Goodbye Traditional Bird Feeders: The Light-Up Lantern Alternative That's So Cute

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Whether you already feed birds in your backyard or are just getting started, finding the right feeder is just one important step. Seed feeders are arguably the most common types of bird feeders backyard bird enthusiasts seek because they help attract a variety of birds at once. That doesn't mean you have to settle for a basic design, though. Some bird feeders feature protective roofs, perch stands, windows, as well as smart cameras to help you record and identify feathered visitors. With the right placement and care, you might even consider products that light up at night, such as the Birdream Solar Bird Feeders.

These Birdream bird feeder lanterns feature a house-like design with white frames, clear panels, and black lids, giving them a more decorative look than traditional options. You can purchase them individually or in pairs, and each is equipped with a tray for birds to perch and eat seed. (Just keep in mind that these open trays won't do much to keep squirrels out of your bird feeder.)

As their name indicates, the feeders are equipped with solar lights that charge during daylight hours. According to details from the manufacturer, the lanterns then turn on automatically in the dark without the need for batteries or electricity. It's not stated how long the lights are designed to last. However, one reviewer wrote, "Mine were still lit after at least 10 hours, and they only went off once the sun came up." Other than that, you'll want to avoid filling the feeder to capacity with seed, as one user advises, since doing so may block the solar light's ability to charge.

Both the novelty of the Birdream feeders and their ease of use explain why this particular product has mostly 5-star reviews on Amazon. With that said, there are still some key tips you'll want to consider before investing in these cute bird feeder lanterns. First, while these feeders are solar-powered and require direct sunlight, it's important not to place them entirely out in the open so that the birds' safety isn't compromised by predators. Ideally, feeders should be placed within 12 to 15 feet of a tree or shrub. The good news is that the feeders do come with ropes on top, so you can hang them from a well-placed shepherd's hook in a sunny location with shelter nearby.

Also, while the drainage holes in the product can help reduce the risk of seed spoilage, it's still a good practice to clean your feeder often. The general rule of thumb is to clean it at least once every two weeks with soap and boiling water or a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water, as recommended by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. The Birdream solar bird feeders are made of plastic, which may make them easier to clean and dry without the risk of rust-prone metal pieces. However, as another customer points out, the plastic material could make the feeders vulnerable to rodents that might chew right through it. While preventing these nuisances can be challenging, installing pole-mounted baffles and cleaning up spilled seed may help.