The eastern bluebird, with its vibrant orange chest and serene blue back, is a beloved symbol of springtime across North America. Understanding what does eastern bluebird eat is essential for anyone hoping to attract these beautiful birds to their yard or support their populations in the wild. Their diet shifts with the seasons and the availability of food, moving seamlessly between insects and berries.
Primary Diet: Insects and Invertebrates
For the majority of the year, particularly during the breeding season, the eastern bluebird is primarily an insectivore. These birds are highly beneficial to gardens and agricultural fields because they actively hunt and consume a wide variety of pests. Their hunting strategy involves perching on a low branch or fence post, scanning the ground below, and then dropping to the turf to snatch up their prey.
Common Insect Prey
Their menu is diverse, focusing on the most abundant and nutritious insects available. The following list details the most common insects found in an eastern bluebird's diet:
Grasshoppers and Crickets: A high-protein staple, especially in late summer.
Beetles: Including weevils and other soft-bodied varieties.
Caterpillars: A crucial food source for feeding hungry nestlings.
Ants and Termites: Easily accessible prey found in lawns and fields.
Spiders and Snails: Provide variety and essential moisture.
Seasonal Shifts to Fruit and Berries
As temperatures drop and insects become scarce in the fall and winter, the eastern bluebird's diet undergoes a significant transformation. To survive the colder months, they rely heavily on the energy-rich sugars found in wild fruits and berries. This dietary shift allows them to remain in their northern range even when snow covers the ground.
Favorite Fruit Sources
You can support bluebirds through the winter by planting native berry-producing shrubs. They are particularly drawn to the following plants:
Virginia Creeper: A vigorous vine that produces dark blue berries.
Dogwood Trees: Offer red or orange berries that persist into winter.
Winterberry Holly: As the name suggests, these bright red berries are a winter favorite.
Pyracantha: The bright orange berries are highly visible and nutritious.
Elderberry: Provides both fruit and shelter.
Occasional and Unusual Food Items
While insects and fruit make up the bulk of their nutrition, eastern bluebirds are opportunistic feeders and will occasionally consume other items. Observers have documented instances of them eating tree sap, small tree frogs, and even the eggs or nestlings of smaller bird species if the opportunity arises and food is extremely scarce.
Attracting Eastern Bluebirds with the Right Food
If you wish to attract these stunning birds to your property, it is important to align your offerings with their natural dietary needs. Unlike many songbirds that eat seeds, eastern bluebirds are not frequent visitors to traditional bird feeders filled with sunflower seeds or millet. To successfully feed them, you must offer items that mimic their natural diet.
Best Food Options for Backyard Feeding
To entice bluebirds to your yard, focus on providing live or dried insects and fresh or frozen fruit. The most effective methods include:
Mealworms: Both live and dried are readily accepted, especially during nesting season.
Native Berry Shrubs: Planting a variety ensures a supply of natural food.
Suet Cakes: High-fat suet provides essential energy during cold weather.
Fruit Halves: Offering sliced apples or oranges on a platform feeder can be effective in summer.
