Looking for the best bird seed for Blue Jays?
Check out our comprehensive buyer’s guide with tips and top picks to attract these beautiful birds to your backyard.
Here’s everything you need to know…
List of Top 6 Best Bird Seed for Blue Jays 2023
Here’s a comparison table of the best bird seed for Blue Jays in 2023:
Last update on 2024-11-05 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Check out the individual products below…
1. Wagner’s 76027 Black Oil Sunflower
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Last update on 2024-11-04 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The leading ingredient in Wagner’s bird feed is black oil sunflower seed.
These are one of the most popular types of food among wild birds because they provide essential nutrition and energy.
Specifications
Brand | Wagner’s |
---|---|
Target Species | Bird |
Item Form | Seed |
Specific Uses For Product | Wild Bird Food |
Unit Count | 400.0 Ounce |
Country of Origin | Made in the USA |
Food Content
In addition, black oil sunflower seeds have a higher fat and protein content than other types of birdseed, making them especially attractive to Blue Jays.
And they need that extra sustenance during the colder months when other food sources may be scarce.
Wagner’s bird feed is also made with no fillers or added chemicals—it’s 100% all-natural!
This means that not only will your feathered friends get the nutrition they need, but you won’t have to worry about any artificial ingredients or preservatives in their diets.
Plus, this bird feeder is free from dust and debris so you don’t have to worry about messy cleanup after feeding time.
Bag
Finally, this bird seed comes in an easy-to-use 25 lb bag that makes it ideal for both small and large backyards alike.
Whether you have just a few birds visiting your yard or dozens upon dozens of Blue Jays stopping by each day, this bag has enough food to keep all of them happy!
Plus, it has an airtight seal that helps keep pests out and ensures maximum freshness for longer periods of time.
Pros
- 100% all-natural ingredients, no fillers or added chemicalsnHigher fat and protein content than other types of birdseednFree from dust and debris for a cleaner feeding experiencenEasy-to-use 25 lb bag, perfect for both small and large backyardsn
Cons
- May attract squirrels that could get into bird feedersnHigher price point than other types of birdseedn
2. Wildlife Sciences High Energy Suet Cake
Last update on 2024-11-03 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Suet is a common bird food made from rendered beef fat or vegetable shortening blended with other ingredients like grains, seeds, and fruits.
Specifications
Brand | Wildlife Sciences |
---|---|
Flavor | Suet |
Age Range Description | All Life Stages |
Target Species | Bird |
Item Form | Pellet |
Pack Size | 10-Pack |
Package Weight | 10.5 oz per suet cake |
Dimensions | 4.5” x 4.5” x 1” per suet cake |
Country of Origin | Made in the USA |
It provides a great source of energy in cold weather when other sources of food are scarce.
Additionally, some species rely on suet cakes as a primary source of nutrition during the winter months.
Suet
Wildlife Sciences High Energy Suet Cake 10 Pack is designed to meet the needs of many species, including woodpeckers, chickadees, wrens, Blue Jays, titmice, and more!
These suet cakes are made with premium ingredients that are sure to entice even the pickiest of birds.
Easy To Use
Plus they’re easy to use—simply hang them from a tree branch or feeder and watch as your feathered friends flock in droves!
The 10-pack also includes two different types of suet cakes—regular and hot pepper flavors—so you can try out both flavors without having to buy separate packs.
Design
The hot pepper variety has been designed specifically for attracting feathered visitors who have grown accustomed to humans and have started raiding backyard bird feeders instead of natural sources of food.
Wild birds who are given access to these high-energy cakes will be able to stay healthy throughout the year while also providing you with hours of enjoyment!
Pros
- Easy to usenIncludes two different flavorsnHigh energy contentnAttracts a variety of birdsn
Cons
- May require more frequent filling than other feedersnSome birds may be intimidated by the hot pepper flavor and avoid it altogether n
3. Wagner’s 62053 Nyjer Seed
Last update on 2024-11-05 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Wagner’s 62053 Nyjer Seed Wild Bird Food is packed with essential nutrients that will keep your wild birds healthy and full of energy.
Specifications
Brand | Wagner’s |
---|---|
Target Species | Bird |
Item Form | Seeds |
Specific Uses For Product | Active |
Unit Count | 320 Ounce |
Country of Origin | Made in the USA |
Nutritional Value
Not only does it contain high-quality Nyjer seed, but it also has calcium and other minerals to help promote strong bones and feathers in the birds that visit your backyard.
Plus, it contains no fillers or additives like many other bird foods on the market today.
Nyjer seed
Nyjer seed is one of the most beloved seeds among wild birds, which makes Wagner’s 62053 Nyjer Seed Wild Bird Food an ideal choice if you want to attract a variety of species to your yard.
From cardinals to finches and more, this feed will draw all types of wild birds so you can enjoy watching them come and go from day to day.
It’s also designed not to attract pests like squirrels or mice so you won’t have any unwanted visitors hanging around your feeder either.
This 20-pound bag of Wagner’s 62053 Nyjer Seed Wild Bird Food comes in a convenient resealable bag that makes it easy to store without having to worry about spillage or messiness.
Extras
It also comes with an easy pour spout that allows you to quickly fill up your feeder without making a huge mess in the process.
The resealable bag also helps keep moisture out so the seed stays fresh longer than if it was stored in another type of container or left uncovered outdoors.
All in all, Wagner’s 62053 Nyjer Seed Wild Bird Food is an excellent choice if you’re looking for nutritious feed for backyard birds.
Verdict
Not only does it contain essential nutrients like calcium for strong bones and feathers, but it also attracts all types of wild birds so you can enjoy watching them come and go from day to day without attracting pests like squirrels or mice too!
Plus, its convenient packaging makes storage and use simple too – what more could you ask for?
Pros
- Packed with essential nutrientsnContains high-quality Nyjer seednAttracts a variety of bird speciesnComes in a resealable bag with an easy-pour spoutn
4. Lyric Peanut Pieces Wild Bird Seed
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Last update on 2024-11-04 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This wild bird seed is packed with nutrients and energy to keep your birds happy and healthy.
Specifications
Brand | Lyric |
---|---|
Flavor | Peanut |
Age Range Description | All Life Stages |
Target Species | Squirrel |
Item Form | Feeders |
Package Weight | 15 lbs |
Country of Origin | Made in the USA |
Ingredients
It contains a mix of sunflower meats, cracked corn, peanuts, and other ingredients all designed to provide optimal nutrition for a variety of birds.
The ingredients are also 100% edible.
Which means there will be no shells or hulls left behind on the ground as a result—a common problem associated with other types of bird seeds!
Additionally, this product does not contain any filler ingredients like milo or wheat; it’s all quality, nutritionally-rich food for your feathered friends.
Resealable Bag
This comes in an easy-to-use resealable bag:
Perfect for storing out on the porch or in the garage during those winter months when you don’t want to leave food out overnight!
The bag also helps ensure that the contents remain fresh and safe from contamination by outdoor pests or debris.
Lastly, this bird seed can last up to four weeks in an unopened package, so you won’t have to worry about replenishing your supply too frequently.
Cheap
Finally, if you’re looking for an economical option with plenty of nutritional value, then look no further than Lyric Peanut Pieces Wild Bird Seed!
A 15 lb bag retails at just under $20 dollars and can last even longer when stored properly—making it one of the most cost-effective options available on the market today!
Pros
- Nutritious mix of sunflower meats, cracked corn, peanuts, and other ingredientsnNo shells or hulls – less mess in the yard!nResealable packaging perfect for storage during colder monthsnBudget-friendly price tagn
Cons
- May contain small pieces which can be choking hazard to smaller birdsnNot suitable for hummingbirds or other insect-eating birds.n
5. Premium Peanuts in Shell Wildlife Food
Last update on 2024-11-04 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Premium peanuts in the shell offer a nutritious food source for wild birds and wildlife.
Peanuts contain high levels of proteins, fats, and oils that can boost energy levels, enhance the immune system and increase overall vitality in wild birds.
Specifications
Brand | Desert Valley Supply |
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Flavor | Peanut |
Age Range Description | All Life Stages |
Target Species | Bird |
Item Form | Peanuts |
Package Weight | 5 lbs |
Country of Origin | Grown and Packaged in the USA |
Vitamins
Premium peanuts also contain important vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamine, biotin, and vitamin E that help support healthy bones and feathers in wild birds.
The shells themselves also have several benefits for wild birds.
Not only do they provide an extra source of nutrition with their own nutritional value:
But the shells also act as a calcium supplement for birds by providing them with additional calcium that helps boost bone strength.
Protection From Predators
In addition, the shells provide an additional layer of protection from predators when eaten by a bird or squirrel who is hiding out on the ground or in grasses away from danger.
Not only do they offer high levels of protein content along with essential fats and oils needed for good health.
And they also provide an added layer of protection from predators thanks to their hard shells.
Plus they can easily be found online in 5-pound bags so you never have to worry about running out!
Pros
- High levels of proteins, fats, and oilsnImportant vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamine, biotin, and vitamin EnExtra layer of protection from predators with their hard shellsnEasily found online in 5-pound bagsn
Cons
- Not suitable for species that can’t crack the shell such as hummingbirdsnCan be more expensive than other birdseed optionsn
6. Kaytee Cracked Corn
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Last update on 2024-11-05 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Kaytee Cracked Corn is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to ensure your birds are getting everything they need in their diet.
Specifications
Brand | Kaytee |
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Flavor | Other |
Age Range Description | All Life Stages |
Target Species | Wild Birds |
Item Form | Seeds |
Package Weight | 4 lbs |
Country of Origin | Unknown |
Omega Fats
It also contains added Omega 3 fatty acids, which help maintain a healthy immune system, promote cardiovascular health, and boost the overall nutrition in your flock’s diet.
The cracked corn itself is high in carbohydrates and protein—a great source of energy for your birds!
Mixing
For optimal results, we recommend mixing it with other grains like wheat or oats so that your birds get all the nutrients they need in their diet.
Additionally, make sure that you are providing plenty of fresh water when feeding Kaytee Cracked Corn.
Keeping water available helps ensure that your birds stay hydrated while eating this tasty treat!
Verdict
It provides essential vitamins and minerals that help keep your birds healthy and well-nourished while also offering a delicious snack they will enjoy.
Plus, it’s easy to feed:
Just mix it into their daily ration or offer it as a treat! With Kaytee Cracked Corn, you can rest assured knowing that you’re giving your feathered friends only the best nutrition possible.
Pros
- Fortified with essential vitamins and mineralsnAdded Omega 3 fatty acids for a healthier immune systemnAffordable feed optionn
Cons
- Needs to be paired with other grains for optimal resultsnNeed to provide plenty of fresh water when feedingn
How To Attract Blue Jays: Proven Strategies
Blue Jays are attracted to yards with open spaces and mature trees.
They are also known to be territorial birds and will defend their food sources, so make sure to provide enough space and resources for multiple Blue Jays.
Here are some proven strategies to attract Blue Jays to your yard:
Provide a reliable water source
Blue Jays need water for drinking and bathing.
Providing a reliable water source will attract them to your yard.
You can use a birdbath or a shallow dish filled with water.
Make sure to change the water regularly to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria.
Offer a variety of food sources
Blue Jays are omnivores, which means they eat both plant and animal-based foods.
Offering a variety of food sources will attract them to your yard.
Blue Jays prefer nuts, fruits, and insects, but they will also eat seeds.
Providing a mix of these foods will ensure that you attract a diverse group of birds to your yard.
Use bird feeders
Bird feeders are a great way to attract Blue Jays to your yard.
Use a hopper or platform feeder with a large capacity to hold a variety of foods.
Make sure to place the feeder in an open space where the birds can easily access it.
Also, make sure to clean the feeder regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria.
How to Choose the Best Bird Seed For Blue Jays
When choosing bird seed for Blue Jays, it is important to choose high-quality seeds that are free from filler ingredients.
Blue Jays prefer larger seeds, such as peanuts, sunflower seeds, and safflower seeds.
Here are some tips to help you choose the best bird seed for Blue Jays.
Look for high-quality seeds
The quality of the seeds you choose is essential. Look for seeds that are free from filler ingredients such as milo and wheat.
These ingredients are often used to fill out birdseed mixes, but Blue Jays will often leave them behind.
Look for seeds that are specifically marketed for Blue Jays, or choose individual seeds such as peanuts, sunflower seeds, and safflower seeds.
Choose larger seeds
Blue Jays have strong beaks, which means they can crack open larger seeds.
Choose seeds that are larger in size, such as peanuts and sunflower seeds.
Safflower seeds are also a great choice as they have a thick shell that Blue Jays can easily crack open.
Provide a mix of foods
Blue Jays prefer a mix of foods, so providing a variety of seeds, nuts, fruits, and insects will attract them to your yard.
Consider mixing sunflower seeds, peanuts, and safflower seeds to create a birdseed mix that Blue Jays will love.
Avoid birdseed mixes with red dyes
Some birdseed mixes contain red dyes, which can be harmful to birds.
Blue Jays are attracted to bright colors, but red dyes can be toxic to them.
Avoid birdseed mixes that contain red dyes, and opt for natural seeds instead.
Types of Bird Seed For Blue Jays
Blue Jays prefer larger seeds, such as peanuts, sunflower seeds, and safflower seeds.
These seeds are high in fat and protein, which provide the Blue Jays with the energy they need to survive.
Here are some of the best bird seeds for Blue Jays:
Peanuts
Peanuts are a favorite food of Blue Jays.
They are high in fat and protein, which provide the Blue Jays with the energy they need.
You can use raw or roasted peanuts to attract Blue Jays to your yard.
Make sure to remove the shells before feeding the peanuts to the birds.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are another favorite food of Blue Jays.
They are large and easy for the birds to crack open with their beaks.
Make sure to use black oil sunflower seeds as they are higher in fat and protein than other varieties.
Safflower Seeds
Safflower seeds have a thick shell that Blue Jays can easily crack open.
They are high in fat and protein, making them a great food source for Blue Jays.
Safflower seeds are also a good choice if you are trying to attract other birds to your yard as they are not a favorite food of squirrels.
Types of Bird Seed You SHOULD NOT Use to Attract Blue Jays
When it comes to attracting Blue Jays to your yard, it is important to use the right type of bird seed.
Some bird seeds are not suitable for Blue Jays and can be harmful to them.
Here are some types of bird seed you should avoid using to attract Blue Jays:
Millet
Millet is a common filler ingredient in birdseed mixes. It is small and often overlooked by Blue Jays.
Millet can also attract unwanted birds, such as House Sparrows and European Starlings.
Wheat
Wheat is another common filler ingredient in birdseed mixes. It is not a favorite food of Blue Jays and is often left behind.
Wheat can also attract unwanted birds, such as House Sparrows and European Starlings.
Corn
Corn is a favorite food of squirrels and can attract them to your bird feeder.
Corn is also not a favorite food of Blue Jays and is often left behind.
How to Build a Bird Feeder for Blue Jays
Building a bird feeder for Blue Jays is a fun and easy project that you can do at home. Here’s how to build a bird feeder for Blue Jays:
Materials
- A large piece of wood, such as a 1×12 board
- Two smaller pieces of wood, such as 1×4 boards
- Screws
- Hinges
- Plexiglass
- Birdseed
Instructions
- Cut the large piece of wood to the desired size of your bird feeder.
- Cut the two smaller pieces of wood to the length of the bird feeder.
- Attach the two smaller pieces of wood to the large piece of wood using screws to create a “U” shape.
- Attach the hinges to the back of the large piece of wood.
- Cut the plexiglass to the size of the large piece of wood.
- Attach the plexiglass to the front of the large piece of wood using screws.
- Fill the bird feeder with birdseed.
- Hang the bird feeder in a location where the Blue Jays can easily access it.
What Is a Blue Jay’s Favorite Food
Blue Jays are omnivores, which means they eat both plant and animal-based foods.
They prefer larger seeds, such as peanuts, sunflower seeds, and safflower seeds.
Blue Jays also enjoy eating insects, fruits, and nuts.
Here are some of a Blue Jay’s favorite foods:
Peanuts
Peanuts are a favorite food of Blue Jays.
They are high in fat and protein, which provide the Blue Jays with the energy they need.
Blue Jays will often cache peanuts in the ground, burying them for later consumption.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are another favorite food of Blue Jays.
They are large and easy for the birds to crack open with their beaks.
Black oil sunflower seeds are the preferred variety for Blue Jays as they are higher in fat and protein than other varieties.
Safflower Seeds
Safflower seeds have a thick shell that Blue Jays can easily crack open.
They are high in fat and protein, making them a great food source for Blue Jays.
Safflower seeds are also a good choice if you are trying to attract other birds to your yard as they are not a favorite food of squirrels.
Insects
Blue Jays enjoy eating insects, especially caterpillars and beetles. Insects are a great source of protein and other nutrients for the birds.
You can attract insects to your yard by planting native plants and avoiding the use of pesticides.
Fruits
Blue Jays will eat a variety of fruits, including berries and apples.
They will often pluck the fruit from the tree and take it to a nearby branch to eat.
Providing a mix of fruits can attract a diverse group of birds to your yard.
Nuts
In addition to peanuts, Blue Jays will also eat a variety of other nuts, such as acorns and hickory nuts.
Nuts are a great source of fat and protein for Blue Jays and can be easily cached in the ground for later consumption.
FAQS About The Best Bird Seed For Blue Jays
What do blue jays like most?
Blue jays are omnivorous, so they enjoy a variety of foods. They particularly enjoy sunflower seeds, cracked corn, white proso millet, and peanuts. Additionally, blue jays also like to eat fruits and vegetables as well.
What is the favorite food of a blue jay?
The favorite food of a blue jay is sunflower seeds. They can eat large amounts of this seed at once, and they enjoy the taste. Additionally, they will also go after peanuts and cracked corn as well.
Will Blue Jays eat from a bird feeder?
Yes, bluejays will eat from a bird feeder. You should make sure the feeder has all of the food items mentioned above for optimal results. Make sure to keep the feeder filled so that your bluejay always has access to its favorite snacks.
Final Thoughts On Best Bird Seed For Blue Jays
Blue jays are an impressive and popular bird species, and they require special care when it comes to their diet.
The best bird seed for bluejays is a combination of sunflower seeds, cracked corn, white proso millet, and peanuts.
When feeding your bluejay, you should also provide plenty of fresh water in an easily accessible container. Additionally, blue jays will also benefit from a variety of fruits and vegetables.
This can help to ensure your bird gets a balanced diet with all of the vitamins and minerals it needs for optimal health.