Eastern bluebirds are widespread songbirds native to North America. They are commonly found in open habitats like fields, meadows, pastures, parks, and gardens. Bluebirds are cavity nesters and rely on holes in trees or nest boxes to raise their young. They are popular birds at backyard feeders due to their bright blue plumage and melodious song. But do Eastern bluebirds actually visit bird feeders?
Do Eastern Bluebirds Eat Birdseed?
Eastern bluebirds are omnivores and get most of their nutrition from insects and spiders. However, they do supplement their diet with seeds and berries. Bluebirds will sometimes visit platform feeders with large perches to pick out nutritious tidbits. They prefer bigger seeds like shelled peanuts, sunflower seeds, raisins, currents, mealworms, and freeze-dried insects. They also like suet feeders.
Best Bird Feeders to Attract Bluebirds
Here are some tips for the best feeders to provide if you want to attract Eastern bluebirds:
- Platform feeders – Open tray-style feeders allow easy access to seeds for bluebirds.
- Hopper or house feeders – These protect seeds from the elements but allow bluebirds to perch and eat.
- Suet feeders – Suet is enjoyed by bluebirds and provides fat and protein.
- Mealworm feeders – Live or dried mealworms are favorite bluebird treats.
- Fruit feeders – Halved oranges, grapes, raisins or other fruits will entice bluebirds.
Focus on large perching areas, big seeds, and live mealworms. Avoid tubes or feeders with small perches.
Bluebird Behavior at Bird Feeders
Here are some things to know about bluebird behavior when they visit feeders:
They are Shy
Eastern bluebirds are relatively shy compared to other backyard birds. They may avoid feeders in busy settings or wait until other more assertive birds leave.
They Tend to Feed Early/Late
Bluebirds are most active in the early morning and evening hours. They prefer to visit feeders first thing in the morning when activity is minimal.
They May Forage Quickly
At feeders, bluebirds will hop on, grab a seed or two, then fly off to eat it in a safer spot. Their feeding bouts at feeders are brief.
They Like High Perches
Eastern bluebirds feel more secure landing on feeders with elevated perches that give them a good vantage point to watch for danger.
They are Terrestrial Feeders
Bluebirds naturally forage on the ground for insects and seeds. Platform or tray-style feeders can mimic their ground feeding behavior.
Types of Food to Offer
Here are some of the top foods that will attract bluebirds to your feeders:
Mealworms
Mealworms are the #1 food to offer bluebirds. You can buy live mealworms or dried mealworms and serve them in a specific mealworm feeder.
Chopped Nuts
Chopped peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and other nuts are enjoyed by bluebirds. Look for nut pieces instead of whole nuts.
Sunflower Seeds
Black oil sunflower seeds are a favorite of bluebirds. Striped sunflower seeds are too difficult for them to crack open.
Dried Fruit
Halved raisins, currants, chopped apples, or cranberries will entice bluebirds.
Suet Nuggets
Suet is relished by bluebirds in the winter when insects are scarce. Look for insect-enriched suet blends.
Live Insects
If you can offer live insects like mealworms, crickets, or beetles, bluebirds will be very interested. However, a steady diet of live insects is not necessary.
Food | Presentations Bluebirds Like |
---|---|
Mealworms | Live or dried in specialty mealworm feeders |
Chopped nuts | Platform feeders, tray feeders, or hopper feeders |
Sunflower seeds | Hull-less or black oil in hopper, tube, or platform feeders |
Dried fruit | Platform or fruit feeders |
Suet | Suet feeders or cages |
Live insects | Open containers holding mealworms, crickets, etc. |
Meeting Habitat Needs
In addition to food, you need to meet the habitat preferences of bluebirds to attract them to your yard:
Nest Boxes
Offering properly constructed nest boxes is the #1 way to attract breeding bluebirds. They readily use artificial cavities.
Open Foraging Space
Bluebirds want short grass and open ground with scattered low perches where they can easily spot insects.
Low Shrubs and Saplings
Berries and shelter are provided by native plants like dogwood, hawthorn, elderberry, holly, and juniper.
Avoid Crowded Feeders
Bluebirds are intimidated by high bird traffic areas. Space feeders widely and use multiple feeder types to reduce competition.
Water Source
A birdbath, fountain, or garden pond gives bluebirds a place to drink and bathe. Position water sources in the open.
By offering suitable habitat, shelter, water and the right kinds of foods, you can turn your yard into a haven for Eastern bluebirds.
Conclusion
Eastern bluebirds are delightful songbirds that can occasionally be attracted to feeders. While not primarily seed eaters, they will supplement their diet with nutritious seeds, nuts, dried fruit, suet, and mealworms. Bluebirds prefer large open platform feeders where they can perch and watch for danger. Providing nest boxes, landscaping with native fruiting shrubs, and offering open foraging space are also key to attracting bluebirds. With a little effort, you can entice these colorful birds to visit your feeders more often. Watching the bright blue plumage and listening to the melodious songs of Eastern bluebirds will brighten any backyard.