Best Bird Feeder Poles, Shafts & Feeding Systems To Attract Feathered Friends
Updated: Mar. 23, 2024
From simple shafts to elaborate feeding stations, here are the best bird feeder poles for attracting our fine feathered friends.
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Bird feeder poles serve as the perfect perch for your bird feeders, whether anchored into the ground or attached to a deck railing. Once the feeders are in place, sit back and watch the birds fly in. Whether you’re a seasoned bird enthusiast or just starting out, consider key factors when choosing a backyard bird feeder pole. Firstly, pay attention to the style, whether it’s a simple shepherd’s hook or a more intricate design, pick a pole that complements your outdoor decor.
Additionally, factor in the weight and capacity of the pole to support various bird species. And if pesky ground critters like cats or squirrels pose a challenge, make sure the pole is at least six to eight feet tall. The experts at the Backyard Bird Shop also have a tip for how to squirrel-proof a feeder: “Try a baffle (a dome or cylinder barrier) between the squirrels and your feeder. Some hang above, others mount on a pole or post below your feeder.”
Deck Mount Bird Feeder Pole
Guaranteed to hold up to gale force winds and harsh salty air, MidCenturyWoodShop Brightwork Birdhouse Poles are made of polished stainless steel that offers high tensile strength and corrosion resistance. Designed to support bird feeders and bird houses, the best-in-class-quality poles are available in 12-, 18-, 24-, 30- and 36-inch lengths. All mounting hardware and shipping are included.
Squirrel-Proof Pole System with Baffle
The Squirrel Stopper Bronze Deluxe Squirrel Proof Pole System with Baffle gives thieving rodents a run for their money, but don’t just take our word for it. Amazon reviewers gave it a near-perfect 4.9 stars.
The difference-maker can be found halfway up the eight-foot pole—a clever spring-loaded, inverted-cone-shaped baffle that bounces up and down and tilts back and forth. When squirrels jump on it or attempt to climb it, they end up back down on the ground. The pole supports up to four feeders.
Shepherd’s Hook Bird Feeder Pole
Sporting a graceful curlicue, the Beau Jardin Shepherd’s Hook Bird Feeder Pole is our pick for the easiest option to install. The shaft, a single piece of solid steel, features double-forked base prongs that you stake firmly in the ground with your foot. Go ahead and hang up your heaviest bird feeder, birdhouse or flower pots—this hook can handle it.
Decorative Deck Bird Feeder Pole
Spiff up your outdoor space with the Urban Deco Deck Bird Feeder Pole. It clamps to any horizontal deck, porch or veranda rail about two inches thick or less—no tools are necessary. Featuring two adjustable branches with leaves and a charming little bird perched on top, you can hang bird feeders and suet cages, as well as lanterns or string lights for alfresco entertaining.
Deluxe Bird Feeding Station
Create a backyard sanctuary for hungry birds with the multi-port Ashman Deluxe Bird Feeding Station. It comes with two heavy-duty top hooks, two smaller arms, a mesh tray and a birdbath. The fowl-friendly unit has three solid prongs that stake the pole deeply into the ground. Accessories can easily be removed for washing.
Adjustable Outdoor Shepherd’s Hook
Many bird feeder poles are too high, making it difficult to fill the feeders; or too low, leaving them an easy target for the neighbor’s cat. The Artibear Adjustable Outdoor Shepherd’s Hook solves both problems. Adjust the height of the pole at will—to 44, 60, 76, 92 or 108 inches—depending on how many extenders you use. There’s plenty of room on the pole to add an optional squirrel baffle (not included).
Wraparound Squirrel Baffle
If you want to successfully feed birds, you’ll probably need a way to deter squirrels. The Woodlink Audubon Wraparound Squirrel Baffle is a standalone product that easily connects to your existing bird feeder pole in seconds.
The baffle was designed to National Audubon Society specifications, and it’s a fan-favorite with more than 14,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. Made of black, powder-coated textured steel, the baffle mounts four to five feet above the ground by snapping the sides together and securing with the black coupler (included). Squirrels are foiled every time!
FAQ
How tall should a bird feeder pole be?
Position bird feeder poles at a height that allows for easy observation without neck strain, usually at eye level or slightly higher. Different birds nest and feed at a range of heights, anywhere from two to 50 feet. Adjust the height based on the type of bird species you want to attract. It shouldn’t be a hassle when it’s time to refill and clean, so make sure it’s easily accessible for maintenance tasks. A height of six to eight feet is often recommended to discourage ground-based predators.
How do you install a bird feeder pole?
Assembling and installing a bird feeder pole shouldn’t be complicated or take more than an hour. Many metal poles come with handy base prongs that take less than a minute to insert into the ground. Other types of feeder poles attach to railings using brackets or clamps. Check these periodically to ensure the fasteners haven’t loosened over time.
How do I keep my bird feeder pole straight?
Choose a well-made pole of sturdy metal, wood or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to ensure the pole won’t lean, bend, snap or tip over during a storm or high winds. Keep your bird feeder pole straight by making sure it is securely and deeply anchored into the ground with stabilizing accessories like ground augers. Ground augers are corkscrew-like attachments that provide additional anchoring; while stabilizer arms add lateral support, both helping to keep the pole steady.
Originally Published: June 30, 2021
