To attract scrub jays to your yard, there are several things you can do. Scrub jays are known to be attracted to nuts, fruits, insects, and small animals, so providing these food sources will greatly increase your chances of attracting them.
1. Offer nuts: Scrub jays have a particular fondness for nuts, especially acorns. You can scatter a few acorns or other nuts in your yard to entice them. Providing a bird feeder with a mix of nuts and seeds can also be effective.
2. Provide fruits: Scrub jays are known to enjoy fruits like berries and grapes. Planting fruit-bearing trees or shrubs in your yard can help attract them. Additionally, leaving out some sliced fruits, such as apples or oranges, can be a tasty treat for them.
3. Attract insects: Scrub jays have a diverse diet that includes insects. Creating a welcoming environment for insects can indirectly attract scrub jays. Avoid using pesticides in your yard, as they can reduce the insect population. Planting native flowers and plants can attract a variety of insects, providing a natural food source for scrub jays.
4. Create a water source: Like many birds, scrub jays need access to fresh water. Consider installing a birdbath or small pond in your yard. Ensure the water source is clean and replenished regularly. Providing a shallow area for them to bathe can be particularly appealing to scrub jays.
5. Offer peanut butter and suet: Scrub jays are known to enjoy peanut butter, particularly when mixed with seeds or nuts. You can place some peanut butter on a platform feeder or smear it on the bark of a tree. Suet, which is a high-energy food made from animal fat, can also be a great option to attract scrub jays.
6. Use sunflower seeds and cracked corn: Scrub jays are known to be attracted to sunflower seeds and cracked corn. These can be offered in a tray feeder or scattered on the ground. However, be cautious with the amount of cracked corn you provide, as it can attract unwanted pests like rodents.
7. Create a welcoming habitat: Scrub jays prefer open areas with a mix of trees and shrubs. Ensure your yard has a variety of vegetation, including both tall trees and low shrubs. This provides shelter and nesting opportunities for scrub jays. Avoid excessive pruning or removing dead trees, as these can offer valuable foraging and nesting sites.
Remember that attracting scrub jays to your yard may take time and patience. It’s important to consistently provide food, water, and suitable habitat to increase your chances of success. Enjoy observing these beautiful birds as they visit your yard and make it their home.