Blue Jays are large and beautiful birds. I love attracting backyard birds, and I’m happy that I have been able to lure these beauties to my feeders. I have four that visit my feeders regularly. So, today I’m going to share with you how to attract Blue Jays to your backyard.
Next, Blue Jays start their courtship in February. The breeding season is from March to July. Spring is around the corner, so I wanted to give you a few tips on how you can get them to a feeder in your backyard for a photo op.
A few facts about Blue Jays, they are large birds and stay with their partner for life. So they understand the meaning of until death do us part. They are loud and love to make their presence know with their “jaaaay” call early morning. Wooded areas are preferred. I have trees along my back property and the adjoining property has a roll of evergreens, so I have the perfect environment. The average life span for a Blue Jay is 7 years.
The secret to luring Blue Jays to a feeder in your backyard is peanuts:
- Purchase a platform feeder as shown. I ordered mine from Amazon and love it.
- They also love shelled peanuts, but make sure they’re unsalted. You can buy them in bulk at Costco or SAMs.
- Add acorns, sunflower seeds and fruit to the feeder. (I use old grapes).
- Spread cracked corn and sunflower seeds on the ground under the feeder.
- Plant an oak tree and you will have them for life. (They love acorns).
I don’t know if this is the male or female, but the other is around somewhere. The peanuts keep them around all year. So, I’m hoping to see little Blue Jays this summer since breeding season has started.
Last, bird watching is a great activity to do with children. Turn bird watching into an educational lesson. Additionally, bird watching gives them an opportunity to become involved with nature and learn the habits of various backyard birds. You may also like: Backyard Birds: Red Bellied Woodpeckers
