The best feeder for evening grosbeaks
Flocks can empty a feeder in a morning during irruption years; populations have declined sharply since the 1980s.
Feeder styles that work
An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.
Holds a large seed volume with a ledge for mid-sized birds.
What to fill it with
- Black-oil sunflower
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Evening Grosbeak measures 6.3–7.1 in and weighs 1.9–2.6 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 evening grosbeaks?
Platform / tray feeder. An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.
What should I put in a feeder for evening grosbeaks?
Black-oil sunflower.
Where should I place a feeder for evening grosbeaks?
Flocks can empty a feeder in a morning during irruption years; populations have declined sharply since the 1980s.
Sources
- Evening Grosbeak — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Evening Grosbeak life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Evening Grosbeak — 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.