Mealworms are a highly sought-after food supplement for attracting and nourishing wild birds in backyard settings. These are the larval stage of the darkling beetle, Tenebrio molitor, not true worms. They offer a concentrated source of nutrition that complements the standard seed diet, making them a popular treat for a wide variety of feathered visitors. Providing these insect larvae helps bird enthusiasts expand the diversity of species frequenting their feeders beyond common seed-eaters.
Species Highly Attracted to Mealworms
Mealworms are particularly appealing to species classified as insectivores or “soft-billed” birds, which naturally rely on insects and their larvae for their diet. The Eastern Bluebird is perhaps the most famous mealworm enthusiast, often becoming a regular visitor to yards where this food is consistently offered. Bluebirds find mealworms irresistible, making them a highly effective tool for attracting this colorful species.
American Robins, known for foraging on the ground for earthworms, readily accept mealworms from trays and ground feeders, especially during the breeding season. Other species that typically avoid traditional seed feeders are also drawn in, including Wrens, such as the Carolina and House Wren, which thrive on the high-energy boost the larvae provide. Mockingbirds and Catbirds, which have a mixed diet of fruit and insects, are also frequent consumers.
Woodpeckers, including the Downy and Hairy species, will readily take mealworms as a valuable supplement, especially when their natural insect sources are scarce. Small, active birds like Nuthatches, Chickadees, and Titmice also enjoy them, often snatching them quickly to eat or cache. While many seed-eating birds like Cardinals may occasionally eat a mealworm, the greatest success is seen with those whose natural diet is insect-based.
Nutritional Value for Wild Birds
Mealworms are prized for their concentrated nutrient profile, which provides a significant boost compared to many commercial birdseeds. Dried mealworms contain approximately 53% protein and 28% fat, while live mealworms contain about 20% protein and 13% fat, with a much higher moisture content. This high protein concentration is particularly beneficial during the nesting season, as parent birds require a protein-rich diet to feed their fast-growing young.
The substantial fat content provides a dense source of energy, which is important for birds preparing for migration or needing to maintain warmth during cold weather. Mealworms are best offered as a supplement rather than a sole food source because they have a low calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, which is not ideal for bone health if consumed exclusively. Providing them alongside a balanced diet ensures birds receive the full spectrum of necessary nutrients.
Methods for Successful Feeding
Mealworms are available in both live and dried forms, and the choice depends on bird preference and feeder logistics. Live mealworms are often more appealing to birds because their movement mimics natural prey, and they also provide essential hydration for nestlings. They should be offered in specialized smooth-sided feeders or deep dishes to prevent them from crawling out.
Dried mealworms are more convenient to store and handle, but they should ideally be soaked in warm water for 10 to 30 minutes before serving. Soaking softens the exoskeleton, making them easier to digest, and restores some of the moisture content lost during the drying process. Mealworms, regardless of form, are best presented in open tray feeders or shallow dishes, as they are often consumed by ground-feeding birds like Robins and Blackbirds. Placing the feeders slightly away from aggressive seed-eaters can help ensure the more timid insectivores have access to this valuable treat.