Feeder match

The best feeder for ravens

Ravens are cautious at feeding stations and prefer quiet rural ground; they cache surplus food.

Crows and jays (Corvidae)Common RavenCorvus corax

Feeder styles that work

First choice
Platform / tray feeder

An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.

Also works
Low ground tray under cover

Mimics natural ground foraging; place within 10 ft of shrubs.

What to fill it with

  • Peanuts in the shell
  • Suet scraps

Full seasonal diet of the Common Raven →

Sizing the feeder to the bird

The Common Raven measures 22.1–27.2 in and weighs 24.3–57.3 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 ravens?

Platform / tray feeder. An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.

What should I put in a feeder for ravens?

Peanuts in the shell, Suet scraps.

Where should I place a feeder for ravens?

Ravens are cautious at feeding stations and prefer quiet rural ground; they cache surplus food.

Sources

  1. Common Raven — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  2. Common Raven life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  3. Common Raven — 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.