what do bluebirds like to eat

2 min read 11-01-2025

Bluebirds are captivating creatures known for their vibrant plumage and melodious songs. Attracting these beautiful birds to your backyard requires understanding their dietary needs. This comprehensive guide explores what bluebirds eat, offering tips for providing the best food sources to support a thriving bluebird population.

The Bluebird's Diet: A Mix of Insects and Fruit

Bluebirds are insectivores, meaning insects form the bulk of their diet. However, they also enjoy a variety of fruits and berries, especially during certain seasons. Understanding this balance is crucial for successfully attracting and feeding bluebirds.

Insects: The Primary Food Source

Beetles: Bluebirds readily consume various beetle species, including ground beetles and weevils.
Grasshoppers and Crickets: These hopping insects are a significant protein source for bluebirds.
Caterpillars: Various moth and butterfly caterpillars are readily consumed, especially during nesting season when young need substantial protein for growth.
Ants and other small insects: These provide supplemental protein and nutrients.

Fruit and Berries: Seasonal Supplements

While insects dominate their diet, bluebirds also appreciate fruits and berries, especially when insects become scarcer.

Sumac berries: A readily available and favored berry source in many regions.
Mulberries: Another popular choice, offering essential sugars and nutrients.
Dogwood berries: These small berries provide a valuable food source during fall and winter.
Other soft berries: Bluebirds are opportunistic feeders and will sample various berries available in their habitat.

How to Feed Bluebirds: Best Practices

Providing a suitable food source is key to attracting bluebirds to your yard. Here are some practical tips:

Avoid Bread and Other Human Foods

Bread and other human foods lack the nutritional value bluebirds need. These foods can be harmful and should never be offered.

Supplement Natural Food Sources

Focus on creating a habitat that supports insect populations. This means reducing pesticide use and providing habitat elements like shrubs and flowers that attract insects.

Consider Using a Bluebird Feeder

Bluebird feeders are specifically designed to cater to their feeding habits. They often have perches and are sized appropriately.

What to Put in a Bluebird Feeder?

While bluebirds primarily forage for insects, you can supplement their diet with mealworms (live or dried), especially during lean times or when raising young.

Live mealworms: These are a highly nutritious and attractive option.
Dried mealworms: A convenient alternative that can be stored and offered as needed.

Seasonal Dietary Needs

Bluebird diets vary throughout the year. Insects are essential throughout the breeding season to fuel nestlings' growth. As the seasons change, fruits and berries become more important.

Creating a Bluebird-Friendly Habitat

Beyond feeding, creating a welcoming habitat is crucial for attracting and supporting bluebird populations.

Provide nesting boxes: These offer safe nesting sites, protecting eggs and young from predators.
Plant native shrubs and trees: These provide shelter and attract insects.
Minimize pesticide use: Pesticides can harm insects, disrupting the bluebird's primary food source.

By understanding what bluebirds eat and implementing these recommendations, you can contribute to the conservation of these beautiful birds and enjoy their presence in your backyard. Remember, providing a diverse and natural food supply, along with a safe and suitable habitat, are key to attracting and supporting healthy bluebird populations.