The best feeder for black-throated sparrows
Comes to ground seed and water in desert yards; can go long stretches without drinking in the wild.
Feeder styles that work
Mimics natural ground foraging; place within 10 ft of shrubs.
Water often attracts this species more than food.
What to fill it with
- Millet
- Cracked corn (on the ground)
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Black-throated Sparrow measures 4.7–5.5 in and weighs 0.4–0.5 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-throated sparrows?
Low ground tray under cover. Mimics natural ground foraging; place within 10 ft of shrubs.
What should I put in a feeder for black-throated sparrows?
Millet, Cracked corn (on the ground).
Where should I place a feeder for black-throated sparrows?
Comes to ground seed and water in desert yards; can go long stretches without drinking in the wild.
Sources
- Black-throated Sparrow — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Black-throated Sparrow life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Black-throated Sparrow — 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.