If you’re a bird watcher, you know that Blue Jays are among the most common and colorful birds in North America. Blue Jays are beautiful birds, but they can be difficult to attract if you don’t have the right feeder.
Not all bird feeders are created equal. If you want to attract Blue Jays, you need a feeder big enough for them to eat from with a perch they can use. You also need to ensure the feeder is placed in an open area where the jays can easily see it.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the best Blue Jay feeders and offer an expert buyer’s guide to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Last update on 2024-04-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Kingsyard Hanging Tray Bird Feeder
- HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL - Tray wood feeder is carefully crafted with weather-resistant New Zealand pine wood and rustproof steel...
- USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN - All metal rust-free mesh screen bottom allows for drainage and keep seeds fresh and dry.
- LARGE FEEDING AREA - Two separate compartments allow you to feed different mixes at the same time. Dimension: 11-inch length,...
Last update on 2024-04-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Kingsyard Hanging Tray Bird Feeder is one of the best open tray feeders on the market. The flat, level tray emulates the Blue Jay’s ground-feeding behavior without exposing bird food to pests, and the split compartments allow you to feed multiple mixes at once.
The open design is simple to clean, and the mesh bottom allows for water drainage, keeping the food dry. However, the design is not squirrel-proof, so careful placement or added baffles is essential.
Seeds are also exposed to the weather, so it’s not ideal if you experience heavy rainfall in your region. Overall, the Kingsyard Hanging Tray Bird Feeder is a perfect choice for those looking for an easy-to-use and easy-to-clean bird feeder.
Pros:
- Flat tray promotes ground-feeding behaviors without attracting pests
- Split compartments for multiple mixes
- Easy to clean
- Mesh bottom allows for efficient drainage
Cons:
- Not squirrel-proof
- No weather-proofing
Solution4Patio USA Cedar Tail Prop Suet Bird Feeder
- 🐦 ONE SIDE PERCH - Perch design ideal for attracting large woodpeckers like the pileated to your backyard and provides...
- 🐦 USA CEDAR - This tail prop suet feeder made of USA cedar, sturdy and durable, corrosion resistant. And cedar wood smell like...
- 🐦 CLASP for SQUIRREL PROOF - There is a little clasp in the cage when you fill the suet cakes that makes squirrel can not steal...
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The KSolution4Patio USA Cedar Tail Prop Suet Bird Feeder is a top-of-the-line feeder for those who love backyard birdwatching. The tail prop design supports the Blue Jay’s tail as it perches. The weather-proof premium cedar roof protects the suet from rain and snow, and the firm clasps prevent squirrels from stealing the suet cakes.
The feeder is also handmade and structurally sound, making it a beautiful addition to any backyard. However, the feeder could be larger to accommodate a variety of birds. Overall, the KSolution4Patio USA Cedar Tail Prop Suet Bird Feeder is a high-quality feeder that will please any bird lover.
Pros:
- Tail prop design
- Weather-proof roof
- Handmade and structurally sound
- Firm clasps prevent squirrels from stealing suet cakes
Cons:
- Could be larger
Naturesroom Peanut Bird Feeder
Last update on 2024-04-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Naturesroom Peanut Bird Feeder is a great option for bird enthusiasts looking for an effective and safe way to feed their feathered friends. The powder-coated steel design protects against the elements, while the large capacity means you won’t have to refill it as often.
Many happy customers and reviewers have even raved that Blue Jays love it! While the simple design is one of the big selling points, it can also be a bit of a hazard if the coils become bent.
Damage can cause dangerous gaps, which birds may get stuck in. The design is solid, though, so damage is unlikely. Overall, the Naturesroom Peanut Bird Feeder is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable and safe bird feeder.
Pros:
- A non-toxic powder finish protects the steel without endangering wildlife
- Simple but effective design
- Large capacity
Cons:
- Becomes a hazard if coils are bent
IvyMore Premium Ground Bird Feeding Tray
Last update on 2024-04-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The IvyMore Premium Ground Bird Feeding Tray is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable and easy-to-use bird feeder. The raised edges prevent ground spills, and the mesh design allows for efficient drainage. The feeder is also dishwasher safe, making it very easy to clean.
However, there are a few downsides to the IvyMore Premium Ground Bird Feeding Tray. First, it does not offer any pest protection, but this is a given for ground-based feeders. Second, the feeder is on the small side, so it may not be suitable for large flocks of Blue Jays. Overall, the IvyMore Premium Ground Bird Feeding Tray is a good option for those looking for a simple and effective bird feeder.
Pros:
- Super affordable
- Raised edges prevent ground spills
- Mesh design allows for efficient drainage
- Easy to clean (dishwasher safe)
Cons:
- No pest protection
- Small size
Perky-Pet Outdoor Panorama Wild Bird Feeder
- Accommodate Multiple Birds – Two tiers of seed trays and circular perches let birds feed from all angles and allow multiple...
- Keep Squirrels Out – The patented Sure-Lock cap locks the lid in place to keep squirrels out of the seed reservoir
- Durable Design - The metal is finished with a powder coating, adding to the rustic finish, and ensuring rust resistance for...
Last update on 2024-04-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Perky-Pet Outdoor Panorama Wild Bird Feeder is a good option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract Blue Jays (and many other feathered friends!) to their backyard.
This feeder has a large seed capacity, so you don’t have to worry about refilling it daily. The circular perch allows multiple birds to feed simultaneously, and the squirrel-proof seed reservoir keeps pesky critters from raiding your bird food.
However, there are a few downsides to this feeder. The metal cap is secured with plastic notches, which can break easily, and it’s not perfectly waterproof in torrential downpours. Overall, the Perky-Pet Outdoor Panorama Wild Bird Feeder is an excellent choice for bird watchers who want to provide ample feeding space for their feathered friends.
Pros:
- Huge seed capacity. Holds several pounds of seeds.
- Circular perch for maximum feeding space
- Squirrel-proof seed reservoir
Cons:
- Fragile parts
- Not completely waterproof
Buyers Guide for Blue Jay Feeders
If you’re looking for the best bird feeders to attract Blue Jays, you’ve come to the right place. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about the best feeder for your needs.
A Blue Jay’s Diet
Understanding the Blue Jay’s dietary needs is essential to finding the best feeder for them. As omnivores, Blue Jays enjoy a variety of foods, including fruits, nuts, seeds, and insects. They often eat acorns and beechnuts in the wild, but they will also readily eat peanuts, black oil sunflower seeds, and suet.
When choosing a bird feeder, it’s important to select one that will offer a variety of foods that Blue Jays will enjoy. A good rule of thumb is to choose a feeder with at least two different types of food, such as fresh bird seeds and nuts.
Types of Feeders
Feeders come in different shapes and sizes, each with pros and cons. Here are a few of the most popular types of feeders to attract Blue Jays:
Tray
A tray or platform bird feeder is one of the most popular types of bird feeders, and for a good reason. They’re easy to use and offer a variety of foods. However, they’re not without their downsides. First, tray feeders can be messy, as ground-feeding birds will often scatter seeds around the feeding area. Second, they offer little to no protection from pests, so you may find yourself constantly refilling the feeder.
Tube
Tube bird feeders are a great option for those who want to offer a variety of foods without the mess. These feeders have several compartments, each designed to hold a different type of food. The compartments are typically made of metal or plastic and have small holes that allow birds to access the food.
One downside of tube feeders is that they can be challenging to clean, as debris can build up in the small compartments. Additionally, some tube feeders are more susceptible to squirrel damage than others.
Suet Cages
This type of bird feeder is designed to hold suet cakes, a favorite food of Blue Jays. These cages typically have a metal frame with wire mesh sides that allow birds to access the food.
One advantage of suet bird cages is that they’re relatively easy to clean. However, they only offer one type of food, so you may also want to consider other types of feeders.
Ground
Ground bird feeders feel like an odd choice for a bird feeder. They leave the bird food open to scavenging by rats, mice, squirrels, and other pests. They can also be messy, as birds often scatter the seed around the feeding area.
However, ground feeders do have their advantages. First, they’re one of the easiest types of feeders to clean. Second, they offer a variety of foods that Blue Jays enjoy, such as seeds, nuts, and fruits.
This bird species is a natural ground scavenger, so a ground feeder can encourage their natural behavior while still providing the food they need.
Things to Consider When Picking The Perfect Feeder
Now that you know more about the Blue Jay’s diet and the different types of feeders available, it’s time to start shopping! When looking for the best wild bird feeder for your needs, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind, such as:
- The type of food you want to offer
- The amount of space you have
- How easy the feeder is to clean
- The number of Blue Jays you want to attract
- Your budget
Feeder Material
When choosing a bird feeder, selecting one made from high-quality materials is important. The last thing you want is for your feeder to break after a few uses. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure the feeder is made from durable materials that can withstand the elements. After all, you don’t want your feeder to rust or fall apart after a few months of use.
Capacity
The feeder’s capacity is another important consideration. You’ll want to verify the feeder can hold enough food for the number of Blue Jays you wish to attract. A small feeder will suffice if you only want to attract a few birds. However, if you’re looking to attract a large number of Blue Jays, you’ll need a feeder with a larger capacity.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning the bird feeder is vital to prevent the spread of disease. However, some feeders are more difficult to clean than others. If you don’t want to spend hours cleaning your dirty bird feeder, you’ll want to choose one that’s easy to clean.
Price
Finally, you’ll need to consider your budget when selecting a bird feeder. Bird feeders can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds. But, you don’t have to spend all your money to get a good quality feeder. Plenty of affordable options will offer everything you’re looking for.
Attracting Blue Jays
Once you’ve selected the perfect feeder, it’s time to start attracting Blue Jays! Here are a few tips to get you started:
Food Sources
You’ll need to offer a food source to attract Blue Jays. As we mentioned earlier, Blue Jays enjoy a variety of foods, such as seeds, nuts, and fruits. One way to offer these foods is to purchase a bird feeder designed for Blue Jays. You can also provide natural food sources in your garden by planting trees and shrubs that bear nuts and fruits.
Water
In addition to food, Blue Jays also need access to water. A birdbath is a great way to provide water for Blue Jays and other birds. If you don’t have a birdbath, you can place a shallow dish of water in your yard. Just make sure to change the water frequently to prevent the spread of disease.
Shelter
Blue Jays also need access to shelter in the form of trees, shrubs, or even a man-made birdhouse. If you provide shelter for Blue Jays, they’re more likely to stick around and make your yard their home.
Blue Jay Bird Feeders FAQs
Do Blue Jays Use Bird Feeders?
Yes, Blue Jays will use bird feeders. However, they don’t visit feeders as frequently as other birds, such as sparrows and finches.
What Feeders Do Blue Jays Like?
The best bird feeder for Blue Jays is a ground feeder. This type of feeder allows Blue Jays to feed in their natural way. A hopper feeder is also a good option if you don’t have a ground feeder. Just make sure the feeder is large enough to accommodate Blue Jays.
Why Do You Need a Blue Jay Bird Feeder?
A Blue Jay bird feeder is a great way to attract Blue Jays to your yard. You can entice them to visit regularly by providing a food source. In addition, a feeder can also provide water and shelter.
Are Blue Jays Friendly to Other Types of Birds?
Blue Jays are generally friendly to other types of larger birds. However, they can be aggressive towards smaller birds, such as finches and sparrows.
What Do Blue Jays Not Like to Eat?
Blue Jays have a wide variety of food preferences. However, there are a few things they don’t like to eat, such as raw meat, dairy products, and spicy food.
Should I Stop Feeding Blue Jays During The Summer Or Winter?
You can continue to feed Blue Jays during the summer and winter months. However, you may need to adjust the type of food you’re offering. Blue Jays prefer fruits and insects during the summer months and seeds and nuts in the winter.
Conclusion
A Blue Jay bird feeder is a great way to attract Blue Jays to your yard. By providing a food source, water, and shelter, you can entice them to stick around all year long. When selecting a bird feeder, there are a few things you’ll need to consider, such as capacity, ease of cleaning, and price.
Our favorite is the Kingsyard Hanging Tray Bird Feeder. This affordable and attractive bird feeder allows Blue Jays to feed in a natural foraging way, as they would on the ground, but doesn’t leave the bird food open to mammals like traditional ground feeders.
Once you’ve selected the perfect feeder, it’s time to start attracting Blue Jays!