This is the best smart hummingbird feeder I’ve tested, and it’s now $50 off

I’m a smart tester Bird feeders Year-round for WIRED. Although I love the variety of birds that seed feeders attract, there is something to be said for the simplicity of a hummingbird feeder. The visitors are very sensitive and it’s interesting to see them up close, and it’s nice not to have to deal with squirrels and other insects along with spilled seeds sprouting all over the yard.

My favorite hummingbird feeder I tested happens to be on sale right now, on the last day of Prime Day — a rare opportunity to get it for yourself or as a gift For $53.

(Note: Time is running out on Prime Big Deal Days!) For deals on all kinds of gear, check out our website Absolute best dealsand be sure to stay up to date with last-minute finds on our website Live blogwhich we will manage until the sale ends tonight.)

One of my least favorite parts of dealing with hummingbird feeders is having to fill, refill, and clean the tank. The Bird Buddy is the only smart hummingbird feeder I’ve tried that simply unscrews from the bottom. No need to turn it upside down and risk spills, and no need to use special brushes. The Bird Buddy app gives you an alert when it’s time to switch nectar.

Speaking of the app, Bird Buddy’s is the best in the game, with tons of easy-to-use features that can be accessed without a subscription, including 5MB photos and 2K video. (Although a subscription, at $7.50 per month or $90 per year, will unlock higher 2K Ultra resolution, AI identification, the ability to share live streams, and more.) The app isn’t perfect, as I found the times the hummingbirds visited didn’t register in Postcards, but otherwise it’s very well designed and the features are easy to find Looking for it.

I also appreciate that this feeder has a reliable solar panel on the roof, so I don’t have to worry about installing an extra panel or plugging the camera in for charging. (Note that Bird Buddy only works on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.)

This is a great time to start feeding hummingbirds to help them on their southward migration, although if you live in an area where they overwinter (like where I am on the West Coast), you’ll be able to enjoy them year-round. If you prefer to stick with a seed feeder, they are on sale too, including ours Recommended Bird Buddy Proas shown below. Happy birds! (See other gift ideas for bird-loving friends and family on our website.) Gifts for bird lovers guide.)

Photo: Kat Merck

Bird friend

Smart Bird Feeder Pro