How the AI Works

Feeder Rater uses Google Gemini to evaluate your bird feeder setup. Here's exactly what happens when you tap Analyze, and what the AI looks for.

What happens when you analyze

1

Photo is resized on-device

Before anything is sent, your photo is compressed on your device. This keeps uploads fast and reduces data usage without affecting analysis quality.

2

Image is sent to the Feeder Rater API

The resized photo is uploaded to our server over an encrypted connection, authenticated with your account. Your original photo is never stored uncompressed.

3

Gemini analyzes the image

Google Gemini receives the photo and a structured prompt asking it to evaluate the feeder setup across all 10 factors. It returns a score (0–10) and a short explanation for each.

4

Results are saved to your history

The analysis, photo, scores, and recommendations are stored securely in your account so you can track progress over time.

5

You see a full breakdown

The app displays an overall score, per-factor scores, what's working well, areas to improve, and likely bird species your setup could attract.

The 10 scoring factors

Each factor is scored 0–10. The overall score is a weighted average.

01

Location

Is the feeder placed where birds will feel safe approaching it? The AI looks for clear sightlines, distance from windows (to prevent collisions), and proximity to natural cover like shrubs or trees where birds can perch before feeding.

02

Predator Safety

Can cats, squirrels, or other predators easily reach the feeder? The AI evaluates whether the feeder is mounted on a baffle-equipped pole, hung from a wire, or otherwise protected. Feeders accessible to predators deter birds.

03

Weather Protection

Is the feeder shielded from rain, wind, and direct sun? Exposed feeders let seed get wet and spoil quickly. The AI looks for overhanging roofs, covers, or natural shelter that keeps food dry and accessible year-round.

04

Food Quality

Does the feeder appear to contain appropriate, high-quality seed? The AI assesses whether the seed looks fresh and dry (no clumping or mold), and whether the feeder type suits the food being offered.

05

Water Access

Is clean water visible nearby for drinking and bathing? A bird bath or water dish near the feeder significantly increases the number of species that will visit. The AI notes the presence, placement, and apparent condition of any water source.

06

Cleanliness

Does the feeder and surrounding area look well-maintained? The AI checks for visible seed debris, droppings, or mold on or around the feeder. A dirty feeder spreads disease between birds and will cause them to stop visiting.

07

Native Plants

Are native plants, shrubs, or trees visible in the surrounding area? Native plants provide natural food sources, nesting spots, and perches. Feeders embedded in natural habitat attract a much wider variety of species than those in bare yards.

08

Feeder Type

Is the feeder design well-suited to attracting a range of birds? Different feeder types attract different species — tube feeders for finches, platform feeders for ground-feeding birds, suet cages for woodpeckers. The AI evaluates diversity and appropriateness.

09

Durability

Does the feeder look structurally sound and weather-resistant? The AI assesses visible signs of wear, cracks, or deterioration. A sturdy feeder maintains consistent access for birds and reduces the risk of seed spillage that attracts pests.

10

Visibility

Is the feeder easy for birds to spot from a distance? Bright colors, open surroundings, and elevated placement all help birds locate feeders quickly. The AI looks at whether the feeder stands out visually in its environment.