What Do Bluebirds Eat?

Bluebirds are charming creatures that bring joy to many backyards across North America. If you’ve ever wondered what do bluebirds eat, you’re not alone! These delightful birds are known for their vibrant colors and sweet songs, but their diet is equally fascinating. Bluebirds primarily feast on insects, fruits, and berries, making them a vital part of the ecosystem. Understanding their dietary preferences can help you attract these beautiful birds to your yard, ensuring they thrive while enjoying the food they love.

10 Favorite Foods That Bluebirds Eat

When it comes to feeding bluebirds, knowing their favorite foods can make all the difference. Here’s a detailed look at what bluebirds enjoy the most, ensuring you can create an inviting environment for these lovely birds.

Mealworms

One of the top choices for bluebirds is mealworms. These protein-packed treats are a staple in their diet, especially during the breeding season when they need extra energy to feed their young. Mealworms are easy to find at pet stores or online, and they can be offered live or dried. Many bird enthusiasts recommend placing mealworms in a shallow dish or a specialized feeder to attract bluebirds. The eastern bluebird, in particular, is known to be fond of these wriggly snacks, making them an excellent choice for your feeding strategy.

Mealworms are not just nutritious; they are also a great way to entice bluebirds to your yard. If you have a bird feeder, consider adding a compartment specifically for mealworms. You might also attract other insectivorous birds, such as mountain bluebirds and western bluebirds, who share similar dietary preferences.

Suet

Suet is another fantastic food option for bluebirds. This high-energy food is particularly beneficial during the colder months when insects are scarce. Suet cakes, often made from rendered animal fat mixed with seeds and fruits, provide essential calories and fats that help bluebirds maintain their energy levels during winter. You can find suet cakes at most bird supply stores, and they come in various flavors that appeal to different bird species.

When offering suet, hang it in a suet feeder or place it in a mesh bag to allow bluebirds to access it easily. It’s a great way to ensure they have a reliable food source during harsh weather conditions. Not only does suet attract bluebirds, but it also draws in other backyard birds, creating a lively feeding station.

Raisins

Raisins are a sweet treat that bluebirds can’t resist. These dried fruits are packed with sugars and nutrients, making them an excellent source of energy. You can offer raisins whole or chopped, depending on the size of the birds visiting your yard. Soaking them in water for a few hours can make them softer and easier for bluebirds to consume.

To attract bluebirds with raisins, scatter them on the ground or place them in a shallow dish. Bluebirds are ground feeders, so they will appreciate having easy access to this delicious snack. Plus, raisins can attract other birds, such as robins and thrushes, adding variety to your backyard birdwatching experience.

Blueberries

Fresh blueberries are another favorite among bluebirds. These juicy berries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. During the summer months, when blueberries are in season, you can easily find them at your local grocery store or farmer’s market.

To attract bluebirds, place a handful of blueberries in a bird feeder or on a platform feeder. You can also scatter them on the ground, where bluebirds feel more comfortable foraging. Watching bluebirds hop around your yard, feasting on these berries, is a delightful sight!

Chopped Apple

Chopped apples are a nutritious and appealing snack for bluebirds. Apples provide essential vitamins and hydration, especially during the hot summer months. Simply chop an apple into small pieces and place them in a dish or on a platform feeder.

Make sure to remove any uneaten apple pieces after a day or two to prevent spoilage. Bluebirds are attracted to the bright color and sweet scent of apples, making them an excellent addition to your bird feeding routine.

Grapes

Grapes are another fruit that bluebirds enjoy. Both red and green grapes are acceptable, and they can be offered whole or halved. Just like with apples, it’s important to remove any leftover grapes to keep your feeding area clean and safe for the birds.

You can place grapes in a dish or scatter them on the ground. Bluebirds are likely to come and enjoy this sweet treat, especially during the warmer months when they are actively foraging for food.

Earthworms

Earthworms are a natural part of a bluebird’s diet, especially during the spring and summer months. These protein-rich worms are easy for bluebirds to find in moist soil after rain. If you’re looking to attract bluebirds, consider creating a habitat where earthworms thrive, such as a garden with rich, loamy soil.

You can also set up a worm bin in your yard to cultivate your own supply of earthworms. This not only provides a food source for bluebirds but also enriches the soil in your garden.

Snails

Snails may not be the first food that comes to mind, but bluebirds enjoy them as well. These shelled mollusks provide a unique source of protein and can often be found in gardens and grassy areas. Bluebirds will peck at snails to break open their shells and access the soft body inside.

If you have a garden, leaving some areas a bit wild can attract snails, which in turn will attract bluebirds. Observing bluebirds hunting for snails can be an exciting addition to your birdwatching experience.

Crickets

Crickets are another favorite food for bluebirds. These crunchy insects are high in protein and are particularly abundant during the warmer months. You can attract crickets to your yard by creating a habitat with tall grass and shrubs.

Offering crickets in a dish or allowing bluebirds to hunt for them naturally can be a great way to provide a varied diet. Their natural instinct to catch insects makes crickets an ideal food source.

Termites

Lastly, termites are an often-overlooked food source for bluebirds. These insects are high in protein and can be found in decaying wood or under logs. If you have old, rotting wood in your yard, it might attract termites, which can, in turn, attract bluebirds.

Observing bluebirds foraging for termites can be a fascinating experience, showcasing their natural behaviors. You can also create a habitat that encourages termite presence while ensuring it’s safe for your garden.

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Final Thoughts

Understanding what bluebirds eat is essential for anyone looking to attract these beautiful birds to their yard. By providing a variety of foods such as mealworms, suet, fruits, and insects, you can create an inviting environment for bluebirds and other backyard birds. Remember to keep your feeding areas clean and free of spoiled food to promote the health and safety of your feathered friends. With a little effort and the right food, you’ll soon be enjoying the sights and sounds of bluebirds in your backyard.

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