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Want to feed blue jays in your yard while attracting other lovely birds you love?
Blue jays are known for their fierce protection. They are considered rude and harsh when it comes to sharing backyards with other birds. Especially while distributing feeder bird seed!
Blue jays are incredibly protective and may be one of the most aggressive bird species when guarding their nests and food supplies, yet they are not as harsh and unpleasant as they are generally portrayed.
Who are Blue Jays?
Blue jays, with their vibrant plumage and raucous calls, are a common sight in many North American backyards. These feisty birds belong to the Corvidae family, which includes other intelligent creatures like crows and ravens. Blue jays are medium-sized birds, averaging around 11 to 12 inches in length from beak to tail.
Physical Characteristics
They are known for their striking blue feathers on the upper body, contrasting with white underparts and black markings on their wings and tail. One of the most distinctive features of blue jays is their extravagant crest atop their heads. There are several blue jay myths. For one, unlike cardinals and other birds, not just males are colorful. Male and female blue jays are both vivid blue. Due to it, the sole variation is size, with males being larger.
The Crest: A Symbol of Mood
This majestic crown can be raised or lowered depending on their mood or level of excitement. It adds a touch of regal flair to their already captivating appearance.
Feeding Adaptations
Furthermore, blue jays have sturdy beaks that allow them to crack open acorns and nuts effortlessly.
Social Behavior
In terms of behavior, blue jays are highly social birds that tend to flock together in small groups or pairs during mating season.
Communication
They communicate through an assortment of calls – from high-pitched whistles to harsh squawks – which serve various purposes such as signaling danger or claiming territory. These vocalizations can sometimes become quite noisy, but it’s all part of the charm when it comes to these lively avian neighbors.
The Social Structure of Blue Jays
These birds are highly social creatures with a complex hierarchy. This understanding is crucial for keeping the peace at your feeders.
Blue Jays’ Favorite Foods
Blue Jays have a particular taste for certain foods. Offering the following can ensure they don’t dominate other feeders meant for different birds.
- Acorns
- Nuts (especially peanuts)
- Seeds (such as sunflower seeds)
- Fruits (like berries and wild fruits)
- Grains
- Suet
11 Tips to Creating a Blue Jay-Friendly Zone
In order to feed Blue Jays without frightening away other bird species, it is necessary to employ some strategy in regard to the behaviors and requirements of each species.
1. Separate Feeders
Place feeders for Blue Jays some distance away from feeders intended for smaller birds. Blue Jays are larger and can be aggressive, so having their own space can reduce conflicts.
2. Choose Sturdy, Large Feeders
Use robust feeders that can support the weight of Blue Jays, which are often too heavy for smaller feeders. This can naturally deter them from monopolizing feeders designed for smaller birds.
3. Use Specific Foods
Blue Jays love whole peanuts, large seeds, and suet. Offer these in their feeders to attract them specifically. Smaller birds tend to prefer smaller seeds, which you can place in different feeders.
4. Time Feedings
Blue Jays are early risers. You can fill their feeders in the morning and other feeders later in the day to create a feeding schedule that reduces competition.
5. Distract with Decoys
Place decoy feeders for Blue Jays. Once they establish a pattern of feeding at these decoys, they are less likely to bother the feeders for other birds.
6. Add Natural Cover
Provide natural cover like bushes and trees for smaller birds to retreat to if they feel threatened. This can also help to create a more secure and inviting environment for shy species.
7. Elevate Feeders
Smaller birds often feel safer at higher feeders. Place feeders for smaller birds at different heights to help them stay out of reach of Blue Jays.
8. Incorporate Platform Feeders
Blue Jays prefer platform feeders or feeders with a large perch area. By providing these, you can keep them satisfied and less interested in other feeders.
9. Provide Water Sources
Offer separate birdbaths and water sources. Blue Jays are attracted to water for drinking and bathing, and having their own water source can keep them occupied.
10. Clean Regularly
Keep all feeding areas clean to prevent the spread of disease and to keep feeders attractive to all birds.
11. Observe
Watch and observe how birds interact with the feeders and adjust your strategy as needed. Sometimes the dynamics can change with the seasons or as new birds visit your yard.
Conclusion: A Thriving Bird Community
With the right approach, your garden can become a haven for a diverse array of birds, all coexisting peacefully.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping feeders clean and well-maintained is essential for preventing disease and encouraging birds to return.
Observation and Adaptation
Regularly observe the interactions at your feeders and be willing to adapt your strategy to ensure all birds feel welcome.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to creating a bustling hub of avian activity that’s as diverse as it is delightful. Happy birdwatching to you!
