The best feeder for chestnut-backed chickadees
A bird of wet Pacific conifer forest; forages high in Douglas fir and hemlock.
Feeder styles that work
Suits small clinging and perching birds and keeps seed dry.
High-fat food in winter; a tail prop suits woodpeckers.
What to fill it with
- Black-oil sunflower
- Suet
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Chestnut-backed Chickadee measures 4.3–4.7 in and weighs 0.3–0.4 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 chestnut-backed chickadees?
Tube feeder with short perches. Suits small clinging and perching birds and keeps seed dry.
What should I put in a feeder for chestnut-backed chickadees?
Black-oil sunflower, Suet.
Where should I place a feeder for chestnut-backed chickadees?
A bird of wet Pacific conifer forest; forages high in Douglas fir and hemlock.
Sources
- Chestnut-backed Chickadee — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Chestnut-backed Chickadee life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Chestnut-backed Chickadee — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
- NestWatch nest box plans and species requirements — Cornell Lab
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.