The best feeder for Woodhouse's scrub-jays
A bird of piñon-juniper and oak scrub; common in Great Basin and Southwest yards.
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
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay measures 11–11.8 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 Woodhouse's scrub-jays?
Whole-peanut or peanut-mesh feeder. Jays and nuthatches work peanuts from wide mesh.
What should I put in a feeder for Woodhouse's scrub-jays?
Peanuts, Sunflower.
Where should I place a feeder for Woodhouse's scrub-jays?
A bird of piñon-juniper and oak scrub; common in Great Basin and Southwest yards.
Sources
- Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Woodhouse's 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.