Ever wish you could get a perfect, up-close photo of backyard cardinals or capture the quirky antics of your neighborhood woodpecker without scaring them away? Or maybe you just wish you could watch all your favorite backyard birds from inches away.
Say hello to your new best friend: the bird feeder with a camera.
This fantastic tech upgrade combines the joy of bird feeding with the thrill of photography, letting you capture images right from the comfort of your home.
Essentally, it’s a camera nestled inside your bird feeder, snapping high-resolution photos and videos every time a feathered friend stops by for a snack. It makes birdwatching more entertaining, interesting, and even more educational as you watch behaviors, hear sounds, and see who’s visiting while you’re not looking.
Let’s dive into the best smart bird feeder cameras of 2024 and take your birdwatching to a whole new level!
Contents
- Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder
- Netvue Birdfy Bird Feeder Camera
- Technaxx TX-165 Full HD Birdcam Feeder
- Solium BF08 Solar Smart Bird Feeder
- DIY bird feeder camera
- What exactly is a bird feeder camera?
- Bird feeder camera features
- What about app compatibility?
- What about bird house cameras? Or bird bath cameras?
- How to choose the best birder feeder camera for you
Our picks at a glance
Why you can trust our reviews
Why trust us? Easy: We’ve been birdwatching since before it was cool (okay, it was never not cool). We’ve spent endless hours in the field and own enough bird guidebooks to fill a small library, giving us the experience to back up our birdy opinions.
We genuinely care about your birding adventures, so we’re always transparent and honest with what we really think. We only recommend things we use or genuinely love, and we tell you what to be wary of. Plus, we’re not in anyone’s pocket—our reviews are completely unbiased. Our mission is epic birding experiences for everyone, and our honest reviews reflect that.
Best Bird Feeder Cameras: Our Reviews & Recommendations
1. Bird Buddy
- 5MP with wide dynamic range
- 720p to 1080p video
- 120 degree field of view
- Real-time visit notifications
- Weather-resistant
- Requires a Wi-Fi connection for storage
- Rechargeable lithium ion battery with solar roof option
- AI bird recognition
- Smartphone app compatibility
WHAT WE THINK
The Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder is like having your very own bird paparazzi, right in your backyard. This feeder comes equipped with a 5MP camera and wide dynamic range, capturing sharp, clear images of your feathered visitors as they drop in for a snack. Thanks to its 120-degree field of view, you won’t miss a single wing flap or tail flick.
Let’s talk power options: The Bird Buddy runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts between 5 to 15 days. If you’re into endless birdwatching, you can plug it in for continuous streaming. Or, go for the solar roof option and let the sun keep things running 24/7.
Now, here’s where it gets super cool: Bird Buddy features AI that identifies bird species. It’s like having a personal ornithologist on standby. The Bird Buddy app works seamlessly with the feeder, automatically recognizing and categorizing the birds that visit. If you love using Merlin Bird ID, this will be right up your alley.
Of course, it doesn’t get the species right every time. AI certainly isn’t perfect. But it has an option for you to switch it to the correct species. So if it identifies a purple finch as a house finch, you can tell it “Nope!” and correct its oopsie.
The bird buddy feeder also boasts impressive camera quality, making it a top choice for bird enthusiasts who care about seeing every detail of their visitors, and sharing high quality photos and videos with friends or on social media.
In fact, Bird Buddy isn’t just about pretty pictures and bird IDs. It turns birdwatching into a community event. Share your best shots with the Bird Buddy community, check out who’s visiting other feeders worldwide, and invite friends and family to your birdwatching party.
Sure, it’s a bit of an investment, but what you’re getting is more than just a bird feeder camera. You’re signing up for an immersive birdwatching experience with a vibrant community vibe.
One thing to note: there’s no local storage, so you’ll need a Wi-Fi connection to use it. But honestly, the Bird Buddy is so much fun, we can’t recommend it enough. It’s a blast and a half!
After 6 months of testing it alongside other feeders, it’s our #1 overall choice for build, durability, quality imagery, battery life, and importantly, keeping up the fun of using the app and sharing your birdwatching experiences.
For those looking for even more features, the Bird Buddy Pro Subscription offers better image quality, increased cloud storage, and more notifications with Frenzy mode. Plus, you can invite people to your feeder – we tested it and invited family members, and it’s such a fun way to connect with folks!
You can read our deep-dive review of this feeder here.
BEST PRICES
2. Netvue Birdfy
- 1920x1080p
- Adjustable lens angle
- Wider perch options
- Weatherproof design
- AI recognition
- Battery-powered with solar option
- Hummee accessory to use as a hummingbird feeder
The Netvue Birdfy Bird Feeder is easily one of the most popular options on the market, and for good reason.
The Birdfy boasts a battery life that’s practically marathon-level (think charging just once every month or two). And if you’re all about that eco-friendly life, you can opt for the solar panel and say goodbye to charging altogether.
You get real-time bird notifications, live video streaming, and a 30-day history of bird visits. The camera quality is acceptable – it’s not super sharp and can have some odd artifacting and chromatic aberration (weird coloring at the edges of stuff), but you can certainly see who is visiting and what they’re up to without trouble.
The bird species recognition capability of the Netvue Birdfy can identify over 1000 species, catering to both new and veteran birders. The AI isn’t perfect, but it does a pretty good job at recognizing different species and pinging you about who’s stopping by. Perfect for birdwatching newbies looking to learn more about their local avian celebs.
Customization is where Birdfy shines. Want to attract hummingbirds? Slap on the Hummee Extension. Looking to bring in every bird on the block? Go for the Pro Perch Extension, which lets you offer suet blocks, fruit, or nectar. This feeder is basically a birdie buffet tailored to your preferences.
While the Bird Buddy also has similar add-ons, they’re more expensive than the all-inclusive Pro Perch pack from Netvue.
Now, if you’re looking to save a few bucks (and have your own field guides), you can skip the AI recognition and the add-ons with the Birdfy Lite model. You’ll still get fantastic high-res images and solid battery life but save a few bucks to put toward birdseed.
With its microSD card or online video storage, descent images with top-notch detection, seriously robust battery, and smart bird recognition, the Netvue Birdfy Bird Feeder is a top-notch investment for any bird enthusiast looking to turn their backyard into a birdwatching haven and isn’t too obsessed with image quality.
We’ve tested it for over 6 months and strongly recommend it for people who want to see ALLLLLL the action every day at their feeder.
You can read our deep-dive review of this feeder here.
BEST PRICES
3. Technaxx TX-165
- 8MP
- 1/3.2″ CMOS sensor
- Full HD 1080p video resolution
- 940nm LEDs for night recording
- 2″ to 6″ lens focus
- 100 degree field of view
- 0.3 second trigger speed
- Slow motion videos
- Built-in microphone and speaker
- 4 AA batteries last up to six months
- Weather-resistant
WHAT WE THINK
Looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly bird feeder with a trail cam vibe? Say hello to the Technaxx TX-165 Full HD Birdcam Feeder.
With an 8MP resolution and a 1/3.2″ CMOS sensor, it delivers sharp, high-def 1080p video, capturing every wing flap and feather twitch in stunning detail. It’s perfect for day and night action, thanks to infrared LEDs that automatically switch to night mode, letting you snap pics and videos up to 50cm away without that weird overexposed look.
The built-in microphone and speaker take your birdwatching experience to the next level, letting you listen to the sweet chirps and chatters of your bird buddies or shoo away any pesky critters trying to crash the party.
If you’re not looking to break the bank but still want quality bird footage, this is your go-to. It’s affordable without skimping on the features that matter. The rugged, outdoor trail cam feel is perfect for those who like their birdwatching with a dash of adventure. Plus, the easy setup means you can get started in no time—just set it up, fill it with seed, and let the birdwatching commence.
The Technaxx TX-165 is ideal for birdwatchers who want a straightforward, reliable bird feeder camera that gets the job done, day or night. No cutesy gimmicks, just solid performance.
BEST PRICES
4. Solium BF08
- HD 1080p
- Full-color night vision
- Cloud storage for up to three days; can be extended with a subscription or saved on the included 32G card
- 5200mAh rechargeable battery plus included 5W solar panel
- AI recognition of over 10,000 species
- Share moments through the Solium app
- Durable metal design
WHAT WE THINK
This feeder is a highly popular choice for birdwatchers who want a simple, reliable, built-to-last option. Designed with an AI camera, the Soliom BF08 Solar Smart Bird Feeder can recognize thousands of bird species. That said, like all the other smart bird feeders, recognition isn’t perfect. Keep a field guide handy for double-checking.
The AI smarts are paired with a high-resolution camera and Wi-Fi HD video live streaming, giving you a 24/7 birdwatching experience right from your phone.
When a bird visits, the feeder automatically snaps high-res photos and records videos, sending real-time notifications to your device via the Soliom Pro app. Getting a ping every time a bird stops by is pretty addictive, and a boost of fun when you’re out running errands or in dull work meetings.
But it’s not just about the tech. The Soliom BF08 is built to last with a durable metal design, making it a sturdy feeding station that birds will return to again and again. Plus, the solar panel keeps it powered up, so you can focus on watching rather than charging.
In a nutshell, the Soliom BF08 Solar Smart Bird Feeder is perfect for anyone who wants a simple but durable option that gets the job done without a huge price tag.
BEST PRICES
DIY your bird feeder camera!
If you’re more of a do-it-yourself-er, use security cameras to construct your own bird feeder camera! You can build your own housing or purchase something like the Wasserstein Bird Feeder Case which is compatible with Blink, Wyze, and Ring security cameras.
Security Camera Options
❂ Wyze Cam Outdoor v2: This 1080p full HD camera includes night vision and two-way audio—go ahead, chat with the birds, we won’t judge. It’s got a built-in battery for wire-free setup anywhere on your property and works with Alexa and Google Assistant.
❂ Blink Outdoor Camera 4: Designed to brave the elements, this battery-powered camera offers high-quality video, motion detection, infrared night vision, and two-way audio. Keep an eye on the action day and night from the Blink app. It’s compatible with Alexa and IFTTT.
❂ Ring Stick Up Cam: Perfect for a bird feeder cam, this device delivers 1080p HD video, night vision, two-way audio, and motion alerts. Power it with a rechargeable battery, plug it into an outlet, or use a solar panel for endless birdwatching.
❂ Arlo Ultra 2 Spotlight Camera: For those who want the best of the best, this camera features 4K resolution with HDR, color night vision, and a 180-degree view. Plus, it has two-way audio for listening to bird songs and Wi-Fi connectivity for live streaming.
Trail Camera Options:
Another route is using a trail camera, typically employed by hunters or wildlife researchers, but perfect for birdwatchers too! These cameras use motion sensors to start recording when animals are nearby and often include night vision.
Wingscapes BirdCam: With 42MP resolution, an adjustable focus ring, a 70 ft detection range, and an 80 ft flash range, this bird-specific trail camera is a fantastic option.
DIY vs. Ready-Built:
Choosing between a DIY setup and a ready-made bird feeder camera depends on your tech skills and needs. DIY options offer customization and can be cost-effective but require some technical know-how and time. Ready-built cameras provide convenience with high resolution, automatic recording, and species recognition, making birdwatching a breeze.
Photo: Jaymi Heimbuch
What exactly is a bird feeder camera?
A bird feeder camera is, well, exactly what it sounds like—a bird feeder with a built-in camera to snap pics and record videos of your avian visitors.
These smart feeders come packed with features like motion detection and Wi-Fi connectivity, so you can watch your backyard birdie drama unfold from anywhere.
Bird arrival notifications enhance the birdwatching experience by alerting you whenever a bird stops by for a visit.
The excitement of bird watching is amplified with these cameras, offering high-quality images and live streaming. The camera captures candid moments, giving an intimate look at your feathered friends through HD photos and videos.
Charge up the battery, fill it with bird food, and enjoy!
Photo: Jaymi Heimbuch
Bird feeder camera features
Ready to dive into the world of bird feeder cameras? Here’s what you need to know to find the best one for you:
1. Image Quality
You want crisp, clear shots of your feathered friends, right? Look for a camera with high resolution. Some feeders even let you adjust the resolution, balancing between quality footage and longer recording times.
2. Field of View
A wide field of view means capturing more of the action. Birds don’t live in a vacuum—they interact with their environment and each other. A broader perspective helps you see all the juicy details.
3. Motion Detection
Goodbye, endless hours of empty footage! Motion detection triggers the camera to start recording when a bird lands. Some models let you adjust the sensitivity to avoid false alarms from wind-blown leaves.
4. Night Vision
A nice to have but not super necessary feature, since birds aren’t really visiting at night. Built-in LEDs emit infrared light, invisible to animals but picked up by the camera, letting you capture nocturnal activities without a hitch. So, if someone very unbirdlike – say a raccoon or bear – is visiting your feeder in the wee hours, you can see exactly who it is and what you might want to adjust to deter them.
5. Weatherproofing
Your camera is going to face the elements, so it better be tough. Weatherproof designs ensure your feeder survives rain, snow, heat, and humidity, giving you year-round birdwatching. Be sure to choose a model that clearly states what kind of weatherproofing it provides.
6. Wi-Fi Connectivity
Live stream the bird action directly to your phone or tablet. With Wi-Fi, you can enjoy real-time viewing, automatic uploads, and remote access to your feeder, whether you’re at work or on vacation. For a bird feeder like the Bird Buddy, it’s a must-have feature. But for those cameras that have an SD card slot and will save images and video to the card, Wi-Fi is nice but not necessary.
7. Battery Life
Battery life varies by model. Standard cameras might run for months, while high-res, Wi-Fi-connected models need more frequent charging. Some feeders come with solar panels to extend battery life—talk about eco-friendly! In our experience, a solar panel is a fantastic addition because you practically never have to look at the battery life.
8. Artificial Intelligence
AI takes birdwatching up a notch. With bird species recognition, these AI-powered cameras can identify over 1000 species of birds, catering to both new and veteran birders. Plus, these advanced feeders can identify species and send you alerts when your favorite birds visit, or mute species that are visiting alllllll the time.
In our experience, if a feeder comes with AI as a built-in, free option, YAY! But if you need to pay extra for it, you might want to just use free options available online and field guides. Overall, the practice will make you a stronger, more knowledgable birder while sparing your wallet.
Photo: Jaymi Heimbuch
What about app compatibility?
Many bird feeder cameras offer smartphone apps for remote control and species identification. Adjust settings, get activity alerts, and check out the action from anywhere.
Some feeders like Netvue’s Birdfy and Bird Buddy have companion apps, which is a great perk.
But if your feeder of choice doesn’t, no biggie. Birding apps like Merlin Bird ID and iBird Pro can enhance your birdwatching experience.
What about bird house cameras? Or bird bath cameras?
How to choose the best birder feeder camera for you
Consider what’s most important to you—image quality, AI features, app compatibility, storage options, budget. Whether you want a high-tech setup with all the bells and whistles or a simpler model for casual watching, there’s a feeder camera out there for you.
Practical Steps to Choose Your Bird Feeder Camera
- Identify Your Priorities: Decide what features matter most to you (e.g., image quality, AI capabilities, budget).
- Research and Compare: Look at different models and compare their features. We already did that part for you. 🐦⬛❤️
- Check Compatibility: Make sure the camera works with your current devices (smartphone, tablet) and has a user-friendly app.
- Evaluate Power Options: Choose a camera with a power source that suits your setup, whether it’s batteries, plug-in, or solar-powered.
- Consider Your Environment: Ensure the camera can handle your local weather conditions.
- Set a Budget: Stick to your budget but be open to spending a bit more if a camera meets all your needs.
Once you’ve found the right bird feeder camera, set it up, fill it with seed, and get ready to enjoy a whole new level of birdwatching bliss. Happy birding!
