The best feeder for California scrub-jays
Scrub-jays bury thousands of acorns each fall and remember where most of them are.
Feeder styles that work
Jays and nuthatches work peanuts from wide mesh.
An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.
What to fill it with
- Peanuts
- Sunflower
- Suet
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The California Scrub-Jay measures 10.6–11.8 in and weighs 2.8–3.5 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 California scrub-jays?
Whole-peanut or peanut-mesh feeder. Jays and nuthatches work peanuts from wide mesh.
What should I put in a feeder for California scrub-jays?
Peanuts, Sunflower, Suet.
Where should I place a feeder for California scrub-jays?
Scrub-jays bury thousands of acorns each fall and remember where most of them are.
Sources
- California Scrub-Jay — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- California Scrub-Jay life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- California Scrub-Jay — 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.