Underneath Bird Feeder

The simple design of the Underneath Bird Feeder from Duncraft can help solve some of backyard birders' most complex problems: feeder-raiding squirrels, bully birds and weather-related seed mildew. With a large capacity and easy use, this is an attractive and convenient feeder for small backyard birds.

The long, square tube of the Underneath Bird Feeder is both simple and ingenious. The length of the tube prevents hungry or opportunistic squirrels from reaching down the tube to access the seed, and the durable recycled plastic construction does not allow them a grip with their claws. The sturdy, tapered lid has a deep lip and fits snuggly on the feeder, preventing squirrels or other industrious feeder pests from prying it off, but is still easily removed for fast refilling.

Because the seed is only released through a slightly recessed metal mesh at the bottom of the feeder, there is no way for moisture to contaminate the seed. The size of the mesh is suitable for black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds or sunflower hearts, but not smaller seeds or nuts. A single plastic perch with a rubber base extends from the center of the base and can be adjusted for different lengths. The perch can become crooked but is easily repositioned, and while the base can loosen over time, it can be easily glued back into place. This vertical perch design is perfect for small birds, and while only one bird can cling to the perch at a time, the large capacity of the feeder provides plenty of seed for a large backyard flock. Because the perch is below the seed, no droppings will contaminate the seed, making this feeder especially useful in areas where disease outbreaks are common.

The feeder's wood grain finish and neutral brown color is attractive and blends into any natural backyard environment but can be inconvenient to check for refilling, since there are no windows or interior views through the tube. Equipped with a long wire hanger, the feeder is easy to hang but may require an accessory hook to hang in some areas.

With its vertical perch and sturdy design, the Underneath Bird Feeder is perfect for small clinging birds such as chickadees, nuthatches and titmice, and even industrious downy woodpeckers may find a way to cling to the perch or mesh to steal a seed, while larger birds such as European starlings or grackles cannot use the feeder. Squirrel-resistant, weather-resistant and highly functional, this feeder is a splendid addition to a backyard buffet.