The best feeder for cowbirds
A brood parasite — it lays eggs in other birds' nests. Feeding less millet and avoiding platform scatter reduces cowbird crowds.
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
- Millet
- Cracked corn
- Mixed seed
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Brown-headed Cowbird measures 7.5–8.7 in and weighs 1.3–1.8 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 cowbirds?
Low ground tray under cover. Mimics natural ground foraging; place within 10 ft of shrubs.
What should I put in a feeder for cowbirds?
Millet, Cracked corn, Mixed seed.
Where should I place a feeder for cowbirds?
A brood parasite — it lays eggs in other birds' nests. Feeding less millet and avoiding platform scatter reduces cowbird crowds.
Sources
- Brown-headed Cowbird — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Brown-headed Cowbird life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Brown-headed Cowbird — 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.