Birdbuddy Nook: Common issues and troubleshooting

Solar roof detached from housing

If you have a Birdbuddy Nook solar and the metal hanger was resting only on the solar roof, your solar roof might have detached. 

First, check that everything is still in one piece.
The green solar roof cable cover might have fallen off; ensure you locate it, as it can help protect the solar roof cable:

If something broke or a piece is missing, reach out to us in the chat at the bottom right corner and request a replacement part.

Once you ensure all your feeder parts are in order, snap the solar roof back into place; make sure the cable from the solar roof goes through the opening at the back panel, so the roof can snap firmly into place.

When reattaching the hanger, ensure it fits below both the solar roof and the housing roof, next to or above the solar roof cable at the back:

This is the correct way to insert the metal hanger at the front of the feeder:

Solar roof won't snap into place

If you're having issues snapping the solar roof onto the housing roof, the main cause could be the solar roof cable placement.

1. Detach the solar roof and inspect the inside: There is a pathway through which the cable needs to be guided so it can be seated on top of the roof of the housing. 
    

   

2. Once you have guided the cable through the correct pathway, inspect the cable connection to the battery insert inside the housing by unscrewing the green cap. Once you've confirmed it is seated properly, screw the USB-C port cover back.
3. Now the solar roof should snap firmly to the main roof housing.

You can also watch our solar roof assembly video, showcasing how you can swap the side where the solar panel is facing to help you guide the cable through the correct pathway and opening:

If the solar roof still doesn’t snap into place, there may be an issue with the roof itself. Please take a few clear photos of the clips that secure the solar roof to the feeder’s roof, as they may be damaged or misshapen. Then, start a chat using the chat icon in the bottom-right corner and share the photos so we can review your request for a replacement part.

Solar roof not charging

If the solar roof isn't charging, the most likely cause could be that the cable is not firmly attached to the battery insert.

1. Open the housing by pressing the tabs on the side panel to reveal the battery insert.
2. Ensure you have removed any seeds from the battery insert area.

3. Unscrew the green cap covering the solar roof cable and USB-C port on the battery insert.

   

4. Remove the solar roof cable and reinsert it. Make sure it snaps firmly into the USB-C port.
5. If you have some sunlight available, you can test the solar roof right away:
   1. Once reattached, keep the cap open and expose the solar panel to direct sunlight

   2. There is an LED light next to the USB-C port which should light up when the solar roof is providing a charge.

      

   3. If you see a light, that is a great sign already! 
   4. If not, set the feeder back up and give it a day or two. If the issue persists, reach out to us by starting a chat in the bottom right corner.

You can also reference this video on how to access the battery insert and unscrew the cover:

Solar roof cable damage

If you noticed any damage on the solar roof cable, please reach out to us in the chat to request a replacement and attach photos of the damage, so our support team can help you out.

Camera insertion issue (no LED)

If you are having trouble inserting the camera upon your first use, you can give the camera a couple of twists to ensure a smoother insertion.

The lines next to the camera lens need to be either completely horizontal or vertical to ensure a secure connection.

You can reference this video on how to insert the camera:

If you don't see any LED response upon inserting the camera, even after twisting the camera a couple of times and feeling it click into place, first ensure the battery insert is fully charged.

Here's how to charge the battery insert: we recommend using the included USB-C to USB-C cable and charging with a low-wattage power source (can be a laptop, a power bank, or a low-wattage charging brick).

You should see the LED light next to the USB-C port on the battery insert turn green once the camera is fully charged.
This will ensure the battery isn't the cause of the camera not lighting up.

Remove and reinsert the camera once you've ensured the battery insert is fully charged, and look out for a green LED light (or blinking blue if you are setting up your Birdbuddy Nook).

If there is still no LED light to be seen and/or the camera does not seat properly in the front panel area, please reach out to us via chat and request an agent. If possible, record a video and upload it to Google Drive or iCloud and share the link with us (ensure you grant anyone with the link access). 
We'll take a closer look at your camera and check if you'll need a replacement.

Detached perch

The Birdbuddy Nook comes with a detachable green perch and a white clip-on perch.

If either of those has detached, or you're having issues reattaching them, first remove the affected perch. Then, clean the area to ensure no debris is blocking the parts from connecting. Inspect the green perch and the clip-on perch for any damage or broken parts.

Once you have inspected the feeder and the perches, reattach both by following this video:

If the issue persists, or you noticed any damaged parts, please reach out to is in the chat on the bottom right corner and request replacement parts. If possible, share photos of the damage as well.