The best feeder for Brewer's blackbirds
The confident black bird of western parking lots and picnic areas; walks rather than hops.
Feeder styles that work
Mimics natural ground foraging; place within 10 ft of shrubs.
An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.
What to fill it with
- Cracked corn
- Millet
- Mixed seed
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Brewer's Blackbird measures 7.9–9.8 in and weighs 1.8–3 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 Brewer's blackbirds?
Low ground tray under cover. Mimics natural ground foraging; place within 10 ft of shrubs.
What should I put in a feeder for Brewer's blackbirds?
Cracked corn, Millet, Mixed seed.
Where should I place a feeder for Brewer's blackbirds?
The confident black bird of western parking lots and picnic areas; walks rather than hops.
Sources
- Brewer's Blackbird — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Brewer's Blackbird life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Brewer's Blackbird — 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.