How to Make a Blue Jay Feeder?

Blue jays are vibrant and intelligent birds, easily recognizable by their striking blue feathers and distinctive calls. They are known for their curiosity and their presence in many North American backyards. Birdwatchers and nature lovers enjoy attracting these bold birds to their outdoor spaces, as blue jays can bring a lively dynamic to a garden or yard.

To make a blue jay feeder, you need to select the right materials and understand blue jays’ feeding preferences. A platform-style feeder is ideal for blue jays, and it can be built with simple materials such as wood or recycled items. Placing the feeder in a safe, accessible location will maximize your chances of attracting blue jays year-round.

Blue jays prefer foods like peanuts, sunflower seeds, and suet. These high-energy foods help them thrive in different seasons, especially in winter. By making a specialized blue jay feeder, you provide them with the nourishment they need while also enjoying the beauty and charm they bring to your outdoor space.

Blue Jay Behavior

Blue jay feeding habits

Blue jays are known for their intelligent and adaptable nature, especially when it comes to finding food. They are opportunistic feeders, meaning they will eat a variety of foods depending on availability. Blue jays typically forage on the ground but are equally comfortable feeding from elevated surfaces. They have strong beaks, which allow them to crack open nuts and seeds easily. Their curiosity and boldness often make them the dominant bird at feeders, outcompeting smaller species.

One interesting behavior of blue jays is their habit of caching food. They will often hide extra food in various locations, such as tree bark or under leaves, to save it for later. This caching behavior helps them survive in the wild, especially during leaner months. Blue jays are also known for mimicking the calls of hawks, which can scare off potential competitors at the feeder.

Favorite foods of blue jays

Blue jays are omnivorous, but they prefer certain foods that provide them with high energy and nutritional value. Their top favorites include:

• Peanuts: Whether shelled or unshelled, peanuts are a favorite snack for blue jays. Their strong beaks can easily break open the shells.
• Sunflower seeds: Black oil sunflower seeds are rich in fats, making them an excellent source of energy for blue jays. They prefer to pick up seeds and fly away to crack them open in a safer location.
• Corn: Both cracked corn and whole kernels are appealing to blue jays, especially during colder months when they need extra calories.
• Suet: Suet, a mixture of fat and other ingredients, provides essential energy, especially in winter.
• Fruits: Blue jays enjoy fruits like apples, berries, and grapes, especially when other food sources are scarce.

Providing a variety of foods will keep blue jays returning to your feeder, especially if you stock it with high-energy snacks like peanuts and sunflower seeds.

Ideal time to attract blue jays to feeders

While blue jays can be spotted year-round in most parts of North America, they are more active during certain times of the day and seasons. The best time to attract blue jays to feeders is early morning and late afternoon when they are actively foraging.

Seasonally, blue jays are more likely to visit feeders in fall and winter, as natural food sources become scarce. During these months, their caching behavior increases, and they are more likely to rely on feeders. Providing food consistently throughout these colder months ensures that they will keep returning to your feeder.

Choosing the Right Location

Importance of feeder placement for blue jays

Where you place your feeder plays a crucial role in attracting blue jays. These birds prefer open spaces where they can see any potential threats, such as predators. Proper placement also ensures that the feeder is easily accessible, both for the birds and for regular maintenance, such as refilling and cleaning.

If the feeder is placed too close to dense vegetation, blue jays may feel threatened by hidden predators. At the same time, placing the feeder too far from cover may leave them exposed to dangers like hawks. A balance between open areas and nearby shelter, like trees or bushes, works best for blue jays.

How to choose a safe and accessible spot

A safe location ensures that the blue jays are protected from predators, while an accessible spot makes it easy for them to find food. Some tips for choosing the best spot include:

• Visibility: Place the feeder in a spot where blue jays can easily see their surroundings. They prefer to have a clear line of sight to watch for predators.
• Distance from predators: Avoid placing feeders too close to ground cover or areas where cats or other predators may hide.
• Near shelter: While they enjoy open spaces, blue jays also appreciate nearby trees or shrubs to perch on before approaching the feeder.

Best height and surroundings for attracting blue jays

The ideal height for a blue jay feeder is 5 to 6 feet above the ground. This height helps protect the birds from ground predators like cats and raccoons. It also allows for better visibility of the surrounding area.

When choosing a location, consider adding the feeder near natural perching spots, such as tree branches or fence posts, where blue jays can land before heading to the feeder. Additionally, placing the feeder near a water source, such as a birdbath or small pond, can further attract blue jays since they love to drink and bathe regularly.

Materials for the Feeder

Essential materials and tools you’ll need

Creating a blue jay feeder requires basic materials that are durable and safe for outdoor use. Here’s a list of essential materials you’ll need:

• Wood: Cedar or pine are great choices as they are weather-resistant.
• Screws and nails: For assembling the feeder securely.
• Drill: A drill helps in creating holes for ventilation and drainage.
• Mesh or wire: For certain feeder designs like suet feeders.
• Hooks or chains: To hang the feeder from a tree or pole.

Additionally, you’ll need paint or wood sealer to protect the wood from weather damage, though ensure the coatings are bird-safe and non-toxic.

Best types of wood or alternative materials

The best type of wood for building a feeder is cedar. Cedar is naturally resistant to weathering and rot, making it perfect for outdoor use. Pine is another good choice, although it may need to be treated with a protective sealant to withstand the elements.

If you’re looking for eco-friendly alternatives, consider using recycled plastic or reclaimed wood. These materials are durable and help reduce environmental waste. Just ensure that any plastic used is BPA-free and safe for wildlife.

Tips for eco-friendly and durable materials

To make your feeder more eco-friendly, you can:

• Use recycled wood or other materials from previous projects.
• Choose natural finishes like linseed oil instead of chemical sealants.
• Opt for sustainable materials like FSC-certified wood, which ensures responsible forestry practices.
• Avoid using metal parts that can rust and pose a danger to the birds over time.

Building the Feeder

Basic Feeder Design

A simple and effective design for a blue jay feeder is a platform feeder. It provides a large, flat surface where bluejays can easily land and pick up food. Here’s how to build one:

Step-by-step guide to a simple blue jay feeder

1. Cut the wood: Start by cutting a wooden plank into a square or rectangular shape, around 12×12 inches.
2. Build the frame: Attach small wooden borders around the edges to keep food from falling off.
3. Add drainage holes: Drill small holes in the bottom of the platform to prevent water from pooling after rain.
4. Attach hooks or chains: Secure hooks or chains to the corners so you can hang the feeder from a tree or pole.
5. Mount the feeder: Hang the feeder in a spot that’s visible and easily accessible to blue jays.

This simple design allows for easy access and makes cleaning and refilling straightforward.

Ideal dimensions and shape for blue jay feeders

Blue jays are medium-sized birds, so the feeder should be large enough for them to perch comfortably. An ideal platform feeder should be at least 12 inches square. Ensure the edges are raised slightly, about 1-2 inches, to keep the food in place while still allowing the birds to access it easily.

How to ensure proper ventilation and drainage

Ventilation and drainage are critical to keeping the feeder clean and preventing mold growth. Here’s how to ensure proper drainage:

• Drill multiple small holes in the base of the feeder.
• Use a slatted design for the bottom to allow water to escape easily.
• Keep the feeder elevated off the ground to prevent it from sitting in standing water after rain.

Platform Feeder

Why platform feeders work well for blue jays

Platform feeders are perfect for blue jays because they offer plenty of space for these larger birds to land and eat. The open design also mimics the ground foraging behavior blue jays are accustomed to in the wild.

Easy steps to create a sturdy platform feeder

To build a more advanced platform feeder:

• Use weather-resistant wood like cedar for durability.
• Add a slanted roof to keep the food dry.
• Include sides to prevent food from blowing away.

Adjustments for different weather conditions

For rainy or snowy weather, consider adding a roof or cover to the platform feeder to keep the food dry. A simple overhang can make a big difference in protecting the feeder from the elements.

DIY Suet Feeder

Benefits of suet feeders for blue jays

Suet feeders provide a high-energy food source that is particularly beneficial during colder months. Suet is rich in fats, which help blue jays maintain energy levels in winter.

How to make a suet feeder at home

To make a DIY suet feeder, you’ll need:

• Wire mesh: Cut it into a small cage shape.
• Twist ties or zip ties: Secure the edges of the mesh.
• Hanger: Attach a hook or chain to hang it.

Food for Blue Jays

Preferred Seeds and Nuts

Blue jays are known for their diverse diet, which primarily consists of seeds and nuts. These foods provide the essential nutrients that blue jays need to thrive throughout the year. While blue jays will eat a variety of seeds, there are certain types that they prefer.

What to put in your blue jay feeder

When it comes to filling your blue jay feeder, you should focus on offering high-energy and nutrient-rich foods. Some of the most popular options include:

• Peanuts: Both shelled and unshelled peanuts are a favorite of blue jays. These provide a great source of fats and protein, which help blue jays maintain their energy levels, especially in colder months.
• Sunflower seeds: Black oil sunflower seeds are particularly attractive to blue jays. These seeds are small, but they are packed with essential fats that give the birds long-lasting energy.
• Corn: Whole kernels or cracked corn are great options, especially when other food sources are limited during the colder months.
• Tree nuts: Acorns, hazelnuts, and pecans are some of the wild nuts that blue jays enjoy. You can collect these during fall and offer them in your feeder.

Blue jays’ favorite seeds and their nutritional benefits

Blue jays have some clear favorites when it comes to seeds. Sunflower seeds are not only a favorite, but they are also rich in healthy fats and proteins, which are important for maintaining a healthy weight and energy. Peanuts, another preferred food, are excellent sources of protein and fats. Offering these foods in your feeder ensures that blue jays get the nutrition they need, especially during colder months when natural food sources are scarce.

How to store and handle birdseed to prevent spoilage

Properly storing birdseed is essential for keeping it fresh and safe for blue jays. Here are some tips to help prevent spoilage:

• Store seeds in airtight containers: Exposure to moisture can cause mold and make the seeds unsafe for birds. Airtight containers help keep moisture out.
• Keep birdseed in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing seeds in places that are prone to heat and humidity. A cool, dry storage area will extend the shelf life of your birdseed.
• Use seed in rotation: Make sure to rotate your seed stock, using older seed first to prevent any from going stale or spoiling.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your feeder offers fresh and nutritious food to blue jays.

Homemade Blue Jay Food

Recipes for making blue jay-friendly food at home

Creating homemade food for blue jays can be both fun and rewarding. It allows you to offer high-quality food tailored to their needs. Here’s a simple recipe for a blue jay suet cake:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup of melted suet (beef fat)
  • ½ cup of peanut butter
  • 1 cup of oats
  • 1 cup of cornmeal
  • ½ cup of chopped peanuts
• Instructions:
  1. Melt the suet in a pot over low heat.
  2. Mix in the peanut butter, oats, cornmeal, and chopped peanuts.
  3. Pour the mixture into a mold or a tray and let it cool until firm.
  4. Once solid, place it in a suet feeder or break it into chunks for a platform feeder.

This suet cake provides a high-energy meal perfect for winter months when blue jays need extra calories.

How to prepare and present food in feeders

Presentation is key to attracting blue jays to your feeder. Here are some tips:

• Platform feeders: These are ideal for offering larger food items like peanuts, corn, and suet cakes. Blue jays like to land and feed on flat surfaces, so platform feeders work well.
• Hanging feeders: You can place suet cakes in a hanging wire feeder. Make sure it is sturdy enough to handle the weight of blue jays, as they are larger birds.
• Scatter feeding: Another option is to scatter food, such as peanuts or corn, directly on the ground or a low platform. Blue jays are comfortable foraging this way, and it can help attract them to your yard.

Keeping Pests Away

Common pests that might disturb blue jay feeders

While you want to attract blue jays, there are several unwanted guests that may try to raid your feeder. Common pests include:

• Squirrels: Squirrels are notorious for stealing birdseed, especially peanuts and sunflower seeds.
• Rats and mice: If food is left on the ground or feeders aren’t cleaned regularly, it can attract rodents.
• Other birds: Sometimes larger or more aggressive birds, such as grackles or crows, might take over a feeder meant for blue jays.

Safe and effective ways to keep squirrels and other pests away

To keep pests away, consider these safe and effective methods:

• Squirrel baffles: Attach a squirrel baffle to the pole or tree where your feeder is placed. These slippery, dome-shaped barriers prevent squirrels from climbing up to the feeder.
• Weight-sensitive feeders: These feeders close the access to food when heavier animals like squirrels try to feed.
• Cayenne pepper: Sprinkling cayenne pepper on birdseed is a natural way to deter squirrels. Birds like blue jays aren’t affected by the spice, but squirrels dislike it.

Tips for cleaning and maintaining the feeder regularly

To keep the feeder hygienic and safe for blue jays:

• Clean the feeder every two weeks: Use a mild soap and warm water to wash the feeder, removing old food and debris.
• Check for mold: Especially in wet or humid conditions, food can become moldy, which is harmful to birds. Regularly inspect and remove any spoiled food.
• Use fresh food: Always refill the feeder with fresh, high-quality seeds and nuts to ensure blue jays are getting the best nutrition.

Seasonal Considerations

Winter Feeding

Winter presents challenges for blue jays as natural food sources become scarce. During this time, your feeder becomes an essential source of sustenance for them.

How to modify the feeder for winter use

Winter weather can be tough on feeders, so making a few adjustments will help:

• Add a cover: A simple roof or overhang can keep food dry and protect it from snow.
• Increase food supply: Offer larger quantities of food during the winter, as blue jays need more energy to stay warm.
• Choose high-energy foods: In winter, suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds are essential, providing the fats and energy blue jays need to survive.

Best foods to offer during cold months

Winter feeding requires more energy-rich foods to help blue jays endure the cold. Suet cakes, high-fat nuts, and sunflower seeds are excellent choices during this season. These foods offer a dense source of calories that help blue jays stay warm and active even in freezing temperatures.

Summer and Spring Care

During the warmer months, blue jays will still visit feeders, but they may not rely on them as heavily. Here are some tips for warmer weather feeding:

Adjustments for warm weather feeding

In spring and summer, blue jays will start to forage for insects and fruits, but they will still appreciate seeds and nuts in your feeder.

• Offer fresh fruit: Blue jays love fruits like berries and apples during warmer months.
• Reduce suet: Suet can melt in hot weather, so it’s best to offer it only in cooler months.
• Provide water: Adding a birdbath near your feeder will attract blue jays, as they enjoy both drinking and bathing, especially in the heat.

Keeping the feeder clean and safe during rainy seasons

Rainy seasons can cause food to spoil quickly, leading to the growth of mold and bacteria. To avoid this:

• Drainage holes: Ensure your feeder has proper drainage to prevent water from pooling.
• Regular cleaning: Clean the feeder more frequently during rainy periods to prevent contamination.
• Use covered feeders: A roofed feeder will help protect the food from rain.

Benefits of Feeding Blue Jays

How feeding blue jays helps local ecosystems

Feeding blue jays not only benefits the birds but also plays a role in supporting local ecosystems. Blue jays help control insect populations and spread seeds through their caching behavior. By providing a reliable food source, you contribute to the health of these birds, helping them thrive in your area.

The joy and benefits of birdwatching for mental well-being

Birdwatching is a relaxing and rewarding hobby that can have a positive impact on mental health. Watching blue jays interact with your feeder can bring a sense of calm and connection to nature. Their playful behavior and striking appearance provide endless entertainment, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Attracting other bird species along with blue jays

When you set up a feeder for blue jays, you may also attract a variety of other bird species, such as cardinals, woodpeckers, and nuthatches. Offering a diverse range of foods ensures that your feeder becomes a hub for local wildlife, allowing you to enjoy the presence of many different bird species throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best food for blue jays?

Blue jays love peanuts, sunflower seeds, corn, and suet. Peanuts, whether shelled or unshelled, are one of their favorites. Sunflower seeds, especially black oil sunflower seeds, provide them with essential fats and nutrients. Suet cakes are another excellent choice, especially during the colder months when blue jays need extra energy.

Where should I place my blue jay feeder?

It’s best to place the feeder in a quiet spot, away from heavy foot traffic or predators. Blue jays prefer open areas where they can keep an eye out for danger. Hanging the feeder from a tree branch or mounting it on a pole at least five to six feet above the ground is ideal for safety and accessibility.

How can I keep squirrels away from my blue jay feeder?

Squirrels are notorious for raiding bird feeders, but you can deter them by using squirrel-proof feeders or placing a baffle on the feeder pole. Greasing the pole or adding spicy birdseed (which birds don’t mind but squirrels dislike) can also help keep them at bay.

How often should I clean my blue jay feeder?

Cleaning your feeder at least once every two weeks is important to prevent mold, bacteria, and other contaminants. In warmer months or after rain, you may need to clean it more frequently. Use a mild soap and water solution, and make sure to dry the feeder completely before refilling it.

Conclusion

Making a blue jay feeder is a rewarding way to attract these stunning birds to your backyard. By using simple materials and choosing foods like peanuts and sunflower seeds, you can create a welcoming space for blue jays while enjoying the lively activity they bring.

Feeding blue jays not only helps them thrive but also contributes to maintaining the local ecosystem. A well-maintained feeder ensures that these birds have a reliable food source, encouraging them to visit your yard throughout the year.