The best feeder for black-headed grosbeaks
One of few birds that eats monarch butterflies; a summer feeder regular in the West.
Feeder styles that work
An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.
Holds a large seed volume with a ledge for mid-sized birds.
What to fill it with
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Black-headed Grosbeak measures 7.1–7.5 in and weighs 1.2–1.7 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-headed grosbeaks?
Platform / tray feeder. An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.
What should I put in a feeder for black-headed grosbeaks?
Sunflower.
Where should I place a feeder for black-headed grosbeaks?
One of few birds that eats monarch butterflies; a summer feeder regular in the West.
Sources
- Black-headed Grosbeak — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Black-headed Grosbeak life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Black-headed Grosbeak — 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.