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12 Best Bird Feeder Poles in 2022 (Yes, it Matters!)

Are squirrels taking over your bird feeders?

A proper bird feeder pole is essential if you want to enjoy birds in your backyard without squirrels and other wildlife getting in the way.

Pick a bird feeder pole that is tall, sturdy, and squirrel proof. Here are the best feeder poles on the market today.

We Recommend

Best feeding station

Ashman Deluxe
Feeding Station

Best tall option

Droll Yankees
Shepherd Hook

Best squirrel-proof

Sequoia Squirrel
Stopper System

Bird feeder pole

1. Ashman Deluxe Bird Feeding Station

The Ashman Deluxe bird feeder pole is one of the most critically acclaimed ones on the market today, and for a good reason. 

It’s made of durable materials, with both the hanger pole and the hanger hooks being manufactured of rugged metal. 

The most significant advantage of this design is that it boasts adjustable hangers, which means you can move them up and down on the bird feeder pole system as per your preferences. 

As for stability, you don’t have to worry about anything as this unit comes with 5 sharp prongs that can be pushed deep into the ground. Additionally, the smaller hooks that the bird feeding pole is outfitted with can be used for hummingbird feeders (for nectar).

What we liked

  • Very stable thanks to its prongs
  • Made of materials that can stand the test of time
  • Comes with a very rugged water bowl included
  • The accessories can be detached for cleaning
  • You can adjust the height of the feeders
  • Top hooks can be used for nectar for hummingbirds
  • Comes with a bird bath tray

What we didn’t like

  • When looking for a bird feeder pole squirrel proof designs are important and you have to buy a baffle separately in this case
  • The tubing can’t support heavy flower pots

Size: 22 inches wide, 91 inches tall
Feeder spots: 2 small feeder hooks, 2 large twin hooks, 1 bird bath tray, 1 mesh tray
Animal proof: No, but baffle compatible
Best for whom: Birdwatchers hoping to attract different bird species to their backyard

2. Squirrel Stopper Sequoia Squirrel Proof Pole System

Looking for an excellent squirrel proof bird feeder pole system? 

If that’s so, you should consider this 4 hook bird feeder pole as it comes with all the right features. 

It includes an auger for an easy installation process and it has several different hanging stations.

The most important benefit offered by this freestanding bird feeder pole is its middle section, where a universal baffle is located. 

The squirrel proof bird feeder on a pole will make it possible just for the birds to have a snack and avoid allowing other critters to steal their food. 

While the item is clearly a contender for the title of the best bird feeder pole, you can use its hangers for other things such as wind chimes or flower pots. 

What we liked

  • Sturdy steel construction guarantees durability
  • Can be pushed into the ground with ease 
  • Deters squirrels and raccoons thanks to its baffle
  • This bird pole can hold decorative items, too, not just bird baths and bird food bowls
  • Maintains its stability even in strong wind
  • The hangers can be used for hummingbird feeders as they’re located at the top
  • Very tall, but reachable by the birds

What we didn’t like

  • The bottom of the pole for bird feeder purposes needs to go at least 2 feet into the ground
  • The installation instructions could be better

Size: 90 inches tall, 16 inches wide
Feeder spots: 4 feeder hooks
Animal proof: Yes (includes baffle)
Best for whom: Birdwatchers who want to make sure that their bird food gets eaten only by the birds, not by the squirrels

3. Droll Yankees Shepherd Hook Bird Feeder Hanger

The Droll Yankees Shepherd Hook is a high-quality simple shepherd hook setup that features a built-in “No Tilt” auger system and a 16-inch arm with a locking hook. 

This feeder pole stands at 77-inches and is 1-inch in diameter. The powder coated steel material is rust resistant and overall the design is sturdy. 

The classic shepherd hook is a great style for any backyard. Its simplicity lends to its charm. 

Although this pole has only one spot for a feeder, a devoted birdwatcher who consistently provides birdseed can attract a number of beautiful birds. 

A single thistle-seed bird feeder, for example, in the right location can attract dozens of goldfinch in the summer.

Droll Yankees is one of the most trusted names in the birdwatching community. 

What we liked

  • Classic Shepherd Hook Style
  • “No-Tilt” Auger
  • Easy-to-Install
  • Rust Resistant
  • Trusted Brand
  • Locking Hook
  • Made in the USA

What we didn’t like

  • Only 1 feeder spot

Size: 1 inch in diameter, 77 inches tall, 16 inch arm
Feeder spots: 1
Animal proof: No, but baffle compatible.
Best for whom: Best for the birdwatcher who may want to only maintain 1 bird feeder.

4. Gray Bunny Premium Bird Feeding Station Kit

With the Gray Bunny bird feeder post, you don’t have to worry about the birds ever running out of food. 

Similarly to other bird feeder poles showcased in our selection, this one, too, comes with adjustable hangers. 

This heavy duty bird feeder pole includes a set of twin top hooks that are effective in attracting smaller bird species, such as titmice or finches, especially since you can hang a nyjer, hopper, or tube feeder on them. 

You don’t have to worry about this unit coming with an iron hanger that could rust after a while. Unlike other models, this one takes the cake when it comes to durability as it is crafted from steel. Therefore, it’s a remarkably heavy duty bird feeding station.

What we liked

  • Unlike other bird feeder posts, this one comes with adjustable attachments
  • All of the hardware is included in the box
  • Installing the feeder anywhere in your garden is very easy
  • Squirrel-baffle compatible design
  • The mesh tray can be used for peanuts, dried fruit, or mealworms, for bigger, ground birds
  • Includes a plastic bowl that you can use as a bird bath
  • Can be utilized for hanging plants, ornaments, and other accessories

What we didn’t like

  • It has only two prongs at the bottom
  • The top hooks can’t hold heavy feeders

Size: 91 inches tall, 22 inches wide
Feeder spots: 4 feeder hooks, 1 mesh tray, 1 plastic bird bath
Animal proof: No, but squirrel-baffle compatible
Best for whom: Birdwatchers who get a variety of bird species in their gardens from ground birds to smaller ones like finches

5. Railing Bird Feeder Hanging Hook Kit

While this product isn’t an adjustable bird feeder pole, it can do the trick in some situations, especially if you want to avoid squirrels stealing your birds’ food. 

The hanger hook kit can be used for several different tasks, not just as an imitation of a bird feeder hanger pole. 

You can also use it to hang a bird bath, wind chimes, flowers, and plants, and even lanterns right on your front porch. 

Thanks to its rugged construction and its excellent hanger brackets, this product can hold a weight of up to 15 lbs. 

We’d say that this hook kit has a net advantage over a standard bird feeder pole as its hanging accessory is universal, so it can be installed on any banister, railing, or even your fence pole. 

What we liked

  • Very easy to assemble even by a less tech-savvy individual
  • Can hold anything from bird baths and feeders to flower pots
  • Has a weight capacity of 15 lbs
  • Comes with a universal accessory for hanging it on railings or spindles
  • Made of rugged materials for excellent durability
  • The hook is adjustable 
  • Rust-resistant, so it can also be used in the cold season

What we didn’t like

  • It doesn’t include a pole with hook designs that you can push into the ground

Size: 18 x 6 x 4 inches
Feeder spots: 1 (on a single hook)
Animal proof: No
Best for whom: Birdwatchers who love to get birds on their balconies or patios

6. TQVAI 12 Inch Strong Rust Resistant Bird Feeder Hooks

If you are on a budget and you can’t afford to invest in a durable but pricey bird feeder stand, you might want to consider this set of bird feeder hooks. 

The bird hooks can be installed right on the tree branches, allowing you to hang bird houses complete with feeders. 

Furthermore, these bird feeder hangers can be used for hanging other items, too, such as flower pots or lanterns, if you’re looking to take your garden or orchard design to a whole new level. 

Each set includes three 12-inch hooks that are rust-resistant. Believe it or not, each bird feeder hanger can hold as many as 35 pounds, so it’s very rugged. 

What we liked

  • The hooks can be hung anywhere from a squirrel proof bird feeder pole to a tree branch
  • You can hang anything on them from bird feeders to solar lights or garden decorations
  • Every hook has a weight capacity of 35 pounds
  • The set is made of 304 stainless steel, so it is rust-resistant and durable
  • Very easy to install by anyone
  • Larger hook wire diameter for hanging plants and heavier things
  • Very affordable

What we didn’t like

  • Can be squirrel-proof only if you hang it near your home 
  • If the bird feeder isn’t heavy, it can be moved by strong wind

Size: 4.5 x 0.3 x 12 inches
Feeder spots: 1 per every hook, so 3 in total
Animal proof: Depends on the mounting location 
Best for whom: Birdwatchers on a budget or those that already have a pole

7. Qiangni Bird Feeder Bracket

If you are in the market for a set of hangers for bird feeders that’s easy to install on a tree trunk or your fence and that lasts for a lifetime, this one should be right up your alley. 

The model makes the perfect choice of bird feeder hangers for trees, but you can screw it onto anything you like.

Every bird feeder holder comes with a maximum weight capacity of 30 pounds, so it can be used for hanging flower pots and other decorative items if you want. 

The bracket is outfitted with 3 self-tapping screws that make installing the hanger hook a piece of cake. You can also use the product as a hummingbird feeder hanger for nyjer seeds and nectar. 

What we liked

  • Every set includes two rugged hooks
  • You can use the hooks for hanging anything from holiday decorations to wind chimes
  • Easy to install even for less tech-savvy individuals
  • Each bracket can hold up to 30 pounds of weight
  • If it’s set up properly, even strong wind can’t move it
  • Excellent customer service
  • Every product can be returned in a period of 180 days

What we didn’t like

  • Squirrel proofness depends on the location

Size: 13.78 inches long and 7.87 inches high
Feeder spots: 1 per every hook
Animal proof: Depends on the location 
Best for whom: Birdwatchers who want to hang feeders on their fences or tree trunks

8. Squirrel Stopper Denali Squirrel Proof Mounting Pole System

Unlike other poles for bird feeders that you will come across while doing your research, this one is unique in that it’s perfectly capable of deterring squirrels. 

The baffle moves up and down and even side to side to keep squirrels from reaching the food no matter how hard they try. 

The metal bird feeder pole can stand the test of time, especially since it is galvanized, and therefore, it’s not going to be affected by rust. 

Since this is a pretty long bird feeder pole, it’s recommended for bird houses for smaller species that love to fly high.

Like just a few bird feeder pole systems out there, this one comes with a heavy duty auger for easy installation. 

What we liked

  • The sturdy bird feeder pole design guarantees durability
  • Very easy to install by anyone, with as little effort as possible
  • The baffle included in the design makes it almost impossible for squirrels to steal the bird food
  • Can hold even the heaviest and largest bird houses
  • Reasonably tall for small species of birds
  • Stable enough to withstand strong wind
  • Doesn’t cost a fortune

What we didn’t like

  • The instructions could be better
  • Some wish it came with an additional pole section

Size: 79.5 inches tall, 10 inches wide
Feeder spots: 1, at the top
Animal proof: Yes (design includes the baffle)
Best for whom: Birdwatchers who want a safe and easy way of caring for local and migratory bird species

9. Ashman Deluxe Bird Feeding Station

The Ashman Deluxe Bird Feeding Station does it all. If you are someone who wants to attract a variety of birds to your yard, this feeder pole may be the best option for you. 

At 91 inches this feeder pole is much taller than most others. It also includes a number of features such as different feeding stations that allow you to more fully customize your feeder system. 

This pole is highly versatile and comes with multiple options. There are 2 main hooks at the top of the feeder pole. These are fixed pieces. 

Below, however, you have the option of including 2 other smaller hooks, an open mesh feeding tray, and a plastic bird bath. These options are all adjustable and can be installed in any order you prefer.

Ashman Online is a trusted seller that specializes in garden decor. Their feeder poles are rust-resistant, sturdy, and beautifully designed. If for any reason you want to return this product, Ashman offers a no-questions-asked return policy. 

What we liked

  • Easy-to-Install
  • Quality Build
  • Multifunctioning
  • Customizable
  • Water Bowl Included
  • Reasonable Price

What we didn’t like

  • Not meant for heavy flower pots

Size: 91 inches tall, 22 inches wide
Feeder spots: 4 Feeder Hooks, 1 Mesh Tray, and 1 Plastic Bird Bath
Animal proof: No, but baffle compatible.
Best for whom: Best for the birdwatcher hoping to attract many different kinds of birds to their backyard.

10. Swingarm Single Hook 60-inch Heavy Duty Bird Feeder Pole

The 60-inch Single Hook Swinging Bird Feeder Pole is a clever design that brings the birds even closer! 

SwingArm USA specializes in designing feeder poles that affix easily to your porch or deck. 

With bird feeders this close you won’t even need binoculars.

The 60-inch Single Hook Swinging Bird Feeder is a heavy duty feeder pole capable of holding up to 25 lbs. 

This makes it ideal for holding larger squirrel-proof bird feeders or even a bird feeder/baffle combo. 

This feeder pole system may seem like a long reach, but the swinging arm design makes it easy to bring your bird feeder closer for when you need to refill your birdseed.

What we liked

  • Heavy Duty
  • Swing Arm
  • Easy Refill Height
  • Made in USA
  • Lifetime Warranty

What we didn’t like

  • Installation Requires Some Tools
  • Squirrels May Be Able to Reach Feeder

Size: 60 inches
Feeder spots: 1
Animal proof: No
Best for whom: Best for the birdwatcher who likes the birds to come as close as their porch.

11. Kettle Moraine Squirrel Proof Arm Pole

Another no-fuss option with the classic double arm is the Kettle Moraine Squirrel Proof 2 Arm bird feeder pole

This feeder pole system features 2 feeder arms and a squirrel proof baffle system

The Kettle Moraine Squirrel Proof 2 Arm is easy-to-install and includes a built in auger that makes set up simple.

Kettle Moraine offers quality products and great customer service. 

They specialize in building gorgeous wooden bird feeders and bird houses, which would be a perfect addition to this feeder pole setup.

What we liked

  • Built-in Auger
  • Easy-to-Install
  • Made in USA
  • Powder Coated Steel
  • Squirrel Proof
  • Customer Service

What we didn’t like

  • The price

Size: 1 inch in diameter, 85 inches tall, 12 inch arms
Feeder spots: 2
Animal proof: Squirrel Proof
Best for whom: Best for the birdwatcher who may want to set up 2 low-maintenance feeding stations.

12. Squirrel Stopper Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder Pole Set

The Squirrel Stopper Pole and Baffle Set is a heavy-duty feeder pole with a strong, elegant design. 

This feeder pole is ideal for backyard birdwatchers who have issues with squirrels getting into their bird feeders. 

The unique Squirrel Stopper baffle is a compact inverted-cone design that is spring loaded. This highly-effective set-up is 100% squirrel proof.

The Squirrel Stopper Pole and Baffle Set is made of 16-gauge powder-coated steel. 

The pole itself is 2 inches in diameter and features a steel auger on the bottom to secure the feeder pole into the ground. This is a tall feeder pole that allows you to hang up to 8 feeders.

The Squirrel Stopper brand offers a simple, yet ingenious way to prevent squirrels from eating your birdseed. Their patented design is one of the best on the market.

What we liked

  • Easy to clean
  • Easy to fill
  • Built-in drain holes
  • Up to 15 birds can feed at once
  • Collapsible when not in use
  • Zinc-plated and rust-resistant
  • Durable all-metal construction

What we didn’t like

  • The instruction sheet is mediocre

Size: 2 inches in diameter, 92 inches tall (when installed feeders should hang between 5-6 feet), 36 inches wide
Feeder spots
: 8
Animal proof: 100% Squirrel Proof
Best for whom: Best for the dedicated birdwatcher who is tired of squirrels eating their bird seed.

Types of bird feeder poles

There are many different types of bird feeder poles and choosing the right one really depends on your birdwatching preferences and how much time you want to dedicate to this hobby.

Materials

Wooden feeder posts can look more attractive depending on the set-up.  However, these posts tend to be blockier and more difficult to install. Metal feeder poles can be just as charming and much more simple to install.

Single pole vs. pole system

Some birdwatchers prefer the simplicity of a single-armed feeder pole, but this will limit the number of birds you may be able to see. A multi-functioning feeder pole, one that can accommodate multiple feeders and perhaps even a bird bath, will only increase the number of birds you may be able to attract to your yard.

Pest and squirrel proof

Pest proof feeder poles come in a variety of sizes. For larger pests, such as raccoons or deer, it may be necessary to install a heavy duty feeder pole that features some sort of deterrent that prevents these critters from getting into your feeders. For squirrels, typically a baffle feature will stop these clever creatures from scurrying up the pole to reach your birdseed.

Pole diameter

Some poles have a smaller diameter near 1 inch. These poles have the potential to lean or bend from the weight of the feeder. An effective ground support system can offset this, however wider diameters–2 inches and higher–can also provide more stability for your feeder system. 

How to choose the best bird feeder pole?

It’s important to choose the right feeder pole so that you can set up a feeding station perfect for your birdwatching pleasure. Here are the qualities birdwatchers hope to find in a feeder pole. 

Sturdy

A solid feeder pole with strong ground support will be a benefit in the long run. Low-quality feeder poles can lean or even bend under the weight of certain feeders or perhaps the weight of a featherless critter looking for an easy meal.

Easy to install

Some birdwatchers go to great lengths to install heavy duty bird feeder poles that are thick and sturdy. But just because the circumference of the feeder pole is larger doesn’t mean its better. Instead of pulling out the post hole digger, choose an easy-to-install feeder pole with built-in ground supports to make set-up a breeze. 

Accessible

A great feeder pole will be both accessible and inaccessible. It should be easy for you and the birds to reach but difficult for predators such as cats to reach. A feeder pole that is either too tall or too short may make refilling your bird feeders difficult or put the birds at risk of becoming a meal.

Squirrel proof

A bird feeder is only as enjoyable as the birds that come to visit. It’s difficult for birds to become accustomed to your feeders when there are other animals visiting your feeders and eating all that’s been laid out. When choosing a feeder pole, make sure that it is squirrel proof or at the very least capable of supporting a baffle system.

Related11 Best Bird Seeds in 2020 (to Attract Songbirds)

How tall should a bird feeder pole be?

Bird feeder poles can be anywhere between 2 feet and 9 feet tall. Some may have a small 1/2   inch diameter, others may be as large as 3 inches. The feeder pole you choose really depends on you and where you plan to place it. 

Typically, a bird feeder should be between 5-6 feet from the ground. This allows the birds to feast safely, without having to worry about predators lurking from below such as cats. It’s also convenient because bird feeders at that height are easy to refill. 

However, some birds prefer to eat at lower or higher levels. It’s certainly not uncommon to see birds on the ground, such as sparrows, picking through the grass to find discarded seeds or unsuspecting insects. The same is true of birds who prefer food sources that may be higher up. 

Woodpeckers tend to prefer suet feeders that are higher up and within the familiar reaches of a tree. So it might be interesting for birdwatchers to place feeders at varying levels to see which heights the birds prefer. (1)

Related: Best Bird Houses in 2020 (to Attract Nesting Birds)

How to install a bird feeder pole?

Setting up a bird feeder pole is fairly simple, especially if you’ve chosen an easy-to-install feeder pole. 

Some will feature a built-in auger that you can easily screw straight into the ground. These built-in augers not only make installation easy but they also provided extra support. 

Other feeder poles may need to be hammered into the ground. No matter if you are augering or hammering a feeder pole, use a level to ensure that your feeder pole stays straight.

Here are a few other tips to help you find the ideal location for your bird feeder:

  • Place the feeder in a location where a bird would feel safe. Having a tree or shrub nearby where small birds can retreat help keep them safe from hawks and other predators. (2)
      
  • Having trees or shrubs nearby is great, but avoid having the feeder within 10 feet of overhanging trees or shrubs, especially if you have a problem with squirrels. Squirrels will quickly learn the best way to reach your bird feeders if you give them the opportunity. 
      
  • If your feeder is near a window, add opaque window decorations to help birds avoid flying into the glass.
      
  • Install a baffle system (if one is not already built-in). Baffles are a great way to deter pesky squirrels and other animals from eating your birdseed.

Frequently asked questions

How tall should a bird feeder pole be?

For doves, a too tall bird feeder pole would measure 9 feet in height, but a 2-3 feet one would make the best bird feeder pole system. For smaller species, such as bluebirds and hummingbirds, a 9-ft one would be perfect.

How do you stabilize a bird feeder pole?

Even the best squirrel proof bird feeder pole can be tipped over by strong wind, but you can use an in-ground pole stabilizer to circumvent this problem or insert the pole as deep into the ground as possible.

Where should I put my bird feeder pole?

No matter if you get wooden bird feeder pole systems or a steel bird feeder pole, you should place it a little farther from trees so that squirrels can’t jump on it and eat the bird food. The middle of your backyard would be a great place, for instance.

Can a squirrel climb up a metal pole?

The reason squirrel proof bird feeder poles are popular nowadays is that squirrels are indeed capable of climbing almost anything, even smooth and slippery surfaces. So, a standard metal pole will have no chance against a squirrel attack.

What can you put on a pole to keep squirrels off?

You can use a heavy duty shepherds hook or other attachments to install a baffle on your hook feeder pole. The baffle will make it nearly impossible for the critters to climb the bird feeding poles, leaving the food only to the birds.

Will Vaseline keep squirrels off bird feeder?

In theory, covering a hummingbird feeder pole in Vaseline would make it more difficult for squirrels to climb it, but it could also harm the animals. That is why lubricants such as this one aren’t recommended for a hanging plant pole or bird feeder.

How far from house should bird feeder be?

If you know that you have squirrels in your area, placing an outdoor hanging plant pole a little farther from your house (at least 5 feet) is a good idea. Squirrels can climb house walls too, just as they can tree trunks and branches.

What is the best way to hang a suet feeder?

A feeder pole should be placed at least 3 to 30 feet away from your home windows as the birds can accidentally hurt themselves if the bird post is too close. The ideal place would be near thick branches or tree trunks. 

2 thoughts on “12 Best Bird Feeder Poles in 2022 (Yes, it Matters!)”

  1. Avatar

    I purchased the Ashman Deluxe Bird Feeding Station last May and while it was beautiful at first, I am extremely disappointed that it didn’t survive the winter. The threads that hold the center pole together rusted out, so it can no longer be used. A weld broke on one of the top hanger arms and one of the bottom prongs broke off completely. Approximately 10% of their Amazon customer base has complained about the same issues, so perhaps you should rethink this unless you plan to replace your feeder pole every year. I am currently looking for something that is actually durable.

  2. Avatar

    An extra tall pole, 108″ or more is better when rats decide to move in your yard. Then you must just feed the birds, no more squirrels or large birds, and put a seed catcher underneath the feeders plus clean up any residue seeds remaining on the ground every day (if you can). I also had to stop putting out peanuts in shells for the squirrels and blue jays. Sadly rats really take all the fun out of feeding the birds and wildlife.

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