Feeder match

The best feeder for bohemian waxwings

Irruptive winter flocks strip berry trees bare in a morning; plant mountain-ash and crabapple to host them.

Waxwings (Bombycillidae)Bohemian WaxwingBombycilla garrulus

Feeder styles that work

First choice
Platform / tray feeder

An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.

Also works
Shallow bird bath (1–2 in deep)

Water often attracts this species more than food.

What to fill it with

  • Raisins
  • Chopped apple
  • Fruiting crabapple and mountain-ash plantings

Full seasonal diet of the Bohemian Waxwing →

Sizing the feeder to the bird

The Bohemian Waxwing measures 7.9–8.7 in and weighs 1.9–2.3 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 bohemian waxwings?

Platform / tray feeder. An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.

What should I put in a feeder for bohemian waxwings?

Raisins, Chopped apple, Fruiting crabapple and mountain-ash plantings.

Where should I place a feeder for bohemian waxwings?

Irruptive winter flocks strip berry trees bare in a morning; plant mountain-ash and crabapple to host them.

Sources

  1. Bohemian Waxwing — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  2. Bohemian Waxwing life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  3. Bohemian Waxwing — 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.