Best Suet Feeders
Quick answer (Updated June 2026): The Stokes Select Double Suet Feeder is the best suet feeder. It holds two standard suet cakes, has a roof that sheds rain and snow, and a tail-prop support that lets woodpeckers brace naturally while feeding. If starlings are emptying your suet in hours, switch to an upside-down design that only clings-capable birds can access.
Our top pick: The Stokes Select Double Suet Feeder is the best suet feeder because its double-cake capacity means fewer trips outside in winter, the roof keeps rain off the suet and the tail-prop design lets woodpeckers brace comfortably while feeding. Across owner reviews, this model draws the most woodpecker and nuthatch visits while producing the least wasted suet compared to basic cage designs.
Our Top Pick: Stokes Select Double Suet Feeder
Holds two standard suet cakes. Metal roof sheds rain and snow. Tail-prop support for woodpeckers. Metal construction resists squirrel damage.
| Product | Capacity | Design | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stokes Select Double | 2 cakes | Cage with roof | Check Price |
| Heath Upside-Down | 1 cake | Upside-down | Check Price |
| Woodlink Cage | 1 cake | Basic cage | Check Price |
| Kingsyard Starling-Proof | 2 cakes | Caged entry | Check Price |
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Upside-Down vs. Cage Style
Upside-down suet feeders hang the cake facing the ground, so birds must cling underneath to feed. This excludes starlings, grackles and blue jays, who cannot feed while hanging upside-down. Woodpeckers, nuthatches and chickadees have no problem with this orientation. If starlings are devouring your suet in hours, switch to an upside-down design. Suet works best as part of a layered feeding station; see our bird feeder guide by type for the best companion feeders for woodpeckers and nuthatches. Pair your suet feeder with black oil sunflower in a tube feeder and you will cover the full range of clinging and perching species. Our bird seed guide covers which seed blends pair best with a suet setup.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I hang a suet feeder?
Near tree trunks or thick branches where clinging birds naturally forage. Woodpeckers feel safest feeding close to a vertical surface they can escape to. Avoid open areas.
Does suet go bad in summer?
Yes, raw suet melts above 70 F and can turn rancid. Switch to no-melt suet doughs in summer or take suet feeders down during hot months. They are primarily a cold-weather food source.
