The best feeder for black-and-white warblers
The only warbler that habitually creeps on trunks; occasionally visits suet during cold migration snaps.
Feeder styles that work
High-fat food in winter; a tail prop suits woodpeckers.
Water often attracts this species more than food.
What to fill it with
- Suet (rarely, on migration)
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Black-and-white Warbler measures 4.3–5.1 in and weighs 0.3–0.5 oz. Perches, ports and landing surfaces need to fit that frame — too small and the bird can't feed comfortably, too open and larger birds and squirrels dominate.
Keep it clean
Scrub feeders every two weeks in hot soapy water, soak 10 minutes in a 1:9 bleach solution, rinse and dry before refilling. Rake up hulls underneath.
Frequently asked
What kind of feeder is best for black-and-white warblers?
Suet cage or tail-prop suet feeder. High-fat food in winter; a tail prop suits woodpeckers.
What should I put in a feeder for black-and-white warblers?
Suet (rarely, on migration).
Where should I place a feeder for black-and-white warblers?
The only warbler that habitually creeps on trunks; occasionally visits suet during cold migration snaps.
Sources
- Black-and-white Warbler — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Black-and-white Warbler life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Black-and-white Warbler — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.