Whether you’re an avid birder Who ventures out daily throughout the migration, or are you more of a stationary type? backyard feeder-filler Smart bird feeders allow you to connect more closely with nature—and get charming glimpses of the birds themselves via cute photos and videos. Initially, the concept of utilizing and setting up a smart feeder might appear intimidating if you're not well-versed in this tech, yet our readers report finding them enjoyable and straightforward to use.
Below are the reasons for incorporating a smart bird feeder into your outdoor space along with feedback from reviewers. Birds & Blooms Field editors and reviewers discussing the advantages and disadvantages of their personal smart feeders.
What Exactly Is a Smart Bird Feeder?
In essence, a smart bird feeder typically means a feeder equipped with a built-in camera. This camera links up to your smartphone via an application.
If you've used or even come across a Ring doorbell, consider smart feeders in much the same vein. Whenever a bird perches on the feeder, the attached camera captures an image. Subsequently, this device sends the photograph or clip to your application, often accompanied by a notification indicating that a guest has arrived.
Although certain users mention getting inundated with alerts from the application after birds locate their feeder, it’s worth noting that many of these intelligent bird feeder applications provide an option to decrease or disable notifications altogether.
Some feeders additionally include AI technology to identify your bird For you — though if you're a passionate birdwatcher, you might be able to manage that on your own.
What Is the Price of Smart BirdFeeders?
Generally, these feeders range between $100 and $300, though some models may be priced somewhat below or above this interval.
Well-regarded and highly rated brands such as Bird Buddy and Birdfy are available. These provide "conventional" smart feeders that you can load with birdseed, along with hummingbird feeders .
Additional accessory options consist of suet ball holders, perch extenders, and seed guard shields.
For certain intelligent birdfeeders, incorporating AI technology to recognize different avian species comes with an extra monthly fee.
What Is the Function of Intelligent Bird Feeders?
Many intelligent feeders use a camera powered by a rechargeable battery. Occasionally, a solar panel charges the battery, eliminating the need for manual removal and recharging.
The battery duration differs according to the brand, type of feeder, and how frequently the feeder is used (the higher the bird traffic, the greater the number of photographs produced).
Birds & Blooms Readers Share Their Thoughts on Intelligent Feeders
Birds Adore It, But It Isn’t Squirrel Resistant
“I got mine for Christmas. I really enjoy watching the birds come to eat. So far it has been sturdy, but I’m afraid a squirrel will break it.” — reader Cindy Mengert
Hard to Take Out the Battery
"I enjoy observing the wildlife in my backyard, but removing it from the stand to recharge the battery can be tricky since you have to unscrew several difficult-to-access screws. I've misplaced two of them among the flowers and ended up using replacements." — reader Carla Wells
Too Many Notifications
"I own the Soliom Pro smart bird feeder, and I absolutely adore it! This device gets powered via solar energy, though you do have the option to connect it directly to an electrical outlet for charging as well. Even when the weather isn't particularly sunny, it continues to recharge using available daylight. One thing I really enjoy about this product is being able to spot various visiting birds and watching their brief video clips. However, one minor inconvenience was having to disable the notifications since they were coming through quite frequently. Despite turning these off, I am still capable of viewing the recorded footage within the associated application. To my delight, I've been fortunate enough to observe numerous different species of birds!" — reader Teresa Ackerman Kalmey
Birds & Blooms Field Editors Test Smart Feeders
Solar Panel Prolongs Battery Duration
I've been using a Bird Buddy for quite some time now. I opted for the version with a solar panel rooftop because it greatly extends the battery life of the camera. It’s fantastic! Family members have joined through the user-friendly app and they really like receiving notifications saying 'You’ve got a guest!' The Bird Buddy system can identify almost every type of bird. common bird That approaches the feeder and even identifies squirrels. The images captured by the remote camera are crystal clear, and because the birds are so near to the lens, the videos make for an entertaining viewing experience." — Field Editor Amy Williams
Pleasure in Observing Avian Guests
I purchased the Bird Buddy as a present. It features a solar panel rooftop. The person I gave it to shared a link allowing me to view what was visiting to feed, which was enjoyable to watch various bird species. I'm considering getting one for myself too so I can see the orioles "That visit my grape jelly feeders." — Field Editor Linda Barnes
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