The best feeder for red-tailed hawks
Perches on poles and trees over open yards and fields; keeps rodent numbers down around rural homes.
Feeder styles that work
Water often attracts this species more than food.
What to fill it with
- None — hunts mammals in open ground
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Red-tailed Hawk measures 17.7–25.6 in and weighs 24.3–51.5 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-tailed hawks?
Shallow bird bath (1–2 in deep). Water often attracts this species more than food.
What should I put in a feeder for red-tailed hawks?
None — hunts mammals in open ground.
Where should I place a feeder for red-tailed hawks?
Perches on poles and trees over open yards and fields; keeps rodent numbers down around rural homes.
Sources
- Red-tailed Hawk — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Red-tailed Hawk life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Red-tailed Hawk — 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.