The best feeder for painted buntings
A secretive bird of thickets; millet tube feeders placed near shrubs are the best way to see one.
Feeder styles that work
Suits small clinging and perching birds and keeps seed dry.
An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.
What to fill it with
- White proso millet
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Painted Bunting measures 4.7–5.1 in and weighs 0.5–0.7 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 painted buntings?
Tube feeder with short perches. Suits small clinging and perching birds and keeps seed dry.
What should I put in a feeder for painted buntings?
White proso millet.
Where should I place a feeder for painted buntings?
A secretive bird of thickets; millet tube feeders placed near shrubs are the best way to see one.
Sources
- Painted Bunting — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Painted Bunting life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Painted 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.