Feeder match

The best feeder for tufted titmice

Titmice favor large seeds, carrying them off to hammer open or cache within about 130 ft of the feeder.

Tufted Titmouse perched, showing grey crest
Photo: Rhododendrites / Wikimedia Commons

Feeder styles that work

First choice
Hopper feeder

Easy access to sunflower; they take one seed and leave.

Also works
Peanut or suet feeder

High-fat foods matter in cold weather.

What to fill it with

  • Black-oil sunflower
  • Shelled peanuts
  • Suet

Full seasonal diet of the Tufted Titmouse →

Sizing the feeder to the bird

The Tufted Titmouse measures 5.5–6.3 in and weighs 0.6–0.9 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 tufted titmice?

Hopper feeder. Easy access to sunflower; they take one seed and leave.

What should I put in a feeder for tufted titmice?

Black-oil sunflower, Shelled peanuts, Suet.

Where should I place a feeder for tufted titmice?

Titmice favor large seeds, carrying them off to hammer open or cache within about 130 ft of the feeder.

Sources

  1. Tufted Titmouse — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  2. Tufted Titmouse life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  3. Tufted Titmouse — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
  4. 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.