Bluebirds are small, brightly colored songbirds, including the Eastern, Western, and Mountain species, primarily known for their insectivorous diet during the warmer months. Suet, which is essentially rendered animal fat, is a high-energy food commonly offered at backyard feeders. This fat-based product provides a dense source of calories that can supplement the bluebird’s natural intake. Whether these insect-focused birds accept this type of offering depends largely on the season and the composition of the suet itself.
Why Suet Attracts Bluebirds
Bluebirds readily consume suet, especially when their natural food sources are scarce, such as during cold winter weather or periods of prolonged rain. This high-calorie food is beneficial because it effectively mimics the nutritional profile of the insects and larvae that make up the majority of their summer diet. The dense fat content provides the immediate energy required for maintaining body temperature and surviving harsh conditions. While bluebirds are adept at catching insects, a lack of movement in cold-blooded prey makes foraging difficult in winter, so suet serves as a necessary dietary supplement.
Choosing the Right Suet Mix
Attracting bluebirds with suet relies heavily on selecting a mixture that closely resembles their preferred natural foods. The most appealing blends incorporate ingredients found in an insectivore’s diet, such as dried mealworms or rendered beef tallow. Many recipes use a base of rendered fat mixed with yellow cornmeal and flour to create a dough-like consistency. Bluebirds are especially drawn to small, soft components like peanut hearts, chopped nuts, or finely cut dried fruits such as raisins and currants. During warmer months, use “no-melt” suet, which contains stabilizing agents to prevent the fat from melting or turning rancid above 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Feeder Placement and Presentation
The presentation of suet significantly influences whether bluebirds will use the feeder, as they prefer an open, less acrobatic feeding style. Platform feeders or specialized bluebird feeders are often the most effective designs, allowing the birds to easily perch and access the food. Some specialized feeders feature small entry holes that deter larger, more aggressive birds like starlings. Optimal placement involves mounting the feeder at least five to six feet off the ground to protect against ground predators. Bluebirds appreciate a clear line of sight, so place the feeder in an open area, but keep it within 15 to 20 feet of a tree or shrub for quick cover.
Expanding the Bluebird Menu
While suet is a valuable offering, other foods should be provided to ensure a balanced diet, especially for nesting birds. Dried mealworms are a popular, high-protein option that can be offered alone or mixed into suet. Live mealworms are often even more enticing and are a favorite food during breeding season. Bluebirds also consume small pieces of fresh or dried fruit, such as chopped apples, pears, and blueberries, particularly when insects are scarce in the fall and winter. Providing a clean, fresh water source, such as a shallow birdbath, is also important year-round for both drinking and bathing.