The best feeder for Clark's nutcrackers
Bold at mountain cabins and ski-area feeders; carries off seeds by the billful to cache.
Feeder styles that work
An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.
What to fill it with
- Peanuts in the shell
- Black-oil sunflower
- Suet
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Clark's Nutcracker measures 10.6–11.8 in and weighs 3.7–5.7 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 Clark's nutcrackers?
Platform / tray feeder. An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.
What should I put in a feeder for Clark's nutcrackers?
Peanuts in the shell, Black-oil sunflower, Suet.
Where should I place a feeder for Clark's nutcrackers?
Bold at mountain cabins and ski-area feeders; carries off seeds by the billful to cache.
Sources
- Clark's Nutcracker — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Clark's Nutcracker life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Clark's Nutcracker — 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.