Blue jays are beautiful, bold birds. They add a splash of color to any yard. Attracting them to your feeder can be fun. But these intelligent birds can be picky. You need the right feeder to keep them happy and coming back for more. I’ve tested several feeders, and here are my top picks for attracting blue jays.
Product Overview
- Perky-Pet 336 Squirrel-Resistant Bird Feeder: Best overall, squirrel-resistant.
- Droll Yankees Domed Cage Feeder: Best caged feeder, keeps out larger birds.
- Woodlink Absolute II Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder: Premium option, large capacity.
- Brome Squirrel Buster Standard Bird Feeder: Great for deterring squirrels, weight-activated.
- Stokes Select Bird Feeder: Hopper style, easy to fill.
Top 5 Best Bird Feeder For Blue Jays
1. Perky-Pet 336 Squirrel-Resistant Bird Feeder
The Perky-Pet 336 is a great all-around feeder. It keeps squirrels away from the bird seed. This feeder is easy to fill and clean. I like how durable it is.
Pros:
- ✅ Squirrel-resistant design
- ✅ Easy to fill and clean
- ✅ Durable construction
Cons:
- ❌ Smaller capacity than some
- ❌ May require some adjustment for optimal squirrel deterrence
- ❌ Can be challenging to disassemble completely for deep cleaning
Verdict: A solid choice for anyone battling squirrels. It’s a reliable and effective feeder that will attract blue jays.
2. Droll Yankees Domed Cage Feeder
This feeder features a cage design. It keeps out larger birds like pigeons and grackles. Blue jays can still access the seed. It’s a great option for areas with many bird species.
Pros:
- ✅ Deters larger birds
- ✅ Allows smaller birds like blue jays to feed
- ✅ Durable construction
Cons:
- ❌ Can be expensive
- ❌ Cage may obstruct viewing some birds
- ❌ Requires specific seed types for optimal use
Verdict: Ideal if you want to target smaller songbirds and keep larger birds away. It’s a well-built feeder that does its job.
3. Woodlink Absolute II Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder
This is a premium feeder. It has a large capacity and is very squirrel-resistant. The Woodlink Absolute II is built to last. It holds a lot of seed, so you don’t have to refill it often.
Pros:
- ✅ Large capacity
- ✅ Excellent squirrel resistance
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point
- ❌ Can be heavy when full
- ❌ Some small birds may have difficulty using it
Verdict: A great investment if you want a feeder that will last for years. It’s perfect for serious bird enthusiasts.
4. Brome Squirrel Buster Standard Bird Feeder
The Brome Squirrel Buster is weight-activated. It shuts off access to the seed when a squirrel climbs on it. This is a very effective way to keep squirrels away. I’ve seen it work firsthand in my backyard.
Pros:
- ✅ Highly effective squirrel deterrence
- ✅ Durable construction
- ✅ Easy to clean
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than other feeders
- ❌ May require adjustments to the tension settings
- ❌ Small birds may be intimidated by the closing mechanism
Verdict: If squirrels are your biggest problem, this feeder is the answer. It’s a reliable and effective solution.
5. Stokes Select Bird Feeder
This is a hopper-style feeder. It’s easy to fill and attracts a variety of birds. The Stokes Select Bird Feeder is simple and functional. I like its classic design.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to fill and clean
- ✅ Attracts a variety of birds
- ✅ Affordable price
Cons:
- ❌ Not squirrel-resistant
- ❌ Seed can get wet in rainy weather
- ❌ May require more frequent refilling
Verdict: A good budget-friendly option. It’s perfect if you don’t have a squirrel problem or don’t mind using a squirrel baffle.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right bird feeder can seem tricky. Here are some things to consider.
- Squirrel Resistance: If squirrels are a problem, choose a squirrel-resistant feeder. Weight-activated or caged designs work well.
- Capacity: Consider how often you want to refill the feeder. Larger capacity feeders require less frequent refilling.
- Ease of Cleaning: Regular cleaning is important to prevent the spread of disease. Choose a feeder that is easy to disassemble and clean.
- Durability: Look for a feeder made from durable materials that can withstand the elements. Metal or high-quality plastic are good choices.
- Seed Type: Blue jays prefer peanuts, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn. Choose a feeder that can accommodate these seed types.
- Placement: Place the feeder in a location that is easily accessible to birds but protected from predators. A spot near trees or shrubs is ideal.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about bird feeders for blue jays.
Q: What kind of seed do blue jays like?
A: Blue jays love peanuts, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn. They also enjoy suet and berries.
Q: How do I keep squirrels away from my bird feeder?
A: Use a squirrel-resistant feeder, a squirrel baffle, or place the feeder in a location that is difficult for squirrels to access.
Q: How often should I clean my bird feeder?
A: Clean your bird feeder at least once every two weeks, or more often if it becomes dirty or moldy. Use soap and water, and rinse thoroughly.
Q: Where is the best place to hang a bird feeder?
A: Hang your bird feeder in a location that is easily accessible to birds but protected from predators. A spot near trees or shrubs is ideal.
Q: Can I use a regular bird feeder for blue jays?
A: Yes, but a feeder designed for larger birds or with larger perches is preferable. Hopper and platform feeders work well.
Conclusion
Attracting blue jays to your yard can be a rewarding experience. The right feeder makes all the difference. Consider your needs and choose a feeder that is durable, easy to clean, and squirrel-resistant. Happy birding!
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