Feeder geometry problem?

When the bottom of my cage-type feeder rusted out and dropped the plastic seed tube onto the ground, I wanted something a bit more decorative to replace it. The Sonoma feeder is prettier (on the left in photo) than the old one, but the birds were not patronizing it. I think the problem is that the mesh of the inner tube that holds the seed is so close to the size of the black oil sunflower seeds and the tube is so much smaller than the outer cage that there is a problem with the birds being able to reach and grasp the seeds easily. Part of the problem may be the angle of the birds' bills in trying to reach through the screen. A coarser mesh would allow too much seed to fall out, but will try to get DH to modify it or put in a plastic tube with separate ports, like the old one. We put the old one back up (with temporary fix to the base) and at least the birds are happier. Anybody else had this problem or have a solution?

Sunfarm, I think you're right about your new feeder. The seeds are much easier for the birds to access in your old one. I have two that look just like yours and they have lasted a long time despite their popularity with the squirrels. I think the best solution is to stick with what works.

Hmmm, am wondering if DH could just take the inner cage wire, snip a single strand, tweak it inward and leave a little larger hole for them to feed from. You could open more of them than the plastic cage/holder allows with the limited number of openings and enjoy larger numbers at the feeder at a time. They would learn, over time, that there are holes available and where they are. These guys are smart!

Alternatively, it looks like you might even be able to trim the top of that plastic seed carrier and slip it inside, if there's a way to open the cage up fully.

It is a very pretty little feeder.

Linda

Nah, it looks to be too large, as I took a gander at it again. Apologies.

Linda

Thanks for your suggestions. I suspect part of the geometry problem is the distance between the outer cage and the seed tube. It would be easy enough to enlarge some of the openings to see if that makes a difference. The heights of the two feeders are quite different, though DH has thought about using two of the three sections of plastic tube in the new feeder. The bottom section is cracked and kind of mangy already.

Aaah, yes, I can see that difference and your observation sure makes sense, doesn't it? Hmmm, so even enlarging the seed-feeders would likely make little difference. You can see in the photo where the one bird has it's head stuck inside all the way to the seeds, if s/he had shoulders s/he'd be in big trouble if it was any further in, LOL. So it's likely a struggle to get to that seed in the smaller feeder. You'd think the maker would have known better for a feeder designed to feed such small gugals, wouldn't you?

You might be able to scrub the mange off and simply reinforce the bottom with a good heavy sealing tape, mightn't you? I really want you to enjoy the new feeder, sunfarm . And, hey, keep that DH of yours close . . . he sounds like a keeper!

Warmly,
Linda in cold and wet Central California

DH is a keeper, indeed. The problem is that his "honeydew" list is so long it will be several months before the feeder modification tasks rise to the top. The new feeder is so cute (and was so expensive!) that I hope it can be modified and can replace the rusty one.