Red-winged blackbirds are drawn to bird seed blends that feature sunflower seeds and cracked corn. If you want more of these striking black birds with red shoulder patches at your feeder, choosing the best bird seed for more red winged blackbirds is the key. These birds are not picky eaters, but they do have clear preferences. In this guide, you will learn exactly what to offer, what to avoid, and how to set up your feeding station for maximum success.
Red-winged blackbirds are common across North America, especially near marshes and fields. They travel in flocks, especially during spring and fall. When you use the right seed, you can attract them consistently. Let’s get started.
Best Bird Seed For More Red Winged Blackbirds
The best bird seed for more red winged blackbirds is a mix that prioritizes black oil sunflower seeds and cracked corn. These two ingredients make up the bulk of what these birds eat in the wild. Sunflower seeds provide high fat and protein, which they need for energy. Cracked corn is a cheap, filling carb source that they love.
You can buy pre-made blends, but mixing your own is often cheaper and more effective. Here is what to look for:
- Black oil sunflower seeds – Thin shells, easy to crack, high oil content.
- Cracked corn – Medium or fine crack, not whole kernels.
- White millet – A secondary seed they will eat if available.
- Safflower seeds – Less preferred, but some birds will eat them.
Avoid blends with lots of milo, red millet, or filler seeds. Red-winged blackbirds will pick through those and leave a mess. Stick to simple, high-energy ingredients.
Why Sunflower Seeds Are Essential
Black oil sunflower seeds are the top choice for many birds, and red-winged blackbirds are no exception. The thin shell makes them easy to open. The kernel inside is rich in fat and protein. This is critical during migration and breeding season.
You can offer sunflower seeds in a hopper feeder, a tube feeder with large ports, or even scattered on the ground. Red-winged blackbirds are ground feeders by nature, so they will happily eat from a platform or the ground.
Cracked Corn: A Budget-Friendly Staple
Cracked corn is cheap and attractive to blackbirds. It is not as nutritious as sunflower seeds, but it provides quick energy. Many commercial blends use cracked corn as a base. If you mix your own, use about 40% cracked corn and 60% sunflower seeds.
Be careful with cracked corn in wet weather. It can mold quickly. Only put out what the birds will eat in a day or two. Store extra corn in a dry, cool place.
Other Seeds That Work
Red-winged blackbirds will also eat:
- White proso millet – Small seeds they pick up from the ground.
- Nyjer (thistle) seed – Not a favorite, but they may try it.
- Peanuts (unsalted, shelled) – High protein, but expensive.
Do not bother with milo, wheat, or oats. These are low-quality fillers that most birds ignore.
Feeder Types That Work Best
Choosing the right feeder is just as important as the seed. Red-winged blackbirds are medium-sized birds. They need a feeder that can hold their weight and allow them to perch comfortably.
Platform Feeders
Platform feeders are the best choice. They are flat, open trays that allow multiple birds to feed at once. Red-winged blackbirds are social and will come in flocks. A platform feeder gives them space to land and eat.
Place the feeder on a post or hang it low. They prefer feeding close to the ground. A height of 2 to 4 feet is ideal.
Hopper Feeders
Hopper feeders work well too. They have a roof to protect seed from rain. The seed dispenses into a tray at the bottom. Red-winged blackbirds can perch on the tray edges and eat.
Look for a hopper feeder with large perches. Small perches may be uncomfortable for them.
Ground Feeding
Red-winged blackbirds naturally forage on the ground. Sprinkling seed directly on the ground is the simplest method. Use a ground feeder tray or just scatter seed in a clean area. Be aware that ground feeding can attract squirrels and rodents. Clean up leftover seed daily.
Tube Feeders
Tube feeders are less effective for red-winged blackbirds. They prefer open spaces. If you use a tube feeder, choose one with large ports and sturdy perches. They may visit if other feeders are full.
When To Offer Seed For Best Results
Timing matters. Red-winged blackbirds are most active during spring and fall migration. In spring, males arrive first to establish territories. They are hungry after traveling. Offering seed in late February or early March can attract them.
In fall, they gather in large flocks before moving south. September through November is prime time. Keep feeders full during these months.
In summer, they may visit less often because natural food is abundant. But if you have a reliable feeder, some will stick around. In winter, they may stay in milder regions. Offer high-fat seeds like sunflower to help them survive cold nights.
How To Attract More Red-Winged Blackbirds
Getting the seed right is step one. Here are additional tips to bring in more birds:
- Provide water – A birdbath or shallow dish near the feeder attracts them. Change water daily.
- Create cover – Shrubs, tall grasses, or brush piles give them a place to hide from predators.
- Keep feeders clean – Dirty feeders spread disease. Wash them with soap and water every two weeks.
- Use multiple feeders – More feeding spots mean less competition. Spread them out.
- Be patient – It may take a few days for them to find your feeder. Once they do, they will return.
What To Avoid
Some things will scare red-winged blackbirds away or harm them:
- Predator decoys – Fake owls or hawks will keep them away.
- Loud noises – Keep the area quiet.
- Pesticides – They eat insects too. Chemicals can poison them.
- Old seed – Rancid or moldy seed is dangerous. Always use fresh seed.
Common Mistakes People Make
Even with the best seed, you might not see many red-winged blackbirds. Here are mistakes to avoid:
Using cheap blends. Many store-bought mixes are full of filler seed. Read the label. If milo or red millet is listed first, skip it.
Not offering cracked corn. Some people think corn is only for ducks. Red-winged blackbirds love it. Include it in your mix.
Feeder placement. Placing feeders too high or in open areas with no cover makes birds nervous. Put them near bushes or trees.
Ignoring seasonal changes. In summer, they eat more insects. In winter, they need more fat. Adjust your seed mix accordingly.
Mixing Your Own Seed Blend
Making your own blend is easy and cost-effective. Here is a simple recipe:
- 50% black oil sunflower seeds
- 30% cracked corn
- 10% white millet
- 10% peanuts or safflower seeds (optional)
Mix in a large bucket. Store in a sealed container. This blend is high in energy and low in waste. Red-winged blackbirds will clean it up quickly.
You can also add a small amount of suet or mealworms for extra protein. They will eat those too, especially during nesting season.
Understanding Red-Winged Blackbird Behavior
Knowing how these birds act helps you attract them. Males are territorial in spring. They will chase other birds away from feeders. If you see a male chasing others, do not worry. It is normal. Provide multiple feeding stations to reduce conflict.
Females are brown and streaky. They are less aggressive. They often feed in groups. Both sexes eat the same seeds.
Red-winged blackbirds are not shy. They will visit feeders even in urban areas. They adapt well to human presence.
Seasonal Feeding Guide
Spring
Offer high-protein seeds like sunflower. They need energy for breeding. Add mealworms if you can. They feed insects to their young.
Summer
Natural food is plentiful. Keep feeders full but expect fewer visits. Offer cracked corn and millet.
Fall
Flocks gather. Increase the amount of seed. Use platform feeders to accommodate many birds. Sunflower and corn are still best.
Winter
In colder areas, they may leave. If they stay, offer high-fat seeds. Black oil sunflower is perfect. Keep feeders free of snow.
How To Store Bird Seed Properly
Seed can go bad if not stored correctly. Here are tips:
- Use airtight containers like metal cans or plastic bins.
- Keep in a cool, dry place. Basements or garages work.
- Check for bugs or mold before refilling.
- Do not buy more than you can use in a month.
Bad seed smells musty or looks clumpy. Throw it away. Birds will avoid it anyway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bird seed for red winged blackbirds?
The best bird seed for red winged blackbirds is a mix of black oil sunflower seeds and cracked corn. These two seeds make up the majority of their diet at feeders.
Do red winged blackbirds eat from tube feeders?
They can, but they prefer platform or hopper feeders. Tube feeders with small perches are not ideal. Use feeders with large, sturdy perches if you want them to visit.
Will red winged blackbirds eat suet?
Yes, they will eat suet, especially during cold weather or nesting season. Offer suet cakes in a feeder with a tail prop for stability.
How do I keep squirrels away from red winged blackbird feeders?
Use squirrel baffles on poles. Place feeders away from trees and fences. Offer squirrel-proof feeders with weight-sensitive perches.
Can I attract red winged blackbirds with just cracked corn?
Yes, cracked corn alone will attract them. But adding sunflower seeds increases visits and provides better nutrition. A mix works best.
Final Thoughts On Attracting Red-Winged Blackbirds
Attracting red-winged blackbirds is not complicated. Use the best bird seed for more red winged blackbirds, which is sunflower seeds and cracked corn. Choose the right feeder, place it in a good spot, and keep it clean. Be patient and consistent. Soon, you will see these bold, beautiful birds at your feeder.
Remember to adjust your seed mix by season. Offer water and cover. Avoid cheap filler seeds. With these steps, you will enjoy watching red-winged blackbirds all year round.
Now go ahead and fill your feeder. The birds are waiting.