The best feeder for indigo buntings
Migrates at night by the stars; males sing from utility lines along brushy edges all summer.
Feeder styles that work
Tiny ports keep this fine seed from spilling.
An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.
What to fill it with
- Nyjer
- Millet
- Hulled sunflower
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Indigo Bunting measures 4.7–5.1 in and weighs 0.4–0.6 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 indigo buntings?
Nyjer (thistle) finch feeder. Tiny ports keep this fine seed from spilling.
What should I put in a feeder for indigo buntings?
Nyjer, Millet, Hulled sunflower.
Where should I place a feeder for indigo buntings?
Migrates at night by the stars; males sing from utility lines along brushy edges all summer.
Sources
- Indigo Bunting — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Indigo Bunting life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Indigo Bunting — 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.