As a Georgia Master Naturalist, I’ve spent years cultivating my home landscape to attract and support wildlife. Two key parts of that process—installing habitat plants and building water features—provide the most important benefits for birds and animals. A third focus area, establishing feeding stations, gives me the satisfaction of actually seeing the critters as they enjoy an easy meal. Over time, I have tested more than 50 bird feeders as my needs have evolved, and some have succumbed to the elements (or squirrels) or simply didn’t work as well as I had hoped. The best bird feeders efficiently dispense bird food, protect it from spoilage and pests, and minimize spills and messes. They also offer a clear view of feeding birds. The WoodLink Heritage Farms squirrel-resistant bird feeder is a great example that I recently added to the mix.
WoodLink manufactures and markets a wide assortment of bird feeders, birdhouses, and other bird-related products. Its offerings include products made of naturally rot-resistant cedar, recycled plastic, glass, and metal. After more than 35 years in operation, it is one of the most trusted bird feeder makers in the United States. WoodLink bird feeders are available for purchase online and in stores across the country.
In this review, I’ll share my hands-on experience with the Heritage Farms squirrel-resistant feeder and explain why it’s a top pick for cardinals and other songbirds. But first, here’s a quick snapshot of the product.
WoodLink Heritage Farms Squirrel-Resistant Feeder: At a Glance
Rating: 4.8/5
SPECS
Feeder type: Seed hopper
Material: Powder-coated metal
Mount type: Post-mount or hang
Capacity: 9 pounds of seed
PROS
– Locking hopper with large seed capacity holds up to 9 pounds of birdseed
– Durable powder-coated steel material resists rust and damage
– Kit includes all hardware required for both hanging and pole mounting
– Seed saver baffle minimizes spillage and wasted seeds by birds as they feed
– 1-sided feeder port arrangement provides maximum visibility of birds
CONS
– Some squirrels may learn to bypass the critter-resistant features
– Heavy weight of the full feeder requires sturdy support; hanging may not be practical
Get the WoodLink bird feeder at:
– Amazon for $69.35
– Lowe’s for $69.48
– Wayfair for $70.00
What is the WoodLink Heritage Farms Squirrel-Resistant Feeder?
WoodLink offers a variety of bird feeders and birdhouses, including models tailored for specific species and general use. The Heritage Farms squirrel-resistant feeder is a hopper-style feeder designed for seed-loving songbirds. With perches and feeding ports on just one side, this directional feeder holds about 9 pounds of birdseed. Its powder-coated steel construction ensures long-lasting weather protection, and features like a locking lid and weight-sensitive perch keep squirrels at bay. Over a month of testing, I watched cardinals, jays, finches, sparrows, doves, chickadees, titmice, towhees, and more flock to this feeder—without a single squirrel breaking through.
Our testing team named this model the best bird feeder for cardinals due to its user-friendly design, sturdy build, effective squirrel defenses, and excellent visibility. It attracted a diverse range of wild birds in my neighborhood, making it a standout addition to any feeding station.
Durable Squirrel-Resistant Construction
Some birders love wooden feeders for their natural aesthetic, while others prefer recycled plastic for its weather resistance and eco-friendly appeal. The WoodLink Heritage Farms feeder, however, takes durability to another level with its powder-coated steel construction. This material shrugs off UV damage better than plastic and stands up to squirrel claws and teeth. The feeder’s two main squirrel-proofing features—a latching lid and a weight-sensitive perch—performed flawlessly in my yard. The roof latch, operated by squeezing two tabs together, is secure yet easy to open with one hand. The perch’s adjustable counterbalance was set perfectly at the factory, allowing larger songbirds like cardinals and blue jays to feed while blocking heavier squirrels.
Added tip: If you’re dealing with particularly crafty squirrels, consider placing the feeder at least 10 feet from trees or structures they could jump from. I noticed that positioning matters just as much as the feeder’s design in keeping pests out.
Buyer’s Choice of Mounting Options
The feeder arrives fully assembled, complete with a hanger and a pole mounting bracket with pole. I chose the pole mount, which required attaching the bracket with four screws, washers, and nuts—a quick five-minute task. Setting up the pole involved digging a 12-inch hole, inserting the PVC pole sleeve, and tamping the soil around it. Total setup time was about 15 minutes, though I’ll admit my pole leans slightly because I rushed the leveling. It still holds the feeder securely.
For hanging, you’ll need to open knockouts on the hopper’s sides, insert the wire hanger, and pin it in place—all hardware is included. I didn’t test this method, but the hardware feels solid. Given the feeder’s weight when filled, a heavy-duty shepherd’s hook is a must if you go this route.
A quick note: If you’re new to bird feeder setups, pole mounting might feel more stable, especially in windy areas. I’ve had hanging feeders sway too much in storms, which can spill seed or stress the hook.
Easy to Fill
The top latch is a breeze to operate single-handedly. Once unlatched, the roof hinges up and stays open, secured at the front edge. The wide opening makes it simple to pour seed straight from the bag or use a scoop for faster filling. If the feeder’s too high to reach, no worries—you can lift it off the pole mount or remove it from the shepherd’s hook without fuss. The hanger loop stays in place, so there’s no need to dismantle anything.
Excellent Visibility
Bird feeders are about more than just feeding wildlife—I want to enjoy watching the visitors. Many feeders have ports on all sides to attract more birds, but that means you might miss some shy visitors on the opposite side. The Heritage Farms feeder’s single-sided design is a game-changer. By positioning the ports for optimal viewing, I could easily spot every bird, from bold cardinals to timid sparrows, without worrying about missing any action.
Pro tip: Place the feeder near a window or seating area with a clear line of sight. I set mine up outside my kitchen window, and it’s been a joy watching the daily bird parade while sipping coffee.
Is the WoodLink Heritage Farms Squirrel-Resistant Feeder Worth the Money?
Priced around $70, the Heritage Farms feeder isn’t the cheapest option, but it’s far from the priciest. Its large capacity, durable build, and effective squirrel-proofing make it a solid value. Most wooden or plastic feeders in the $40–$60 range lack squirrel protection and weather resistance, while many high-end squirrel-proof steel feeders cost over $100. This feeder strikes a sweet spot, offering longevity and performance at a reasonable price.
Something to consider: If you’re on a tight budget, smaller feeders might save you upfront, but they often need replacing sooner. Investing in a durable option like this one can save money (and frustration) in the long run.
Should You Buy the WoodLink Heritage Farms Squirrel-Resistant Feeder?
Before buying, think about the birds in your yard. If hummingbirds, warblers, woodpeckers, or bluebirds are your main visitors, this seed hopper might not be the best fit, as those species prefer suet, nectar, or open-platform feeders. For seed-eating songbirds, though, this feeder shines. Its combination of adaptability, ease of use, durability, and squirrel protection makes it a standout. Plus, the visibility is a huge bonus for birdwatchers and photographers. I’ve loved watching the colorful mix of birds it attracts, and I’m sure you will too.
Where to Buy the WoodLink Heritage Farms Squirrel-Resistant Feeder
Get the WoodLink bird feeder at:
– Amazon for $69.35
– Lowe’s for $69.48
– Wayfair for $70.00