The best feeder for juncos
Juncos are 'snowbirds' — they feed on the ground beneath feeders and are a sure sign winter has arrived in the south.
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
- White proso millet
- Hulled sunflower
- Cracked corn
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Dark-eyed Junco measures 5.5–6.3 in and weighs 0.6–1.1 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 juncos?
Low ground tray under cover. Mimics natural ground foraging; place within 10 ft of shrubs.
What should I put in a feeder for juncos?
White proso millet, Hulled sunflower, Cracked corn.
Where should I place a feeder for juncos?
Juncos are 'snowbirds' — they feed on the ground beneath feeders and are a sure sign winter has arrived in the south.
Sources
- Dark-eyed Junco — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Dark-eyed Junco life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Dark-eyed Junco — 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.