to the plants either. Just keep them at a distance where the squirrels won’t be able to jump to them.

How do I clean my finch feeder?

Use plain dishwashing liquid or a bleach-water mixture (10% bleach) to clean the feeder. However, make sure to clean and dry it thoroughly enough. When using a tube feeder, get a long brush to scrub the insides of the tube well.