The best feeder for red-breasted nuthatches
Irrupts south in poor cone years; smears sap around its nest hole to deter predators.
Feeder styles that work
Suits small clinging and perching birds and keeps seed dry.
High-fat food in winter; a tail prop suits woodpeckers.
What to fill it with
- Black-oil sunflower
- Suet
- Peanut hearts
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Red-breasted Nuthatch measures 4.3 in and weighs 0.3–0.5 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 red-breasted nuthatches?
Tube feeder with short perches. Suits small clinging and perching birds and keeps seed dry.
What should I put in a feeder for red-breasted nuthatches?
Black-oil sunflower, Suet, Peanut hearts.
Where should I place a feeder for red-breasted nuthatches?
Irrupts south in poor cone years; smears sap around its nest hole to deter predators.
Sources
- Red-breasted Nuthatch — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Red-breasted Nuthatch life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Red-breasted Nuthatch — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
- NestWatch nest box plans and species requirements — Cornell Lab
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.