you’ve probably seen a smart bird feeder or know someone who has one. Updated March 2026: I’ve added the Minixtec smart feeder to Others Tested, as well as specs tables to each pick and long-term testing notes, and a new section on what to look for when shopping for a smart feeder. Best OverallThis cheery blue- or yellow-roofed feeder, from security company Netvue, is the first smart feeder WIRED tested, back in 2022. Not all bundles come with a solar panel, but you can buy it separately. Unlike with other feeders, the solar panel is not built in and will have to be mounted and connected separately with the included 9.8-foot charging cable.