The best feeder for eastern towhees
Towhees 'double-scratch' in leaf litter. Leave leaves under shrubs rather than raking them.
Feeder styles that work
Mimics natural ground foraging; place within 10 ft of shrubs.
What to fill it with
- Millet
- Cracked corn
- Hulled sunflower
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Eastern Towhee measures 6.8–8.2 in and weighs 1.1–1.8 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 eastern towhees?
Low ground tray under cover. Mimics natural ground foraging; place within 10 ft of shrubs.
What should I put in a feeder for eastern towhees?
Millet, Cracked corn, Hulled sunflower.
Where should I place a feeder for eastern towhees?
Towhees 'double-scratch' in leaf litter. Leave leaves under shrubs rather than raking them.
Sources
- Eastern Towhee — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Eastern Towhee life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Eastern Towhee — 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.