Does the seed remain dry in the feeder? I recall reading somewhere that water can get into the top of this feeder.
872580
I've had the feeder for at least a couple months now, & I've seen no indication of the seed inside getting wet. Of course the seed in the tray will, if it rains. And I suppose if it rains hard enough, the seed right at the bottom of the feeder, at the openings, would a bit. But otherwise, I totally agree with the other two answers! : )
872581
If hung, the chain will provide a path for water to enter the feeder. The water then runs down the two support wires and then down into the feeder. Note that this isn't a LOT of water, but it's enough to get some of the seed damp. There is a rubber washer supplied with the feeder that's supposed to go on top of the feeder where the chain enters it; it works to keep water out, but I've found that squirrels frustrated with their inability to get to the food, will chew on the chain...and that rubber washer, which, of course, destroys it. I replaced it a few times, but the squirrels keep chewing it up. Since there really isn't THAT much water that gets into the feeder without the rubber washer (just a couple of drips down the inside), I just gave up on replacing it and periodically make sure that any wet seed is removed...the feeder is clear, so it's easy to see when that's necessary.
872582
I have never had water problem. The top cover is more than adequate for keeping seed dry.
872583
the supplied rubber washer on the top limits the amount of water that actually entry the feeder. Water has not been a problem here is rainy Atlanta. I have use various versions of this feeder for 20+ years
872584
A gasket is installed on the chain so if you push it down after filling the feeder, prevents water from entering the feeder. I love my Aurndale 360 and have it installed on a limb out of the squirrels jumping range.
409684
I'm near Seattle--also rainy. Feeder has a "screen" bottom, so there is no water accumulation. Very nice feeder and it's very tough.
961801
There is a place underneath in the center that fits a pole. Personally I thought that well wasn't deep enough to keep the feeder steady because of the weight of it when full of seed/nuts. It's supposed to work but I'm too cautious to try it on a pole.
1050319
To my knowledge, the hopper is not vented. In storms, that could lead to water ingress, clumping and deterioration of seeds.
1920008
While the seeds will get wet in the rain, the feeder has drainage holes in the bottom and the diamond mesh keeps the seeds well ventilated so the seeds stay fresher, longer.
2048458
The seeds fall through. (I had originally answered differently thinking of another feeder I have, sorry, my bad.)
371342
Yes. The little stinkers run right up the pole I have mine hanging from. It is not squirrel proof. In fact, I have one hanging from it right now, shaking the seeds out... But, it's a really nice feeder, high quality, and has held up well. Mine went through a rough winter last year, and still is in excellent condition. And it's super easy to clean.
2191195
NOT with this bird feeder. My birds LOVE it!! It's the first one emptied!! It may take awhile for them to eat out of a new feeder. I put up a feeder last year, that took the birds 3 months to *find* it!! No kidding!! Once they start eating seed out of this, you'll be out there all the time filling it up ;)
560565
It looks like there are some small holes on the bottom of the feeder tray. But, if they do go all the way through, they are already so clogged that they won't offer any significant drainage. Honestly, this thing is on the small-ish size - it holds about a quart of seed. I find that during the busy summer days the birds completely empty it every day, so there really isn't too much time for the seed to rot. That might sound like a negative comment, but I think the birds get fresh seed this way. Just remember to put it in an easily accessible location because you'll need to take it down to refill it. It looks like there are some small holes on the bottom of the feeder tray. But, if they do go all the way through, they are already so clogged that they won't offer any significant drainage. Honestly, this thing is on the small-ish size - it holds about a quart of seed. I find that during the busy summer days the birds completely empty it every day, so there really isn't too much time for the seed to rot. That might sound like a negative comment, but I think the birds get fresh seed this way. Just remember to put it in an easily accessible location because you'll need to take it down to... » Read More It looks like there are some small holes on the bottom of the feeder tray. But, if they do go all the way through, they are already so clogged that they won't offer any significant drainage. Honestly, this thing is on the small-ish size - it holds about a quart of seed. I find that during the busy summer days the birds completely empty it every day, so there really isn't too much time for the seed to rot. That might sound like a negative comment, but I think the birds get fresh seed this way. Just remember to put it in an easily accessible location because you'll need to take it down to refill it. « Show Less
1105977
There are holes in mine. Also, the tray doesn't really collect water because the water drains from around the tray due to the way it's constructed. However, it you have a heavy rain, and particularly if it's blowing, then that little roof isn't enough to keep the seed dry.
2205396
We live in Florida, when it rains the seed in the four holes gets wet. The next day I take a bamboo chop stick and clean out the four holes and this seems to solve the problem. PS: The birds do not care if the seed is wet, however if not cleaned out it may sour and make the birds sick.
527277
Yes, they seem to have no problems accessing the seeds. Chickadees use it the most. Although, at this time of year the Feeder is not used as much as in the colder weather. So far not a single squirrel has found a way in - believe me, they have tried!!!!!!!!
620986
I've owned this finch feeder for about a month now. As a finch feeder, it's designed specifically for Nyger (thistle) seed, so the port openings are very small (I'd say, less than half the size of a sunflower seed). If you actually use a funnel to prevent spillage during filling, there certainly is no spillage of seed once it's hanging. And the squirrels don't even attempt to get into it--and we have a lot of squirrels.
2226887
The dried fruit chunks I've seen are too big and would block the divider that feeds into the individual feeding ports. I once had some song bird mix that had dried fruit pieces in it and that is exactly what happened, those dried fruit pieces eventually got stuck in the divider and blocked seed falling down into the seed cups.
640710
I've had no problems with the birds coming right back after a rain. The way it's designed most of the water stays away from the seed.
1128478
When you clean it out (and taking it apart to clean out is easy) you may find some seed caked on top of the feeding openings. But that's it. The majority of the seed stays dry in its plastic box.
2137685
Hello Bobbie...the answer to your question is "no." These little birds are having no trouble reaching the seeds. The only trouble they will sometimes have is waiting their turn as this feeder is very popular. I recommend purchasing two of these feeders. Happy Birding.