Bird feeders for small birds

Robins are natural ground feeders, but flat feeding surfaces such as bird tables and ground trays can increase the risk of disease spreading between birds, so we always recommend using a hanging feeder instead. Robins will readily use a mesh or caged hanging feeder filled with mealworms or suet pellets, which allow them to cling and peck while keeping food contained and hygienic.

You can also make your garden naturally attractive to Robins by growing plants that provide food. Robins love berry-bearing shrubs like holly, rowan, and hawthorn, as well as plants that attract insects and worms.

A robust caged feeder is the most reliable option. Guardians with 35-40mm gaps will exclude crows and most Starlings while allowing smaller birds such as Robins, tits and sparrows to feed safely inside.

Crows are highly intelligent and persistent, so fully enclosed cages tend to work better than simple guardian rings. Positioning feeders away from flat surfaces and fences also helps reduce opportunistic access from larger birds.

Blue Tits and Great Tits do best with hanging tube feeders with small ports, which suit their agile feeding style and prevent larger birds from accessing the food.

House Sparrows prefer a wider perch and space to feed together, so seed feeders with more area to perch work particularly well, allowing several birds to feed at once without competition.

Magpies are quite large, extremely clever and adaptable birds. They’re entertaining to watch but if you’re having trouble with them eating all your bird food or damaging bird feeders you can buy solutions such as the Medusa bird feeder defender from RSPB Shop.

Feeders and accessories to deter Magpies:

Magpies can be your friend, though, as they will eat harmful insects and rodents.