For bird enthusiasts, these innovative “smart” feeders are transforming the beloved pastime, bringing it into the digital age and offering an entirely new way to observe your avian visitors.
With Christmas just around the corner—along with songs celebrating turtle doves, French hens, and calling birds—this could be the perfect gift for the birdwatcher in your life.
Smart feeders come equipped with cameras that let you live-stream all the feathered action, making it easier than ever to spot and identify the birds that stop by for a snack. Many models even use AI to help recognize different species, enhancing your birdwatching skills as you learn more about the wildlife in your backyard.
Some feeders are powered by solar energy, but they all feature a built-in camera set into the feed reservoir, along with a platform below to ensure your flying guests are always in view. Here are four options available on Amazon…
NetVue Birdfy
A recent review on Nat Geo highlighted a variety of smart bird feeders, with the NetVue Birdfy® emerging as the clear favorite.
There are several models to choose from, starting with the basic version that includes a seed reservoir and feeding platform. Using AI, it can identify up to 6,000 bird species. The camera boasts 1080p resolution with color night vision, and its rechargeable battery can last up to six months on a single charge.
Higher-end models come with solar power options or additional trays for both hummingbird nectar and seeds. Some versions include attachments for suet, a mini hummingbird feeder, and even a jelly holder to attract orioles. Another popular feature is a seed guard designed to deter squirrels.
All models allow up to 20 devices to access the live feed, making it possible for families, friends, or birding groups to enjoy the show together.
For a limited time, the basic NetVue Birdfy model is available at $144, a significant reduction from its usual $234. Prices increase for the “Pro” versions, which feature extras like solar panels, hummingbird feeding options, and squirrel-proofing accessories.
BIRD BUDDY
The BIRD BUDDY® Smart Birdfeeder earned Nat Geo’s second-place spot, standing out for its highly accurate AI, which identifies over 1,000 bird species with impressive precision. In comparison, the NetVue Birdfy was noted for making occasional identification errors.
BIRD BUDDY offers superior camera quality, featuring 5-megapixel photos and 1080p HD video. It also includes a rotatable built-in solar panel for more efficient sun exposure, though it can still be recharged via USB if preferred.
The accompanying BIRD BUDDY app is essential for viewing photos and videos, and it sends real-time notifications to your phone whenever a bird visits. Uniquely, it captures a photo of every bird that lands, enhancing your bird identification skills both at home and in the field.
Priced at $279, the BIRD BUDDY offers premium features, though some Amazon customers have voiced concerns about the additional $5.99 per month (or $59 annually) fee required to fully access the app’s functionalities.
Osoeri Bird Feeder
The Osoeri Bird Feeder stands out with several features that may make it more appealing than other feeders on the market. Its AI identification software boasts the ability to recognize 11,000 species—essentially covering every bird species known to science. However, using the app requires a $5 monthly fee.
One key advantage is its affordability. Priced at $99, it’s significantly less expensive than other options. The feeder is equipped with a 135mm, 1080p HD camera with color night vision and 4x magnification. Its field of view is also broader than that of the Bird Buddy, offering a 135-degree view compared to Bird Buddy’s 120 degrees.
While it includes an adjustable solar panel, some users who lack consistent sunlight have noted battery performance issues. Despite this, 86% of customer reviews rate it 4 stars or higher. Unlike the plastic NetVue, the Osoeri feeder is made of metal, offering better durability and resistance to squirrel damage.
The feeder provides free cloud storage for bird videos and photos for up to 30 days, with the option to extend storage through a subscription service.
Wasserstein Bird Feeder Camera Case
If you already own a Ring, OG, Wyze, or Blink camera, you can save $100 or more by opting for the Wasserstein Bird Feeder Camera Case, which seamlessly attaches to your existing camera.
The upgraded model, which includes a solar panel, is priced at just $79 and leverages the capabilities of your current camera, meaning you won’t need an additional app to operate it.
Customers have praised the Wasserstein feeder for its functionality, stylish design, and easy assembly. Many have highlighted its innovative approach and reliable performance, noting its all-metal construction for enhanced stability. The non-solar version is available for $59.