What Types of Bird Seed to Feed Bluebirds: The Ultimate Guide for Backyard Birders

Wondering what bird seed attracts bluebirds? Learn the best types of bird food for bluebirds, what to avoid, and how to create a bluebird-friendly feeding station in your yard.

Why Choosing the Right Bird Seed for Bluebirds Matters

Eastern and Western Bluebirds are some of the most beloved backyard birds — known for their bright plumage and cheerful songs. However, unlike many seed-eating birds, bluebirds have a specialized diet. Feeding them the right types of food is key to keeping them healthy, happy, and returning to your yard year after year.

What Do Bluebirds Eat in the Wild?

In nature, bluebirds primarily eat insects and berries. Their diet includes:

• Beetles, caterpillars, crickets, and spiders

• Wild berries such as sumac, dogwood, and pokeweed

Because of this, traditional mixed bird seed often doesn’t appeal to bluebirds. They prefer softer foods and protein-rich options over hard seeds.

Best Bird Food and Seed for Bluebirds

1. Mealworms (Live or Dried)

🪱 Top Choice for Attracting Bluebirds
Mealworms are the gold standard of bluebird feeding. They mimic the birds’ natural diet and are packed with protein.
Tip: Offer live mealworms in a shallow dish or bluebird feeder during nesting season for best results.

2. Suet Pellets and Suet Cakes

🧈 Perfect for Winter Feeding
Suet provides the high energy bluebirds need in cold weather. Look for insect or mealworm-flavored suet, which mimics their preferred foods.

3. Dried Fruit and Berries

🍇 Bluebirds enjoy small pieces of dried cranberries, raisins, and blueberries, especially when insects are scarce in fall and winter.
Tip: Soak dried fruit in warm water to soften it before offering.

4. Specialty Bluebird Mixes

🌾 Some bird seed brands create “Bluebird Food Mixes” that contain a combination of:

• Dried mealworms

• Chopped nuts

• Cracked corn

• Sunflower chips

These mixes can be great for attracting bluebirds if live mealworms aren’t available.

What to Avoid Feeding Bluebirds

Avoid typical birdseed blends that contain:

• Millet

• Cracked corn (in large amounts)

• Black oil sunflower seeds

These are too hard for bluebirds and attract aggressive birds like starlings or sparrows.

Best Feeders for Bluebirds

Bluebirds prefer open platform feeders or bluebird-specific feeders with side entry holes. These feeders help keep out larger birds while allowing easy access for bluebirds.

Place the feeder:

• In an open area away from dense shrubs (to deter predators)

• Near perches or nesting boxes

• Clean and refill regularly to prevent mold and disease

Seasonal Feeding Tips

Attracting Bluebirds Year-Round

Feeding bluebirds isn’t just about offering the right food — it’s about creating a welcoming habitat. Pair your feeding station with nesting boxes, clean water sources, and native berry plants to turn your yard into a bluebird paradise.

With a little patience and the right food choices, you’ll soon enjoy the vibrant colors and melodic songs of bluebirds all year long.