Dealing with aggressive birds at bird feeders is a common frustration for backyard bird enthusiasts. Certain bird species tend to dominate feeders, scaring away smaller and more timid birds. However, there are effective techniques to deter bully birds and create a more equitable feeding environment for all your feathered visitors.
Why Do Some Birds Bully at Feeders?
Several factors lead to bullying behavior at bird feeders:
Size Difference
Larger bird species can easily intimidate smaller ones. Birds like grackles, blue jays, and blackbirds are significantly bigger than chickadees, nuthatches, and finches. The smaller birds don’t stand a chance and get chased away.
Aggressive Nature
Some birds are naturally more aggressive. Male birds can be territorial and chase away anything they perceive as a threat or competition for food resources. Female birds can get aggressive when feeding their young.
Foraging Behavior
Birds have different foraging strategies. Larger bully birds prefer platform feeders where they can gorge on seeds. Smaller birds prefer tubes and hopper feeders that dispense seeds slowly. The bullies take over the preferred feeders and monopolize the food supply.
Peak Activity Times
Some birds are more active in the mornings and evenings. If their feeding time coincides with the smaller birds, the bullies overwhelm the feeders and prevent the timid ones from approaching.
Scarcity of Resources
When feeders are spaced too close together or food availability is limited, competition sets in. The more aggressive birds ensure they get most of the limited food.
Worst Bully Bird Species
The most common and bothersome feeder bullies include:
European Starlings
Starlings travel in large noisy flocks and can devour feeders in minutes, leaving nothing for other birds. They are aggressive, gluttonous, and do not share. Starlings routinely chase away all the smaller native species.
Blue Jays
A voracious feeder bird, blue jays screech loudly to announce their presence. While beautiful, they are territorial and will swoop in to steal food meant for other birds. Jays have strong sharp beaks that can also injure other birds.
Red-winged Blackbirds
Abundant in numbers, these birds flock to platforms and open feeders in droves. They clutter the feeder area leaving no room for timid birds. Male red-wings are especially aggressive and chase away birds through aerial attacks.
Common Grackles
Grackles bully with their sheer size and bulk. They monopolize platform feeders and ravage seed supplies rapidly. Very messy eaters, they scatter seeds and waste food that could feed 30 smaller birds with the amount one grackle consumes.
House Sparrows
An adaptable exotic species, house sparrows compete intensely for any food source they find. They move in noisy groups and chirp incessantly to distract other birds from the feeders. Sparrows will also peck at other birds to shoo them away.
Bird Feeder Placement Tips to Deter Bullies
Strategic feeder placement and spacing can create a safer feeding environment and allow birds to eat without fear of being bullied.
Avoid Overcrowding
Do not cluster feeders too close together. Overcrowding enables dominant birds to control all the feeders at once.
Use Multiple Small Feeders
Rather than a few large feeders, use several smaller tube and hopper feeders spaced 6-10 feet apart horizontally. Small feeders accommodate fewer birds at once.
Separate by Height
Place feeders at different heights and depths to cater to different species. Small birds prefer low-mounted feeders 5-6 feet high while larger birds can access those up to 10 feet high.
Look for Cover
Situate feeders near or within shrubs, trees and other cover sought by timid species. They can duck into foliage if bullies approach.
Provide Window Feeders
Special feeders affixed to windows let you watch activity up close while keeping feeders isolated and not competing for space.
Offer Sheltered Feeders
Feeders with roofs, tails or covers provide protected access points for shy birds to grab some seeds. Hopper feeders often have tails that block entry for larger bully birds.
Use Yard Barriers
Use decorative fencing or plant thick hedges to section off part of the yard for bird feeding stations. This creates a safe zone bullies are deterred from entering.
Tailored Bird Feeders to Deter Bullies
The style of bird feeder greatly influences what birds can access the seeds. Certain feeder types restrict access for domineering birds and allow smaller ones to feed undisturbed.
Tube Feeders
Long, narrow tube feeders with small perches and seed ports are perfect for chickadees, finches, nuthatches and similar small birds. Bulky birds cannot perch on the tiny ports. Hang tubes at least 5 feet high.
Hopper Feeders
These feeders have specialized openings sized for small beaks over bins that hold birdseed. The openings prevent large birds from gobbling up all the seed. Use hoppers with weight sensitive perches to shut off access if a big bird lands.
Suet Feeders
Suet feeders offer high-protein suet cakes or nuggets to attract woodpeckers, wrens and other insect-eating birds. Use cages with tail props and tiny openings to keep large birds out.
Thistle Feeders
Containing small holes and mesh-covered pods, thistle feeders dispense nyjer seeds loved by finches and siskins. Only tiny bills can reach the seed, keeping big bullies at bay.
Orioles Feeders
Designed for fruit-loving orioles, these feeders exclude other species. The long, flexible perches discourage big birds. Place them on the outskirts of activity as orioles dislike crowds.
Hummingbird Feeders
The urban myth that red dye deters bees is false. Specialized hummingbird feeders have built-in bee guards and raised perches to accommodate a hummingbird’s unique feeding method. Other birds cannot access the nectar.
Best Feeder Locations to Avoid Bullies
Where you place feeders on your property impacts the likelihood of problems with aggressive birds. Choose locations that give small birds an advantage.
Within 3 Feet of Windows
Small birds feel safest feeding very close to windows where they can duck into the reflection to evade predators. Bullies avoid window collisions so give timid birds this advantage.
Near Dense Bushes and Trees
Finches, wrens and other small birds can dart quickly into thick vegetation if spooked at a feeder. Open feeder areas favor the more bold species.
Corner of Yard Next to Fence or Hedge
Sections bounded on multiple sides feel more sheltered and enclosed. Situate feeders in these “hidden” areas so timid birds can eat without constantly scanning for danger.
Far from Bird Baths and Ponds
Larger birds congregate at water sources and will ravage any feeders nearby after taking a drink. Keep feeders at least 25 feet distant.
Front or Side Yard Rather Than Back
The front and sides of homes see more human activity which shy birds prefer. The secluded backyard appeals more to jays, grackles and other brazen birds.
Creative Solutions to Control Bully Birds
If aggressive species continue dominating your feeders, some creative fixes can help even the playing field:
Install Squirrel Baffles
Squirrel deterrents like baffles also hinder large birds from clinging to feeder poles and dominate the food supply. Slippery surfaces around poles also help.
Use Weight-Sensitive Perches
These perches temporarily close feeder ports if heavy birds like grackles land on them. After a few failed attempts, bully birds will stop trying to access these feeders.
Employ Audible Bird Distress Calls
Devices emitting distress calls of certain bird species scare away others of the same type. Blue jay distress calls deter jays but not smaller birds.
Install a Squirrel Feeder
Put up a dedicated feeder with foods squirrels and bully birds prefer. This gives them an alternative food source away from songbird feeders.
Use Food Dye
Adding harmless food dye like red hot pepper powder to seed mixes deters certain birds. Try using different colors on different feeders to visually attract or repel specific species.
Offer Less Preferred Foods
Platform trays and large hoppers with sunflower seeds and corn attract the most aggression. Eliminate these foods in favor of nyjer, safflower and fruit that appeal less to bullies.
Timed Seed Dispensers
These devices only release small amounts of seed at intervals throughout the day. This prevents large birds from gorging and allows timid ones brief windows to eat.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Bully Bird Issues
Aside from tailored feeder set-ups, certain general yard improvements can discourage bully birds from taking over in the first place:
Restrict Food Volume
Don’t overflow feeders or scatter lots of loose seeds on the ground. Abundant food resources enable dominant birds to hog everything. Offer smaller amounts over more feedings.
Provide Open Space Between Feeders
Wide open areas with good visibility let small birds spot approaching bullies sooner. They have time to flee to safety before getting displaced from feeders.
Ensure Adequate Water Sources
Birds flock to feeders after visiting water sources. Providing abundant bird baths, drippers and fountains reduces competition at feeders.
Offer Shelter and Roosting Spots
Logs, brush piles, bird houses and roosting boxes give timid birds refuge after visiting feeders to eat. Nearby shelter enables them to avoid unnecessary exposure.
Landscape Natural Food Sources
Planting berry bushes and seed producing flowers provides supplemental food to decrease reliance solely on feeders. This takes pressure off feeder competition.
Clean Feeders Regularly
Keep feeders clean to prevent bacteria and fungi that can sicken birds. Well-maintained feeders encourage higher traffic from desirable species.
Use Selective Caging
Enclose specific feeders in wire cages that allow small birds to pass through but keep out larger ones. This restricts feeder access to bully birds.
Try Timing Your Feedings
Observe when the timid birds are most active and time your feeder refills accordingly. This ensures the seeds last longer for the intended species.
Discouraging Specific Backyard Bully Birds
Dealing with the most common bully bird species takes some customized strategies:
Starlings
- Use tube and hopper feeders only
- Avoid fruits, mealworms and open platform feeders they prefer
- Attach feeders to windows out of reach
- Use feeders with weight activated perches
- Feed during starling migration seasons when fewer are present
Blue Jays
- Offer peanuts in the shell which slows down greedy jays
- Install tall window feeders and suet cages out of jay’s reach
- Place birdhouses nearby so jays focus on guarding those
- Use feeders made of natural wood which jays avoid
- Remove other existing birdhouses and limit nest sites
Grackles
- Eliminate platform feeders completely
- Set up multiple small tube feeders on a metal pole that deters perching
- Use feeders with cage elements and tail props to block grackles
- Coat feeder pole and ports with vegetable oil to make grasping difficult
- Place feeders in open areas lacking shrubs or cover sought by grackles
Red-winged Blackbirds
- Surround feeders with large open expanses via mowing or gravel
- Install feeders near human activity like footpaths
- Employ shiny spinning objects, old CDs or dangling balloons to startle them
- Avoid foods like sunflower hearts and corn which red-wings prefer
- Use call playback devices with red-wing alarm and distress calls
House Sparrows
- Place feeders very close to windows and homes
- Use tube feeders with small perches and ports
- Install feeders on porches and decks away from dense hedges
- Limit sparrow-preferred foods like millet and bread
- Discourage nesting sites like blocked vents, gaps and ledges
Types of Birds Bullied at Feeders
While some birds are natural bullies, many delightful and beneficial species get pushed out of feeders by aggressive birds. Understanding which species get bullied helps you choose solutions to assist them.
Chickadees
One of the most displaced birds, chickadees are small and prefer black-oil sunflower seeds, suet and peanuts. Tube feeders mounted at 5-6 feet near trees help them avoid scraps with larger birds.
Goldfinches
Dainty nyjer seed lovers, goldfinches lose fights with jays and grackles over any feeder space. Separate thistle feeders on tall poles in open areas help attract flocks of these wild canary relatives.
Nuthatches
Tiny upside-down feeder birds, white-breasted nuthatches scavenge for leftover bits other birds miss. They get chased away easily and benefit from low suet cages near tree trunks.
Titmice
Actively chased by jays and grackles, titmice need sturdy hopper feeders or tubes near hedges where they can escape. They enjoy black-oil sunflower and safflower.
Woodpeckers
Specialized suet feeders with tail props and tiny openings allow woodpeckers, sapsuckers and flickers access to suet, keeping away bullies. They also appreciate peanut butter smeared into pine cones.
Warblers and Vireos
Delicate warblers rely on suet for energy during migration but get elbowed away from feeders by other birds. Low suet cages near dense bushes offer cover where they can sneak a quick bite.
Wrens
These tiny energetic birds subsist on suet nuggets and meat-filled mealworms. Feeders tailored to their size and with nearby brush piles for cover are best for wrens.
Sparrows
Not the bully house sparrows, native sparrow species are ground feeders that cannot compete at elevated feeders. Scatter millet and white proso seeds on ground away from feeders to attract song, chipping, and white-throated sparrows.
Juncos
Another shy ground feeding bird, juncos will wait under feeders to catch dropped seeds but avoid altercations with other birds. Open platform trays on the ground help juncos stock up on fill in winter.
Stop Bully Birds and Feed Everyone Fairly
Bird feeding should be an enjoyable hobby that supports native wild birds. By choosing specialized feeders and techniques to exclude aggressive species, you can create a safe, relaxing sanctuary full of colorful birds. Observe bullying activity, identify the perpetrators, and take steps to deter their dominance. Be willing to experiment with different set-ups until discovering what works best for your unique backyard situation. With some thoughtful adjustments, you can happily watch a diverse feathered community thriving together at your well-tended oasis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stopping Bully Birds at Feeders
Q: What are some effective bird feeders to deter bully birds from dominating?
Tube feeders, hopper feeders, suet cages with tail props, thistle feeders and hummingbird feeders all restrict access for large bully birds. Their specialized perches, seed ports and entrances favor smaller bird species.
Q: How far apart should bird feeders be spaced to prevent bullying?
Space bird feeders at least 6-10 feet apart horizontally to avoid crowding where bullies take over. For especially aggressive birds like blue jays, separate feeders by 15-20 feet or more.
Q: Where is the best place to position bird feeders in the yard to avoid bully birds?
The front or sides of houses near windows and human activity, in sheltered nooks bounded by fences or hedges, and within cover like trees or bushes helps timid species evade bullies.
Q: What are some creative ways to control dominant bully birds at feeders?
Using feeders with weight sensitive perches, distress call devices, food additives like dye or hot pepper powder, timed seed dispensers and installing squirrel deterrents can all help deter bullies.
Q: How do I stop specific bully bird species like starlings, jays, grackles, blackbirds and sparrows?
Tailored solutions like selective feeder styles and locations, use of feeder deterrents, eliminating favored foods, and strategic habitat modifications can target each bully species’ unique habits.
Q: What are some small bird species that get bullied the most at bird feeders?
Chickadees, nuthatches, titmice, goldfinches, downy woodpeckers, warblers, wrens, sparrows, and juncos are some small birds that commonly get chased off feeders by aggressive species.
Q: Should I put out separate bird feeders in different parts of my yard?
Yes, having multiple smaller feeders in separate spots allows timid birds to find “safe zones” away from more aggressive species that may dominate the main feeder area.
Q: How often should I clean my bird feeders to help discourage bully birds?
Clean feeders at least every 2-4 weeks to prevent harmful mold and bacteria growth. Routine cleaning also reduces residual food buildup that can attract bully birds.
Q: If a bully bird is injured or becomes ill, should I help rehabilitate it?
Leave rehabilitation of sick, injured or orphaned bully birds to licensed wildlife rehabilitators. Avoid handling without proper training as you may do more harm than good.
Conclusion
Dominant and aggressive bird behavior can negatively impact the diversity of