Ever wondered what kind of birds Snow White was singing “A Smile and a Song” to? Or did you have an initial guess and tried associating it with its color? If you though bluebirds, then you’re right! These animated blue-colored birds are either a western or an eastern type of bird species with genus Sialia. They are omnivores and naturally live in holes or cavities in trees. These tenants make use of their abode as a laying, feeding, and resting place.
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Birdwatchers or enthusiasts would typically use the best bird feeder to supply the nutritional needs of these birds. There are different boxes or bluebird feeders in the market offering their ‘best’ designs. But what really is the best bluebird feeder for these avian friends? The designs for the bluebird feeders should not only function as a basic mealworm and water container. It must also be able to survive different seasons as most bluebirds are year-round residents. Here are my top choices for bluebird feeders, whether you are feeding eastern or western bluebirds.
6 Best Bluebird Feeders Comparison
Top 12 Best Bluebird Feeder Reviews
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1. Kettle Moraine Cedar Bluebird Mealworm Feeder
Mealworms are bluebirds’ favorite food during summer and spring months. But guess what? That’s also the favorite of other bird species. So if you’d like to keep bigger birds away from your bluebird feeders, it is necessary to have a mealworm feeder that caters just to the needs and size of bluebirds.
This Kettle Moraine bluebird mealworm feeder is one of the best examples of such a bluebird feeder. This bluebird feeder has two holes that are an inch and a half or so in size that can fit only bluebirds. It is made of cedar wood which is excellent for all seasons, which is perfect since some bluebirds tend to stay.
You can see that this bluebird mealworm feeder is very well made, from the smoothness of the wood’s edges and surfaces, to the stainless steel screws that wouldn’t rust even when exposed to rain and sun. I can attest to that after using it for more than a year. What I love most about this feeder is being able to easily place food inside because of the hinged roof.
It’s a hanging bluebird mealworm feeder so it’s easy to remove for refilling food or for transferring to a different location, if necessary.
However, cleaning the side of this bluebird mealworm bird feeder where the roof is non-movable can be a bit of a hassle since you have to remove screws first. Also, sometimes bluebirds would get trapped inside or would have no idea on how to get out. A few times, I had to open the Plexiglass from the removable side in order to let them out.
I figured it could be due to the size of the holes – they are small enough to let the bluebirds in and out, but not big enough to let them perch a bit before flying out. A good solution would be to add a dowel inside, or at least place a branch they could perch on first, allowing them to fly out easily.
Pros:
- High quality construction
- Attracts bluebirds and dispels larger birds
- Comes with instructions on how to attract bluebirds using the feeder, which is great for beginners
Cons:
- Sometimes confuses bluebirds, causing them to get trapped inside
- Made in the USA
- Soild Cedar and Stainless Steel Screw Construction - No cheap staples or brads
- Stainless Steel Hanging Cable
- Hinged Roof for Easy Filling
- Plexi glass viewing windows
2. Stokes Select 38200 Bird Feeder
Some of the best bluebird mealworm feeders are actually those with the simplest design, and that is what Stokes Select model 38200 is – simple. This bird mealworm feeder is made of two components – the hook with perch, and the feeding tray.
The metal hanger is curved to make it stable even when bird species perch on the metal rods and the tray. It is powder coated with black to prevent rusting. The blue-coloured feeder tray is made of thick polycarbonate which doesn’t break even if it accidentally falls to the ground. Although the only time it will fall to the ground would be due to mishandling since it sits firmly in its place when the feeder is hung.
I like that it has drainage holes on the sides so that mealworms are kept dry, and if I ever put suet bits, they wouldn’t be swimming in water in case rain comes in. It drains water and dries out pretty quickly.
However, you can consider its biggest advantage to also be its biggest disadvantage – it’s very open and attractive. This modern bird feeder can be used for almost any type of bird species, which is a great thing. But it can also be a bad thing if you are trying to attract only a specific type of bird species, like bluebirds for example.
If you place mealworms here, I guarantee you they will be gone long before bluebirds suspect there’s some food left for them. Mealworms are everyone’s favorite. You can also use suet nuggets, but aside from bluebirds, you will also be attracting chickadees and other thrushes.
The good thing though is that once bluebirds get attracted to it, they would keep coming back to this feeder. Pictures look quite nice with the bluebirds perched and the blue of the tray adding up to the color.
Pros:
- Made sturdy metal hook and tough polycarbonate tray
- Very easy to install, clean and maintain
Cons:
- Almost all birds are attracted to it (the type of birds just depend on the food), even the large ones
- SIMPLE AND SLEEK DESIGN: Stokes designed this birdfeeder to attract a wide variety of birds depending on what you chose to feed, while also...
- HIGHEST QUALITY FEEDER IN ITS CATEGORY: The durable tray is made from polycarbonate and the metal hanger and perches are powder coated and...
- SIMPLE AND HASSLE FREE: The included hanging hook, leak resistant seal, and large bottle opening makes an easy to use functional feeder
- PROTECT THE BIRDS: A portion of ALL Stokes Select proceeds is donated to bird habitat and conservation, so you can create a better bird...
- HIGHLY RATED: Stokes Select is a common household name for a reason - our birdfeeders, birdhouses, bird accessories, squirrel and ant...
3. Erva Bluebird Feeder
Undoubtedly, one of the biggest problems any bird watcher has encountered with bird feeders is that squirrels and other critters can’t seem to get their hands off them. Whatever food you place, even mealworms, these little mammals will devour them since they eat almost anything.
So in order to get these creatures out and your bird species in, sometimes you need to choose a bluebird feeder that is designed specifically to keep the squirrels out. And Erva’s Bluebird feeder is exactly that. It has a vinyl-coated wire mesh that surrounds the entire feeder. Each opening measures around 1.5 inches so bluebirds and other smaller birds can enter the cage easily.
What I love about this feeder is that it also keeps larger birds at bay, which is a huge advantage since we know that larger birds like starlings love mealworms, too. Sometimes they would stick their heads between the wire gaps, trying to get a mealworm, but are unsuccessful in their goal so they give up and leave.
The downside though is that bluebirds sometimes find it hard to enter this caged mealworm bird feeder. They would fly around the cage wondering how to enter. What I did was place some branches that would extend from inside to outside. They used this to perch and walk through the wire gaps. You can use a dowel, if you have some. Everything was smooth sailing since then.
Refilling can be a bit of a hassle though since you have to detach the roof every time you refill, but that’s the price of keeping the squirrels out effectively.
Pros:
- Keeps squirrels out
- Also keeps bigger birds out
Cons:
- Needs a branch or a dowel to easily guide bluebirds on how to get inside
- Feeding cup is too small
- Bluebird Feeder With Blue Glass Mealworm Cup And Barrier Guard
- The Mealworm Cup Is Dishwasher Safe For An Easy Clean And Refill
- Keeps Out Unwanted Visitors Such As Squirrels And Starlings With It's Sturdy Vinyl Coated Wire Mesh
- Hang From A Tree Branch Or Mount On A Pole In Your Yard
- Powder Coated In A Blue Finish For Years Of Durability
4. Birds Choice Bluebird Mealworm Feeder
If you are looking for a pole-mounted small bird feeder, this is one great option. Aside from being very well-made, this product by Birds Choice is made from recycled plastic, so environment-conscious people out there will love this. Plus, it doesn’t rot like bluebird feeders made of wood, so it’s fine even if it’s exposed to rain and sun.
Some people would look for hangers for this feeder, but since it’s specifically made to be mounted on poles, it doesn’t have one. I love it though since there are not many pole-mounted bluebird feeders out there.
What I love most though is that it’s easy to refill the feeder because the roof can be opened on one side. Of course since it is pole mounted, I had to use a step ladder to do this. Taking it off from the pole to refill can be a hassle, especially if your pole is a bit high.
Side panels can be removed, so if the bluebirds in your area are finding it difficult to enter, I suggest you remove one Plexiglass. They will eventually learn how to do it, so you can replace the panel. Or you can also place some branches by the holes on the side or on the panels to give them a clue on how to enter. I noticed that this usually happens to bluebird feeders with plexiglass anyway.
One thing I don’t like about this feeder though is that the rain tends to get inside because of the holes on the side, and the awning of the roof is not enough to keep it away.
Pros:
- Made of heavy-duty material
- Made of recycled plastic
- Doesn’t rot
- Stable since it is pole-mounted
Cons:
- Bluebirds find it hard to enter at first
- Rain tends to get inside
- PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS: Includes 1 Bluebird Feeders | Material: Recycled Poly-Lumber, Acrylic | Color: Taupe w/ Blue Roof | Measurement &...
- HOPPER FEEDER: The most convenient type of feeder, especially for hard-to-reach locations. Best to use with Black Oil Sunflower seeds or...
- RECYCLED MATERIALS: Poly lumber proudly made from recycled plastic jugs and bottles in the United States and is designed to prevent...
- MADE IN THE USA: This product is proudly made in America and manufactured in our Wisconsin facility
- BIRD TYPES: This feeder attracts: Titmice, Towhees, Woodpeckers, Siskins, Goldfinches, Grosbeaks, Chickadees, House Finches, Purple Finches,...
5. Mosaic Birds M045-200 Hummble Basic Bird Feeder
If you are looking for a feeder that can feed more than just bluebirds, Mosaic Bird Hummmble Basic Feeder is what I would recommend. This feeder would look perfect for those with model gardens. It has been stylistically-made, with a simple round metal that functions as both tray holder and perch, and a glass bowl that can hold either suet pellets, jelly, bird seeds or mealworms.
What I love most about this feeder is that it is designed so you can attach the hook of one to the bottom of another, basically forming a big dangling chain of feeders. Believe me, it looks really nice when birds of different kinds perch on every level. It’s a treat! The lip of the glass bowl extends outward for a bit, making it a nice perch for birds.
And since you can place virtually anything on the glass bowl, you can place different types of food per level, so you can attract different types of bird species. And did I mention that the glass is actually recycled? The metal rod that holds everything together has been powder-finished with black coating so that it will last longer.
The obvious downside to this bird feeder is that it can attract any type of birds: finches, thrushes, starlings and more. So if you’re trying to attract just bluebirds, well good luck with that as there is no way to way to deter other birds. Of course, you will have bluebirds in your feeder too, but they will never be solo.
For the same reason, you will be feeding more birds, hence more bird feeding expenses. But if you enjoy the flock of birds, then it might not be a bad thing.
Another thing that can be an issue is the rain. Since it practically has no cover and the glass cup has no drainage holes, then the feeding cup tends to have stagnant water. What I do is quickly clean it up after raining since I don’t want the food to go bad and the birds to get some sort of disease from it.
Pros:
- Very stylish looking and will match even model gardens
- You can link feeders
- Made of recycled glass
- Can attract any type of bird
Cons:
- Does not deter larger birds
- Water build up on the feeding cup because there are no drainage holes
- 3. 4 Ounce Capacity Bowl With 3" Opening-Provides ample feeding room for multiple birds
- Bowl Without Drainage-Holds mealworms, suet pellets, jelly, and flower seeds to attract a wider range of birds
- Extended Bowl Edge-Provides a narrow perch for birds and longer viewing enjoyment
- Open Top Hook-Allows for hanging individually or connecting multiple feeders vertically
- Recycled Glass & Powder-Coated Metal Construction-Makes for an eco-friendlier and longer-lasting feeder
6. Woodlink NABBFDR Audubon Bluebird Feeder
If you’re in an area where rain is frequent, from mild to heavy downpour, it’s important to get a feeder that can keep your bird food dry. Woodlink’s Audonom Dome Feeder is a good choice. One look at the item and you know it’ll last long even if it rained and snowed the whole year. The clear plastic is actually thick polycarbonate that is UV resistant. It is clear enough for you to be able to see bluebirds feeding inside.
What I love about this feeder aside from being able to protect the mealworms and birds seeds from getting wet is that you can adjust the top dome. This means you can target birds based on their size and food preference. Since we’re talking about bluebirds here, what I suggest is to use mealworms or suet dough during the winter and place the dome really low. This way, only small birds can come in and have their fill.
Aside from preventing large birds from getting in, this bird feeder is also effective against squirrels. They can try to get in, but the smooth curve of the dome won’t let them. They can try hanging on top but the bird food become too far from their reach that they couldn’t get any. Can you believe that those stubborn creatures would actually give up? They did.
The downside with this feeder is that because the top dome is a solid cover that keeps the rain out, it always happens to catch wind. So if you live in a windy area and the dome catches the wind, expect the bird food to be thrown out, if not the feeder itself. It’s good though that the feeder didn’t break when mine caught the wind and was removed from where it was hooked. The solution to this is to tightly secure the hook to a non-mobile spot; a sturdy pole would work. Again, this is only if it’s pretty windy wherever you’re at.
Pros:
- Very sturdy thick polycarbonate
- UV resistant
- Keeps the rain, snow and squirrels out
- Adjustable top dome
Cons:
- Can catch the wind, throwing mealworms out
- Dome top seed and bluebird feeder
- Attract bluebirds by feeding them mealworms
- Adjustable dome keeps large birds and weather out
- Heavy-duty polycarbonate, uv resistant
- Large tray holds seed, mealworms, fruit or suet
7. Kettle Moraine Cedar Bluebird Mealworm Feeder
Are you looking for a bird feeder that you can mount on a post, a pole or even on a wall? This solid cedar wood bird feeder might just be the one for you. The wood is very thick and you can see that it will last a while. Plus this item is made in the USA!
I like that it has a hinged roof door that you can open to place mealworms in. You can get an additional cup to place the bird food in, or you can just place them on the floor. My only issue with placing mealworms on the floor of this feeder is that they could crawl up the sides of the wood and out of the feeder to freedom. This is because the inside wood walls of the bird feeder are rough enough for them to climb. This is why I used a smooth cup when placing mealworms inside.
This bluebird feeder is great for keeping jays, mockingbirds and starlings away. It can take a while for the bluebirds to understand how to get in, though. So when you put it up, try removing the glass cover first or leaving the top door open in order to ease the bluebirds in.
One thing that turns me off though is that I can only watch the bluebirds on one side of the feeder. The other three sides are blocked by cedar wood. Also, this bird feeder does not deter squirrels. Some would reach in through the hole to get food, while others would chew on the holes to make them bigger so they can let themselves in.
Pros:
- Made of thick cedar
- Stainless steel hinges and screws
Cons:
- Doesn’t keep the squirrels away
- Only one viewing side
- Made in the USA
- Soild Cedar and Stainless Steel Screw Construction - No cheap staples or brads
- Mounts to a post or pole
- Hinged Roof for Easy Filling
- Plexi glass viewing windows
8. Perky-Pet Mealworm Bird Feeder
If you want to be able to watch bluebirds feed consistently and continuously without having to refill your feeder several times a day, then getting a tube feeder would be a great idea. This feeder by one of my favorite bird species feeder brands allows you to place 3.5 ounces of dried mealworms inside. If you have dozens of bluebirds in your area, this will last you anywhere between two to five days. If you have around five or less, the mealworms would last for a week or two. That’s effortless feeding!
What I like most about this feeder (aside from not having to refill every few hours) is that it effectively keeps the rain out, so I don’t have to worry about soggy wet bird feed. The tube itself is nine inches of transparent, thin plastic. You can easily tell if it’s time for a refill. It is also pretty easy to clean.
The blue perches are made of thicker plastic than the tube, but holding it in my hand; I fear that it will break apart when it accidentally falls to the ground. The perches are small enough for bluebirds would stand on, but would be too small for starlings and other bigger birds, which is a good thing.
Because of its slim size, you can easily hang it anywhere outside, even at tree branches. Of course, be wary of squirrels since these critters eat anything, even dried mealworms.
One thing I noticed was that the holes on one side are smaller than the other, so some birds are having difficulty pulling mealworms out. But still, they keep coming back to it so they must still be getting some food through that side.
Pros:
- Really attracts bluebirds
- Can fill 3.5 ounces of mealworms
- Keeps the rain out
- lightweight
Cons:
- Made of thin plastic
- Size of the feeding holes are not the same, some are big enough, others are too small
- Attracts bluebirds, woodpeckers and other insect eaters
- Slotted ports prevent scatter and messes below the feeder
- Enclosed design keeps mealworms fresh and dry
- Removable lid for easy filling and cleaning
- Holds up to 3.5 oz of dried mealworms
9. Kettle Moraine Recycled Bluebird Mealworm Feeder
The blue color really attracts bluebirds, especially during mating season. If you want a bird feeder that truly catches the attention of bluebirds, this Kettle Moraine bluebird feeder is not one to be taken lightly. This high-quality bird feeder will make it worth your while to set out mealworms for the birds. There are other colors, but in my experience, the blue one works best.
What I love most about this feeder is that it is made of recycled milk jugs; a fact that will surely entice nature lovers out there. The plastic is very thick, which looks as if it will last for years. This feeder can be bottom mounted on thick posts, or hung on branches or hooks.
It has transparent acrylic walls on two opposing sides, making it easier to view the birds feeding inside. Both are removal and have 1.5 inch holes for bluebirds to enter. It also has holes on either ends as well, making the total number of holes to be four. This is enough entrances for bluebirds to choose from.
At first, it might be hard for bluebirds to understand how to enter, as with any other bluebird feeders with the birdhouse design. What I always do is place a branch inside; the branch should be big enough that it extends outwards. This gives the bluebirds a place to perch on and approach the hole. After few days to a couple of weeks, the birds become a pro at entering the feeder that you can remove the branch safely. Some people would also open up one side of the feeder by removing one acrylic wall until the birds learn how to come in and leave at will.
Pros:
- Made of recycled plastic
- Material is thick and sturdy
- Made in the USA
- Stainless steel hinges and screws
Cons:
- Bluebirds find it hard to enter at first
- Made from Recycled Milk Jugs
- Guaranteed to Never Crack, Split, Peal or Fade
- Heavy Acrylic Viewing Windows
- Stainless Steel Screw Construction and Hanging Cable
- Made in the USA
10. Birds Choice BBFF Bluebird Flower Feeder
A lot of people are looking for elegantly designed bird feeder that accentuates their garden. If you are looking for one, Birds Choice Bluebird Flower Feeder is an option that you shouldn’t overlook. It actually looks like an oriole feeder, except that the cups are blue instead of orange. It has metal rods that are shaped as petals of a flower, which also serve as perch for the bluebirds.
I like its little blue plastic jewel at the top as it attracts the bluebirds to the feeder. It shines nicely under the sun, too. The blue cup has smooth sides so the mealworms couldn’t crawl out of the feeder, which is good. The downside though is that the cup has no drainage holes on it, so if it rains, it will have standing water in it. It is a very thick and durable cup though.
As it is an open feeder, refilling is a breeze. Cleaning can be done easily to as you can simply unhook and clean the feeder the scrubbing the metal and the cup. Leave it out to air dry and it’s good to go. But being too open can be a problem if you have bigger birds in the area. Once they get to the feeder first, they’ll leave nothing for the bluebirds, which are my intended visitors.
The metal rod that holds the cup, the petals and serves as the hook is very sturdy. On the contrary, the metal petals aren’t as thick. One of the petals broke off while I was cleaning it, which was a disappointment. It didn’t affect the feeder as the birds would still flock to it, but it doesn’t look as nice anymore.
Pros:
- Looks elegant enough
- The blue jewel and cup attracts bluebirds
- Easy to clean and refill
Cons:
- The metal petals are not very sturdy
- Attracts all types of birds, especially the large ones
- Elegant flower design with blue ornamental jewel and blue cup makes this bluebird feeder eye appealing
- The blue cup will hold mealworms or mixed seed
- Attractive flower design
- Attracts Bluebirds with mealwormsBird Types:
- Bluebirds Specifications
11. Droll Yankee CUTE Chickadee Feeder
This Droll Yankee bird feeder is advertised for chickadees and nuthatches, but works great for bluebirds too. I loved how my Woodlink Audobon Dome Feeder worked so I was itching to try this one as well, even though it is smaller. The bottom tray for this bird feeder is only 4.5 inches, which means it can hold only one cup of bird food, whether bird seeds, suet dough or mealworms.
The top dome is 6 inches wide, and just like the other dome feeder I have tried, this one is also adjustable. The black rubber rings attached to the pole are what you can use to adjust the top cover’s height.
Although small, it can manage up to four bluebirds at a time. It is actually quite cute. The dome and feeder tray are both made of clear acrylic that doesn’t fog up, so you will have a clear view of the birds eating.
What I love most is that rats and squirrels can’t get to it. They tend to slide off the top dome whenever they try to reach for the bird food, so it can be considered squirrel-proof. It is also easy to clean, which is necessary since birds that hop on the top dome usually poop a lot.
I’m also impressed with its durability as it dropped two stories high one windy day and it wasn’t destroyed. The only drawback is that it really catches the wind.
Pros:
- Very durable and clear acrylic material
- Easily adjustable height
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Can only hold one cup of bird food
- Can easily catch the wind
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12. Birds Choice Bluebird Mealworm Feeder
Birds Choice is one of my go-to brands when it comes to bird feeders. This mealworm bird feeder that I purchased from them is made of thick, high-quality cedar wood. It has plexiglass on both sides for viewing purposes. These sides are removable and have two holes each for bluebirds to enter. It also has holes on both sides of the cedar wood wall.
What I love most about this feeder is that you can either hang it or mount it on a pole or post. However, it doesn’t come with the hanging hooks or the mounting screws. You would have to buy these items yourself when you have decided how to use it. You can screw eye hooks at the top to attach a hanging chain to, or you can drill through the wood to mount it on a post.
While this is great for dried mealworms, you may have a problem with live ones. The inner sides of the cedar wood are rough enough for the live mealworms to crawl out of. You can place a smooth cup inside for live mealworms though, if that is what you really prefer.
If your bluebirds are finding it hard to enter the feeder at the beginning, you can either remove one plexiglass, or add a dowel right beneath the holes on the sides.
What I don’t like about this feeder is that determined squirrels can chew right through the wood. If you intend to place it on a pole or if you intend to hang it, make sure to use a squirrel baffle to keep the critters away.
Pros:
- Made of nice, thick cedar wood
- Has several access ports for bluebirds to enter
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Not entirely squirrel-proof
- PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS: Includes 1 Bluebird Feeders | Material: Cedar | Color: Natural Cedar | Measurement & Capacity: 14”L x 9”W x...
- HOPPER FEEDER: The most convenient type of feeder, especially for hard-to-reach locations. Best to use with Black Oil Sunflower seeds or...
- NATURAL CEDAR: Constructed with inland red cedar for long lasting outdoor use. All screwed construction using weather-resistant plated deck...
- MADE IN THE USA: This product is proudly made in America and manufactured in our Wisconsin facility
- BIRD TYPES: This feeder attracts: Titmice, Towhees, Woodpeckers, Siskins, Goldfinches, Grosbeaks, Chickadees, House Finches, Purple Finches,...
What To Look For When Buying A Bluebird Feeder
Some bluebirds will migrate south during the winter, others will not. If the bluebirds in your area don’t move south when it gets cold, chances are it’s because it feels it can stay in the same place because it has found a nesting place as well as a great source of food even through winter. The source of food might actually be your feeder. In such cases, you can’t put your feeder away for the winter. So if your feeder needs to be out the whole year round, here are the factors you should consider when buying a bluebird feeder:
Durability – your feeder must be able to withstand sun, rain, wind and snow. If you are using a bird house kit or house feeders, choose those made of cedar or of really thick plastic. If you want dome type feeders, use those with stainless steel rods and thick acrylic plastic.
Size – if there are several bluebirds in your area, choose bigger feeders so you won’t have to refill often and you won’t have a problem of bluebirds fighting over food. But if you only have a few, choose a smaller size so that you only have to refill once a day. That way, you can be sure that the food you offer is always fresh and enticing to these birds.
Cleans easily – in order to prevent the spread of diseases, you should regularly clean your bird feeder. If you are using a post mounted bird feeder, make sure you can clean it easily without having to remove it from its place. Some birds feeders made of plastic are also pretty easy to clean and sanitize, which is a huge plus.
Attractive to bluebirds – let’s face it: your feeder will not be effective if it cannot attract bluebirds. Some bird feeders use the blue color to attract bluebirds. Bluebirds hunt for this color especially during the mating season. Once they realize that your feeder is a place for them to dine in, they would surely come back for a meal, bringing their family with them.
Another way for mealworm feeders to be attractive to bluebirds is if they can clearly see the mealworms. Clear sidings or roofs can help in this instance. Plus the transparent parts of the feeder allow you to watch the bluebirds while they eat.
Deters larger birds – bigger birds like jays and starlings will always be a problem for you since they love mealworms too. Your bluebird feeder must have a system to keep these birds away.
Keeps squirrels away – squirrels are another competition since these critters will eat almost anything. They would even chew through the material of your bird feeder if you place it where they can easily access it. If you purchase house-type feeders, make sure you also buy a separate squirrel baffle or deterrent to prevent them from taking over and scaring your bluebirds away.
Material – Bluebird feeders can be made of various materials, including wood, plastic, and metal. Wooden feeders are traditional and attractive, but they may require more maintenance. Plastic feeders are durable and easy to clean, but they may not be as aesthetically pleasing. Metal feeders are sturdy and long-lasting, but they may be heavier and more difficult to hang.
Of course, you should also put price into consideration, as well as the brand warranty, if any.
Other Important Factors To Consider
What is a bluebird feeder?
A bluebird feeder is exactly as its name implies – a bird feeder specifically made for bluebirds. Because of their diet, they may have a lot of competition when it comes to the food you offer. However, they cannot compete with larger birds like jays and starlings, which is why almost all available bluebird feeders have a way to keep the bigger birds out and only the bluebirds in.
How does it work?
What I did first in order to attract bluebirds is to understand them. Specifically, what they eat and how they eat it. Although with most birds we make use of seeds in order to feed them, it would not be the same with bluebirds. Most bluebirds do not partake generally in seeds. During summer seasons (or generally warmer months), I have learned that their diet consists of various insects, worms, snails, and the likes. However, when the colder seasons arrive, they switch their diet to mostly berries.
Now that I know what can attract them, all I need to do is place these food in the bluebird feeders and voila! You have bluebirds flocking your garden. Some feeders attract these birds even more with the help of the blue color. And as previously mentioned, most feeders are designed so as to keep larger birds and squirrels out.
What are the different types of bluebird feeders?
There are several types of bluebird feeders based on the type of meal that you can offer. These are:
- Mealworm Feeders – Bluebirds love eating mealworms. It gives them the same satisfaction of finding their food on the ground. It is also one of the easiest (and most expensive) ways to attract them! Mealworm feeders are feeders that specifically prevent these mealworms from crawling out before the birds arrive. Mostly made out of polycarbonate, they are designed to be durable for bluebirds, as well as clear.
- Suet Feeders – Suet and suet cakes attract bluebirds like no other. As they are always on the move, they gravitate towards food that gives them fuel and energy other than great taste. With the use of suet feeders, you can feed bluebirds during the cold months and provide them with the warmth they need to survive. It needs to be able to withstand cold, and aren’t often used in summers.
- Fruit Feeders – Fruit feeders allow you to take small slices of fruits and place them on an accessible spot. Fruit feeders are just simple feeders, although quite lighter in structure. They are mostly made of wood in order to adhere to the nature theme.
- Tray Feeders – probably the simplest feeder of them all, I use these feeders by hanging them or mounting them to wooden poles. They can also be kept on the ground, but as it can attract all kinds of birds and animals it can present competition to the bluebirds.
When specified according to structure, there are also various kinds of styles these feeders come in. These are the feeders you use according to your landscape or environment.
- Domed Feeders – Most domed feeders on the market are made of durable and clear polycarbonate, which is exactly what bluebirds need during the rainy days. With the clear plastic: the worms cannot crawl out, the birds can see the meal, and the feeder would not break easily if it falls to the ground. Platforms like this that are utilized in rainy days, most of them are equipped with small holes for drainage so it does not ruin the food inside. And as if the dome protecting the bluebirds from the rain is not enough, I was also really thrilled to know that the domes are adjustable as to prevent the bigger birds from getting to the food!
- Cedar House-type Feeder – Backyard feeders use these type of feeders mostly to complement their garden landscape. When enclosed with wooden walls, they are equipped with small holes from opposite walls just enough to let the bluebirds eat to eliminate bigger competition. Mostly though they have open walls, but the low roof makes it harder for bigger birds to partake in the meal. Cedar is also durable and light, which makes it perfect for the little bluebirds!
- Open Hanging Feeders – These are lightweight tray feeders that can be hanged or placed on elevated places, which attract the bluebirds through its accessibility. Whether just hooked from your roof, or mounted on a simple pole, it does its job. The small size makes it easy to place small portions in it, clean it, and refill it again as easy! It also keeps the bigger birds away this way.
- Window Feeders – One of the most versatile feeders out there, window feeders are utilized by those who do not have as much space as others but would like to observe bluebirds as well! Or if you just love that extra feeder that you can use with all your others. Quality suction cups are attached to the durable polycarbonate, and the bluebirds look comfy in them!
- Grounded Tray Feeders – These tray feeders mimics the bluebird’s natural affinity of finding their own food on the ground. With grounded feeders you do not need to worry about the wind blowing it away and the ground breaking it. They are durable and easy to make. However, it is not quite applicable to mealworm feeding (they will just crawl out and escape), they are more accessible and easier to spot from above.
Why do you need a bluebird feeder?
As you can see, their diet is not very unique. If you just use an ordinary cup to feed a bluebird, you might be able to attract them with the food for a short time, but you would also be attracting other birds with the same diet. A bluebird feeder will help you attract bluebirds, while preventing larger birds from getting to the food.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are good bluebird feeder brands?
There are a lot of feeders available even in Amazon. The basic requirements of a good feeder are:
- Easy to fill and clean
- Durable
- Can last longer time of use
- Safe for the birds
- Allows monitoring of both feeds and birds
It may also depend on your area and preference as a keeper. You might also want to check some added features. It can have UV-resistance, shock waves, transparent feeding tubes, eco-friendly materials, and mealworm blocking or enclosure system. Some good brands are:
- Will Bills
- Perky Pet
- Stokes Select
- Outside Fun
- Birds Choice
- Woodlink
- Kettle Moraine
- Mosaic Birds
Based on experience, these are the brands whose bird feeder models fit the basic requirements of a good feeder.
Will bluebirds eat dried mealworms?
Yes. May it be live or dried, bluebirds go to feeders to get their ration of mealworms. They don’t usually go to these boxes, but if they sense mealworms, expect to see feasting bluebirds.
What do bluebirds eat besides mealworms?
Bluebirds can eat mealworms all year long, but that can be quite an expense for a regular bird watcher. Suet Dough is another option, even though it is not their favorite. Suet dough can give them the nourishment they need, especially through winter.
You can buy suet dough or create one yourself. You can create one by mixing peanut butter, melted lard, flour, oatmeal and corn meal. Once it hardens, you can chop these up and serve in the feeder tray.
Bluebirds also feed on fruits usually found in their habitat, such as berries. Some also like raisins, but you have to put a little bit of water to make it like any fresh fruit. Bluebirds can also have seeds on their diet, but not always.
What is the best food for bluebirds?
As mentioned above, the best food for bluebirds are mealworms and suet dough. You can buy these in the nearest pet store, or you can buy them online. Your best options are Kaytee Mealworms and C&S Bluebird Nuggets.
Where to hang bluebird feeders?
It depends on the available area you have. Usually, you must put them in a place where they can roam around and explore. You can hang the feeders in or near a garden. Don’t bring it to a concrete and hot place. Try to find a tree with a good shade or to a post where their access to the environment is easy.
How high to hang bluebird feeders?
These birds fly high. And from where they came from, their nests are as high as an NBA player’s height or more. It’s best to place it on a level like where they naturally place their nests, around seven to twelve feet (7-12 ft.). You may also want to check if there are other animals around. You don’t want the bluebirds to be their dinner.
Can you put it near a glass window? Absolutely! But please put it one or two feet away. This is to prevent accidents from happening and the bluebirds hurting themselves when they fly towards their mirrored reflection in the window.
How to make a mealworm birdfeeder?
You can make a homemade bluebird mealworm feeder from the materials available in your garage. Here’s how to make the cheapest one easily and quickly.
Old Can Feeder
Materials: Old can, nylon string or wires
- Clean an old 2-3 inch deep can. This depth is just enough for the birds to reach and for the feeds to not spill. Make sure to use a can with no rust and sharp edges from uneven opening.
- Drill 3 holes on the sides with equal angles and spaces from each other. For your guide, imagine the points of a triangle when you look at the can from its top view. Make sure to align holes to avoid imbalance.
- Cut about 3 – 4 feet long strings or wires. Tie it in the holes.
- Place mealworms and install the can feeder on your preferred area.
How to attract bluebirds?
Here are some tips to attracting bluebirds:
Provide what they need, protect them, and give them freedom. That is how you can make the bluebirds come on to the feeder.
- Allow them to feel that they are hunting for their food from your ‘provided meal’.
- Don’t watch them eat too closely. Let them be. You can also put the feeder near a tree with holes or an old trunk. That way, their instinct to find a resting place will come naturally.
- Place food that they like. Aside from mealworms, you can put fruits, especially berries. Or you can put the feeder in an area with planted fruits. Don’t forget to place water near it.
- Your bluebird feeder placement must be in a safe location. Check if there are roaming animals like dogs or cats. Choose a place where Tom and Jerry chasing moments may not happen. You don’t want to scare away the bluebirds, right?
How to Set Up Bluebird Feeders
Setting up bluebird feeders is simple and gratifying. The best bluebird feeder setting is one where there are adjacent trees or shrubs for perching and cover. This type of environment draws bluebirds more. Choose a spot at least 5 to 6 feet off the ground and away from busy roadways or sidewalks.
Due to their conservative nature, bluebirds will avoid approaching a feeder if they feel they are being observed. Also, the feeder must be placed in a location with lots of sunlight. Bluebirds prefer to eat in the light; therefore, if the feeder is in the shade, they won’t be able to see the food inside.
You can also install the bluebird feeder on a pole with its back to the direction of the wind and its front-facing neighboring tree or shrub for perching. This is more like a hanging bluebird feeder. Also, since bluebirds can be violent toward other birds, you should keep your feeder away from other bird feeders.
You’ll need a bluebird feeder and some bluebird food to get started. Bluebird feeders and food are typically available in hardware or home improvement stores. Follow the directions below to set up your feeder and start luring bluebirds to your yard after you have your feeder and food.
Attracting Bluebirds With Mealworms
Bluebirds’ food choices are many; they are insectivorous birds that frequently eat spiders, beetles, and caterpillars. But they’re also a perky pet mealworm bird, which is available through bluebird feeders, and are also their favorite food.
Bluebirds can get a lot of protein and other essential nutrients from mealworms, which are the larvae of the darkling beetle. Pet stores and online sellers sell them live, frozen, or dried. To keep live mealworms healthy, store them in a cool environment and feed them fruits or vegetables.
The correct mealworm feeders must be used when putting up a bluebird feeder filled with mealworms. A small round mealworm bowl with a shallow tray is best, so the bluebirds can quickly get the mealworms. In addition, ensure the bluebird feeder is safely attached and placed away from potential predators in a secure spot for the bluebirds. For example, a squirrel-proof mealworm bird feeder is ideal.
Start by providing little mealworms to entice bluebirds to the feeder. When they become accustomed to it, they gradually increase the quantity. Because damaged food can attract pests and diseases, keeping the mealworm bird feeder clean and debris-free is essential.
Adding mealworms to bluebird feeders through a carefully made mealworm holder can be an excellent way to entice these stunning birds to your yard and give them a new food source.
What Color Attract Bluebirds the Most?
The question of which hues draw bluebirds is heavily disputed among birders. While some experts claim that these mealworm feeders are attracted to blue, others assert that any bright color entices bluebirds. What, then, is the truth?
One of the many factors that contribute to attracting mates and establishing territory is the color of their feathers, which is blue.
Many shades of blue, green, and violet are attractive to bluebirds. In addition, vibrant colors, red and yellow, appeal to bluebirds. Bluebirds are generally attracted by colors that contrast with their plumage. This makes them stand out and visible to possible mates.
Conclusion
Bluebirds are among the most fascinating birds to watch, especially because of their color. If you happen to see some in your area, don’t miss the chance to have these birds become regular visitors to your home. All you need to do it set out a good bluebird feeder and place suet dough or mealworms and you’ll surely have these avian friends visit every day.
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Last update on 2023-09-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Erva bluebird feeders is very well made. When we first hung the feed and put mealworms in it, the bluebirds checked it out right away. The starlings came and checked it out but flew off right away as they knew they couldn’t fit it! Now our bluebirds can eat in piece without the starlings gobbling up all the worms.
It’s great to hear that the Erva bluebird feeder is well made and effectively keeps starlings away, allowing the bluebirds to enjoy their mealworms in peace.
Thank you so much for your excellent article thoroughly describing the pros and cons of blue bird feeders!! Loved it! I would also be interested in seeing some visuals of how you used a branch or dowel rods in the Kettle Moraine and Erva feeders. Thank you!
Hello,
I just bought a feeder like the one that you recommend: Woodlink NABBFDR Audubon Bluebird Feeder. How far do you keep the top of the dome from the top of feeder tray? How large is that gap? I just had two bluebirds in my feeder today for the first time. However, they were then chased away from the feeder by a starling. If the gap is too large, the starling can get in. If the gap is too small, the bluebirds can’t. In my feeder, the dome also extends about 1/2″ to 1″ beyond the feeder tray.
THANK YOU!
Hey John! Happy to hear this feeder has attracted the first bluebirds! Hm, yeah starlings can be a problem…to minimize the chance of one getting in I’d make the opening as small as possible. Also, it might be a good idea to hang this feeder close the window where you could monitor who’s actually getting in and chase any of the persona-non-grata away. Next time you get the bluebirds in this feeder, please share a pic with me at birds@seabirdsanctuary.docker.scottoldford.com!
What are the best suet feeders for bluebirds, that deter bully birds and protects from weather?
Suet feeders with cages or wire mesh that allow small birds like bluebirds to access the suet while keeping out larger bully birds are a good option, and weather-resistant materials such as metal or recycled plastic can help protect the suet from the elements.
Nice article. I hope I can provide enough food for bluebirds in the winter season when resources are limited. Now thanks for your article I know I need to prepare something.
It’s great to hear that you found the article helpful, and providing food for bluebirds during the winter can definitely make a difference. There are a variety of food options you can offer, such as mealworms, suet, and berries, and placing the food in a sheltered and protected location can help ensure it stays fresh and accessible.
You are right. A quality bluebird feeder and the right type of food can increase the odds of these birds visiting me.
Glad to hear that, providing the right feeder and food can definitely attract bluebirds to your yard.