The best feeder for cliff swallows
Builds mud jug nests in dense colonies under bridges and eaves; leave a mud puddle nearby in spring.
Feeder styles that work
Water often attracts this species more than food.
What to fill it with
- Crushed eggshell or oyster grit (for nest minerals)
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Cliff Swallow measures 5.1 in and weighs 0.7–1.2 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 cliff swallows?
Shallow bird bath (1–2 in deep). Water often attracts this species more than food.
What should I put in a feeder for cliff swallows?
Crushed eggshell or oyster grit (for nest minerals).
Where should I place a feeder for cliff swallows?
Builds mud jug nests in dense colonies under bridges and eaves; leave a mud puddle nearby in spring.
Sources
- Cliff Swallow — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Cliff Swallow life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Cliff Swallow — 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.