The best feeder for Europeans
Non-native; starlings take over woodpecker and bluebird cavities. Upside-down suet feeders deter them.
Feeder styles that work
High-fat food in winter; a tail prop suits woodpeckers.
What to fill it with
- Suet
- Cracked corn
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The European Starling measures 7.9–9.1 in and weighs 2.1–3.4 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 Europeans?
Suet cage or tail-prop suet feeder. High-fat food in winter; a tail prop suits woodpeckers.
What should I put in a feeder for Europeans?
Suet, Cracked corn.
Where should I place a feeder for Europeans?
Non-native; starlings take over woodpecker and bluebird cavities. Upside-down suet feeders deter them.
Sources
- European Starling — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- European Starling life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- European Starling — 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.