Audubon Squirrel Proof Caged Tube Feeder Review 2026

If you love watching songbirds visit your backyard, you probably hate watching squirrels steal all the seed. The Audubon Squirrel Proof Caged Tube Feeder promises to solve that exact problem. It wraps a standard tube feeder inside a sturdy metal cage. Small birds get in. Squirrels stay out.

But does it actually work? Is the build quality good enough to survive a full season outdoors? And how does it stack up against pricier options from Brome or Perky-Pet?

In this detailed review, we break down every feature of the Audubon Caged Tube Feeder. We cover its design, seed capacity, squirrel resistance, durability, ease of cleaning, and much more.

Key Takeaways:

• The cage works well against gray squirrels. The 1.5 inch grid openings are small enough to block adult gray squirrels and large bully birds like grackles and starlings. However, smaller red squirrels may still squeeze through in some cases.
• It holds about 1.25 lbs of mixed seed. This is a modest capacity. You will need to refill it more often than larger feeders, but the compact size keeps it lightweight and easy to hang from most hooks and branches.
• The build uses ABS plastic and powder coated steel. The tube is durable ABS plastic with four seed ports. The outer cage is powder coated steel with a forest green finish that blends into garden settings.
• Small songbirds love it. Chickadees, finches, nuthatches, and titmice can easily pass through the cage openings to reach the seed ports. The design gives these smaller species a safe place to eat.
• It comes fully assembled and ready to hang. There is no complicated setup. You take it out of the box, fill it with seed, and hang it. A built in hanging loop makes installation quick.
• Price is budget friendly. Compared to premium squirrel proof feeders that cost $40 to $130, the Audubon Caged Tube Feeder sits at a very affordable price point. This makes it a solid entry level option for casual birders.

Last update on 2026-07-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

Audubon Squirrel Proof Caged Tube Feeder: Product Overview

The Audubon Squirrel Proof Caged Tube Feeder is made by Woodlink, a company known for producing affordable bird feeding products under the Audubon brand. The model number is NATUBE3. It measures approximately 9 inches long, 9 inches wide, and 15.5 inches tall.

The feeder has a straightforward design. A clear ABS plastic tube sits at the center. This tube has four seed ports. Each port has a small perch for birds to land on and eat.

Surrounding the tube is a powder coated steel cage. The cage features a 1.5 inch grid pattern. This grid allows small songbirds to pass through and reach the seed ports. Larger birds and squirrels cannot fit through the openings.

The entire unit has a forest green finish. This color blends well with trees and garden foliage. It looks clean and simple in any backyard setting.

A metal hanging loop at the top makes it easy to hang from a shepherd’s hook, tree branch, or deck hanger. The feeder weighs about 2 lbs when empty, so most standard hooks can support it without any issues.

How Does the Cage Design Keep Squirrels Out?

The main selling point of this feeder is its squirrel resistant cage. The cage surrounds the entire tube feeder. There is a gap between the cage and the tube itself. This gap is critical.

Squirrels can climb onto the outside of the cage. But the 1.5 inch square openings are too small for an adult gray squirrel to squeeze through. Since the squirrel cannot reach the seed ports, it usually gives up and moves on.

Small birds like chickadees, wrens, and goldfinches fly right through the cage grid. They perch on the seed ports and eat without any trouble. The cage actually gives them extra protection from predators while they feed.

It is important to note that this feeder is labeled “squirrel resistant” rather than “squirrel proof” in some listings. There is a reason for that. Smaller red squirrels or juvenile gray squirrels may still get through the grid in rare cases. Some buyers have reported this. Placement also matters. If you hang the feeder too close to a tree trunk or fence, squirrels can cling to the cage and chew on the plastic tube over time.

For the best results, hang this feeder at least 5 feet off the ground and 10 feet away from any jumping off point like a tree branch or railing.

Seed Capacity and Compatible Seed Types

The Audubon Caged Tube Feeder holds approximately 1.25 lbs of mixed seed. Some product listings note a capacity of about 0.85 quarts. Either way, this is a small to medium capacity feeder.

This size works well for casual bird watchers who want a single feeder in a small garden. If you have a large number of birds visiting daily, you will need to refill it every two to three days.

The feeder works best with black oil sunflower seeds and standard mixed wild bird seed. The four seed ports dispense seed as birds pick at them. The clear tube lets you see the seed level at a glance, so you always know when it is time for a refill.

Avoid using very fine seed like nyjer (thistle) in this feeder. The ports are sized for medium seed blends. Fine seed can spill out or clog the ports. If you want to attract goldfinches with nyjer seed, a dedicated thistle feeder is a better choice.

The twist off lid on top makes refilling simple. You lift the cage top, unscrew the tube cap, pour in the seed, and close everything back up. The whole process takes about 30 seconds.

Top 3 Alternatives for Audubon Squirrel Proof Caged Tube Feeder

Squirrel Buster Plus Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder

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Woodlink Absolute II Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder

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Perky Pet Squirrel Be Gone Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder

Last update on 2026-07-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

Build Quality and Materials

The Audubon Caged Tube Feeder uses two main materials. The inner tube is made from ABS plastic. This is a strong, lightweight plastic that resists cracking in moderate weather conditions. It holds up reasonably well across seasons.

The outer cage is powder coated steel. The coating adds a layer of rust resistance and gives the feeder its green color. This combination of metal and plastic keeps the feeder affordable while still offering decent outdoor durability.

That said, this is not a premium feeder. After a year or two of constant outdoor exposure, some users report the powder coating can chip or fade. Rust may appear at the chip points, especially in humid or rainy climates. The plastic tube can also yellow slightly over time with sun exposure.

For the price, the build quality is fair. It will easily last one to two full seasons with minimal care. If you bring it indoors during harsh winter storms or heavy snow, you can extend its life even further.

The metal cage is sturdy enough to resist squirrel chewing. However, the plastic tube is the weak point. A determined squirrel that manages to press against the tube through the cage bars might leave teeth marks over time.

Ease of Setup and Installation

One of the best things about this feeder is how easy it is to set up. It arrives fully assembled. You do not need any tools. You do not need to read a complicated instruction manual.

Just open the box, fill the tube with seed, and hang it. The metal loop at the top fits standard shepherd’s hooks, S hooks, and branch hangers. You can have this feeder up and running within five minutes of opening the package.

The lightweight design also helps. At roughly 2 lbs empty, you can hang it from thin branches without worrying about the weight pulling them down. Even when fully loaded with seed, the total weight stays under 3.5 lbs.

If you want to mount it on a pole, you will need a separate hook or adapter. The feeder does not come with a pole mounting system. But any standard bird feeder pole with a hook attachment will work perfectly.

Placement tip: Hang the feeder near shrubs or low trees. This gives birds a quick escape route from hawks and other predators. But keep the feeder far enough from branches that squirrels cannot jump onto it.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping your bird feeder clean is essential for bird health. Dirty feeders can spread diseases like salmonella and avian conjunctivitis among bird populations. The Audubon Caged Tube Feeder is reasonably easy to clean, but not the easiest on the market.

The top of the cage lifts off. Then you unscrew the tube cap to access the inside. You can rinse the tube with warm water and a mild soap solution. A bottle brush helps scrub the inside walls of the tube and the seed ports.

The cage itself can be wiped down with a damp cloth or sprayed with a hose. The powder coated finish resists water, so a quick rinse is usually enough to remove stuck seed and bird droppings.

Clean your feeder at least once every two weeks. During wet or humid weather, clean it more often. Mold can grow inside the tube if damp seed sits for too long. Always let all parts dry completely before refilling with fresh seed.

One minor complaint from users is that the cage does not detach completely from the tube base on some versions. This can make deep cleaning slightly awkward. But with a good bottle brush and some patience, you can get it done.

What Birds Does This Feeder Attract?

The caged design of this feeder makes it a magnet for small songbirds. These are the birds that can fit through the 1.5 inch grid openings with ease.

Common visitors include black capped chickadees, house finches, goldfinches, tufted titmice, white breasted nuthatches, Carolina wrens, and downy woodpeckers. These species are small enough to slip through the cage and reach the seed ports.

Larger birds like blue jays, grackles, and starlings are blocked by the cage. This is actually a big benefit. These larger species tend to dominate open feeders and scare away smaller birds. The cage gives your songbirds a private, safe dining area.

Cardinals are a borderline case. Some smaller cardinals can squeeze through the cage openings, while larger individuals cannot. If attracting cardinals is your primary goal, a feeder with slightly wider cage spacing or no cage at all may be a better fit.

The mix of seed you use also affects which birds visit. Black oil sunflower seeds attract the widest variety of songbird species. A standard wild bird seed mix brings in a good range of visitors too.

Pros of the Audubon Squirrel Proof Caged Tube Feeder

Last update on 2026-07-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

There are several clear strengths with this feeder. First, the price point is excellent. It costs a fraction of what premium squirrel proof feeders charge. For budget conscious bird watchers, this is a major plus.

Second, the cage effectively blocks gray squirrels and large bully birds. Your chickadees and finches can eat in peace without competing with grackles or getting chased by squirrels.

Third, the feeder is lightweight, compact, and easy to hang. It works on almost any hook or branch. You do not need a heavy duty pole system or special mounting hardware.

Fourth, it comes fully assembled. There is zero setup required beyond filling it with seed. This makes it a great gift for someone new to backyard birding.

Fifth, the clear tube lets you monitor seed levels without opening the feeder. You can tell at a glance if it is time for a refill.

Finally, the forest green color is attractive and blends into most garden environments. It does not look like an eyesore hanging from a tree.

Cons of the Audubon Squirrel Proof Caged Tube Feeder

No feeder is perfect, and this one has some downsides. The seed capacity of 1.25 lbs is relatively small. If you have a busy feeder station, you will find yourself refilling it frequently. Larger feeders from Brome or Woodlink hold 4 to 12 lbs of seed.

The ABS plastic tube is not as tough as polycarbonate or metal. Over time, sun exposure can cause yellowing. A determined squirrel pressing through the cage may scratch or damage the plastic.

Small red squirrels can sometimes get through the cage. The 1.5 inch grid stops gray squirrels effectively, but smaller species can be a problem in certain regions.

The powder coating on the cage may chip after extended outdoor use. Once the coating chips, rust can start to form. This is common with feeders in this price range, but it is worth noting.

Cleaning is not quite as simple as some competitors. Feeders with twist apart tube designs or removable bases are easier to scrub thoroughly. This feeder requires a bit more effort to reach every surface inside.

Lastly, the feeder does not include a pole or mounting hardware. You need to supply your own hook or shepherd’s hook for hanging.

How Does It Compare to the Squirrel Buster Plus?

The Brome Squirrel Buster Plus is one of the most popular squirrel proof feeders on the market. It uses a weight activated shroud that slides down to close off the seed ports when a squirrel climbs on. It holds 5.1 lbs of seed, has six feeding ports, and comes with a lifetime warranty against squirrel damage.

The Audubon Caged Tube Feeder takes a different approach. Instead of a mechanical weight system, it uses a passive cage barrier. There are no moving parts. The cage simply blocks larger animals from reaching the seed.

In terms of squirrel resistance, the Squirrel Buster Plus is more effective. Its weight mechanism works against all squirrel species, not just gray squirrels. The Audubon cage can struggle with smaller red squirrels.

In terms of capacity, the Squirrel Buster Plus wins by a wide margin. It holds over four times more seed.

In terms of price, the Audubon feeder wins easily. It costs a fraction of the Squirrel Buster Plus. If your budget is tight and you mainly deal with gray squirrels, the Audubon feeder is a smart, affordable choice.

Both feeders attract small songbirds. The Squirrel Buster Plus also accommodates cardinals thanks to its optional cardinal ring. The Audubon cage may block some cardinals due to the grid size.

Who Should Buy This Feeder?

This feeder is ideal for a specific type of buyer. If you are new to backyard birding and want an affordable way to start, this is a great entry point. It works out of the box with no assembly or tools required.

If you live in an area with gray squirrels and want basic squirrel protection without spending a lot, this feeder delivers good value. It will keep the most common squirrel species away from your seed.

If you have a small yard or balcony, the compact size is a real advantage. It does not take up much space and hangs from lightweight hooks easily.

Budget shoppers will appreciate the low price. You can buy two or three of these for the cost of one premium feeder. Spreading several feeders around your yard can attract more birds to different spots.

However, if you face aggressive red squirrels, need large seed capacity, or want a feeder with a long manufacturer warranty, you may want to invest in a higher end option like the Squirrel Buster Plus or the Woodlink Absolute II.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Feeder

A few simple strategies can improve your experience with this feeder. First, use high quality seed. Cheap seed mixes with lots of filler like milo and wheat tend to attract fewer desirable birds. A blend heavy on black oil sunflower seeds works best.

Second, position the feeder correctly. Hang it at least 5 feet above the ground. Keep it at least 10 feet from fences, tree trunks, and rooftops. Squirrels can jump impressive distances, and proper placement reduces their chances of reaching the cage.

Third, add a squirrel baffle. A cone shaped baffle on the hook or pole below the feeder adds another layer of protection. The cage is your first defense. The baffle is your second.

Fourth, rotate your seed types through the seasons. During winter, sunflower seeds and safflower seeds provide high energy for birds. In spring and summer, a lighter mix can work well alongside natural food sources.

Fifth, keep the area below the feeder clean. Fallen seed on the ground attracts rodents and can lead to mold growth. Rake up spilled seed regularly.

These small steps help you attract more birds, keep squirrels away, and maintain a healthier feeding station all year long.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Audubon Squirrel Proof Caged Tube Feeder?

The Audubon Squirrel Proof Caged Tube Feeder is a solid budget option for backyard birders. It does what it promises at a fair price. The cage blocks gray squirrels and large bully birds. Small songbirds get a safe space to eat. Setup takes minutes.

It is not perfect. The small capacity means frequent refills. The plastic tube is not the toughest material. Red squirrels might still get through. And the powder coating can degrade over time.

But for the price, it is hard to complain. This feeder offers real squirrel resistance without the $50 to $130 price tag of premium alternatives. If you want a simple, affordable, and effective caged tube feeder for your garden, this one earns a recommendation.

Our rating: 4 out of 5 stars. It loses a point for limited capacity and the red squirrel issue, but it wins on value, simplicity, and design.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Audubon Caged Tube Feeder really keep squirrels out?

Yes, it keeps adult gray squirrels out effectively. The 1.5 inch cage grid is too small for them to pass through. However, smaller red squirrels or very young gray squirrels may still squeeze through in some cases. Proper hanging placement at least 10 feet from jumping points makes the cage even more effective.

What type of bird seed should I use in this feeder?

Black oil sunflower seeds work best. You can also use a standard wild bird seed mix. Avoid very fine seeds like nyjer or thistle, as they can clog the ports or spill out. Safflower seed is another good option that squirrels tend to dislike.

How often do I need to refill this feeder?

With a capacity of about 1.25 lbs, expect to refill it every two to four days depending on how many birds visit your yard. Busy feeding stations may require daily refills during peak seasons like winter and early spring.

Can cardinals use this feeder?

Some smaller cardinals can fit through the 1.5 inch cage openings, but larger cardinals may struggle. If attracting cardinals is a top priority, consider a feeder with wider cage openings or an open platform feeder paired with a squirrel baffle.

How do I clean the Audubon Caged Tube Feeder?

Remove the cage top and unscrew the tube cap. Wash the tube with warm soapy water and scrub the inside with a bottle brush. Rinse the cage with a hose. Let all parts dry completely before refilling. Clean the feeder at least every two weeks.

Is this feeder weather resistant?

The powder coated steel cage resists rust, and the ABS plastic tube handles moderate weather well. However, extreme heat can cause the plastic to yellow over time, and the powder coating may chip after extended exposure. Bringing the feeder indoors during severe storms can extend its lifespan.

Does this feeder come with a pole or hanging hook?

No, the feeder does not include a pole or hanging hardware. It has a built in metal loop at the top for hanging. You will need to supply your own shepherd’s hook, S hook, tree branch hanger, or deck mounted hook.