Have you ever watched a vibrant blue jay swoop down to your yard, its striking colors a flash against the green? These intelligent and bold birds are a delight to observe, but getting them to visit your feeder can sometimes feel like a puzzle. Many bird lovers want to attract these beautiful creatures, but they often face a common problem: choosing the perfect feeder. It’s not as simple as just putting out any old birdseed!
The frustration comes from knowing that blue jays have specific tastes and needs. Some feeders might be too small, too flimsy, or not designed for their strong beaks and preference for certain types of food. You might end up with feeders that attract smaller birds or, worse, none at all! This can be disappointing when all you want is to enjoy these magnificent birds up close.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down exactly what makes a feeder a winner for blue jays. You’ll learn about the best feeder types, what features to look for, and even what foods they love most. By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident in picking out a feeder that will have blue jays flocking to your yard, offering you countless moments of feathered joy.
Our Top 5 Feeder For Blue Jays Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Feeder For Blue Jays Detailed Reviews
1. Meleave Bird Feeders for Outdoors
Rating: 9.3/10
Bring a splash of color and a buffet of treats to your backyard with the Meleave Bird Feeder. This sturdy, green metal feeder is designed to attract a variety of wild birds, offering them a safe and accessible place to dine. Its large capacity means less refilling, and its thoughtful design helps keep the seed fresh and dry, even in challenging weather.
What We Like:
- It’s made of strong metal, so it can handle tough weather and persistent critters.
- The bird-shaped lock is a clever way to keep squirrels from easily getting into the seed.
- It holds a lot of birdseed, up to 6.5 pounds, meaning fewer trips to refill.
- Birds can easily eat from all sides thanks to the 360° feeding tray and four perches.
- The mesh sides and drainage holes help keep the seed dry and fresh.
- It looks nice in your yard and attracts many different kinds of birds.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has a squirrel lock, clever squirrels might still find ways to reach the perch.
- It’s recommended to hang it where squirrels can’t easily jump onto it.
This feeder is a fantastic way to enjoy watching wild birds in your own garden. It’s built to last and designed with both birds and bird lovers in mind.
2. Armstrong Wild Bird Food Royal Jubilee Jays Blend
Rating: 8.6/10
Attract the most beautiful blue jays to your yard with Armstrong Wild Bird Food Royal Jubilee Jays Blend. This 4-pound bag is packed with high-quality ingredients that blue jays love. It’s a special mix made just for them, perfect for your outdoor feeders.
What We Like:
- Made for Blue Jays: This blend is specifically designed to appeal to blue jays, making it a great choice if you want to see them visit your yard.
- Nutritious Ingredients: It contains whole corn, striped sunflower, black oil sunflower, and peanuts, which are all healthy and tasty for birds.
- Freshness Guaranteed: The food comes in a special bag that keeps it fresh and tasty for your feathered friends. It’s sealed tightly and filled with CO2 to lock in flavor.
- Attracts Multiple Jay Species: Besides blue jays, this blend also attracts Steller’s jays, gray jays, and Canada jays, bringing more variety to your birdwatching.
- Easy to Use: It works best in tray or platform feeders, which are simple to set up and refill.
What Could Be Improved:
- Feeder Type: While it works best in tray or platform feeders, some users might prefer a blend that can be used in a wider variety of feeder types.
This Royal Jubilee Jays Blend is a fantastic way to treat your local blue jays. You’ll love watching them flock to your feeder for this delicious and nutritious meal.
3. Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder for Outdoors Hanging
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of squirrels raiding your bird feeder? The Buteafly Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder is designed to keep those pesky critters away while delighting your feathered friends. This sturdy metal feeder boasts a large capacity and a clever weight-activated perch system that closes off food access when a squirrel tries to get in. Plus, its secure lid prevents them from even peeking inside.
What We Like:
- Effective Squirrel Proofing: The weight-activated perches and secure lid really work to keep squirrels out.
- Durable All-Metal Design: Built from tough metal, it can withstand chewing and all sorts of weather, promising a long life.
- Generous 5LB Capacity: Holds plenty of seed, meaning less refilling and more bird-watching enjoyment.
- Easy to Use: Refilling and cleaning are a breeze thanks to the detachable roof and large opening.
- Attractive Design: Its unique look can attract a variety of beautiful birds to your yard.
- Great Gift Idea: A thoughtful present for any nature lover or bird enthusiast.
- Excellent Support: Comes with a 2-year replacement service and 24/7 customer support.
What Could Be Improved:
- Weight Mechanism Sensitivity: While effective, some very light birds might occasionally trigger the perch closure. (This is a minor point, as the primary goal is squirrel deterrence.)
This feeder offers a robust and enjoyable way to feed birds without the frustration of squirrels. It’s a well-made, user-friendly addition to any outdoor space.
4. Birds Choice Whole Peanut Bird Feeder for Blue Jays and Woodpeckers – Durable Recycled Material
Rating: 9.3/10
Attract beautiful blue jays and busy woodpeckers right to your yard with the Birds Choice Whole Peanut Bird Feeder. This feeder is designed specifically for whole peanuts, making it easy for these larger birds to enjoy a tasty snack. It’s made from tough recycled plastic, so it will last a long time, and its taupe and green colors blend nicely with nature.
What We Like:
- The feeder has big holes in thick acrylic, perfect for whole peanuts. This makes it easy for blue jays and woodpeckers to get their food.
- Filling it up is a breeze thanks to the hinged roof. Just lift it, add peanuts, and close it.
- The roof also keeps the peanuts dry and the birds safe from rain and snow.
- It’s built from super strong recycled plastic (poly-lumber) that won’t fade, crack, or break. This feeder is made to last for many years.
- The feeder is made in the USA, supporting local jobs.
- It comes with a hanging cable, making it simple to hang from a tree or hook.
What Could Be Improved:
- While designed for larger birds, smaller birds might have a harder time accessing the peanuts compared to feeders with smaller openings.
- The dimensions are for the feeder itself, and the added hanging cable makes the total height quite a bit more, which is important to consider for placement.
This feeder is a fantastic way to bring more wild birds into your view. It helps you connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of birds in your own backyard.
5. Songbird Essentials Whole Peanut Black Wreath Feeder for Squirrels and Blue Jays
Rating: 9.1/10
The Songbird Essentials Whole Peanut Black Wreath Feeder is a clever way to share your yard with feathered friends and furry visitors alike. This feeder is specifically designed to hold whole, unsalted peanuts in their shells, making it a favorite for both birds and squirrels.
What We Like:
- It holds whole unsalted peanuts. Birds and squirrels can easily access them.
- The basic black color helps the feeder blend into its surroundings. This makes it less noticeable to wildlife, so they feel more comfortable feeding.
- It’s designed to keep squirrels and birds engaged longer. A spiral wire makes it a bit tricky to get the peanuts out, which is fun for them and keeps them around.
- Feeding squirrels their own favorite food can help keep them away from your bird feeders. This feeder gives them their own special treat.
What Could Be Improved:
- The feeder only holds whole unsalted peanuts. You can’t use other types of nuts or seeds.
- The spiral wire, while good for keeping them longer, might be too challenging for very small birds or very young squirrels to get food from.
This wreath feeder offers a simple and effective solution for feeding multiple types of backyard visitors. It’s a great way to enjoy watching wildlife in your own space.
Choosing the Best Feeder for Blue Jays
Blue jays are beautiful, intelligent birds. They have bright blue feathers and a distinctive crest. If you want to attract these amazing creatures to your yard, a good feeder is essential. This guide will help you pick the perfect feeder for your feathered friends.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a blue jay feeder, keep these important features in mind:
- Size and Capacity: Blue jays are medium-sized birds. They eat a good amount of food. Look for a feeder that is large enough to hold plenty of food. This means you won’t have to refill it every day.
- Durability: Birds can be tough on feeders. You need a feeder that can withstand weather and the birds themselves. Strong materials make a feeder last longer.
- Ease of Cleaning: Keeping feeders clean is important for bird health. A feeder that is easy to take apart and wash will save you time and effort.
- Squirrel-Proofing (Optional but Recommended): Squirrels love birdseed just as much as birds do. If squirrels are a problem in your yard, consider a feeder designed to keep them out.
- Type of Feeder: There are several types of feeders. Tray feeders, platform feeders, and hopper feeders all work well for blue jays.
Important Materials
The materials used to make a feeder affect its quality and how long it will last.
- Metal: Metal feeders are very durable. They resist rust and are hard for squirrels to chew through. However, metal can get hot in the sun.
- Wood: Wood feeders look natural and attractive. Cedar and redwood are good choices because they resist rot and insects. Make sure the wood is untreated, as chemicals can harm birds.
- Plastic: Some plastic feeders are good. Look for sturdy, UV-resistant plastic. Cheaper plastics can become brittle and break easily in sunlight.
- Glass: Glass is sometimes used for parts of feeders, like seed reservoirs. It’s easy to see how much seed is left, but it can break.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a feeder better or worse.
- Good Quality: A feeder with a strong base or hanging mechanism is better. A feeder that is easy to refill is also a plus. Look for feeders with drainage holes to prevent seed from getting soggy.
- Poor Quality: Thin, flimsy plastic or poorly joined wood can break easily. Feeders that are hard to clean will become dirty and unhealthy for birds. If a feeder can’t hold up to the weather, it’s not a good choice.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a blue jay feeder is a rewarding experience. You get to watch these intelligent birds up close.
- Attracting Blue Jays: Blue jays love certain foods. Peanuts (unsalted and in the shell), sunflower seeds, and suet are favorites. A feeder that can hold these foods will attract them.
- Placement: Hang your feeder from a sturdy branch or a pole. Make sure it’s in a spot where you can easily see it. It should also be safe from predators like cats.
- Maintenance: Regularly check the feeder for damage. Clean it at least once every two weeks. This helps prevent the spread of diseases among birds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Blue Jay Feeders
Q: What is the best type of feeder for blue jays?
A: Tray feeders and platform feeders are excellent choices. Blue jays prefer to eat from a flat surface.
Q: What kind of food should I put in a blue jay feeder?
A: Unsalted peanuts (in the shell or shelled), black oil sunflower seeds, and suet are favorites.
Q: Do I need a squirrel-proof feeder?
A: It is highly recommended if squirrels are a problem in your yard. They can empty a feeder quickly.
Q: How often should I clean my blue jay feeder?
A: Clean your feeder at least every two weeks to keep the birds healthy.
Q: Can I use a feeder with a roof?
A: Yes, a roof can protect the food from rain and snow, keeping it dry.
Q: What if my feeder is damaged?
A: If a feeder is damaged, it’s best to repair or replace it. Damaged feeders can be unsafe for birds.
Q: How high should I hang a blue jay feeder?
A: Hang it about 5 to 6 feet off the ground. This makes it easy for you to refill and clean.
Q: Can other birds eat from a blue jay feeder?
A: Yes, other birds like cardinals and woodpeckers may also visit a blue jay feeder.
Q: Is it okay to leave food out all year?
A: Yes, leaving food out year-round helps birds, especially during winter when food is scarce.
Q: Where is the best place to put a blue jay feeder?
A: Place it near trees or shrubs where birds can hide if they feel threatened.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.