To attract jays, there are several effective methods you can use. One popular option is to offer nuts, such as peanuts. Jays are known to be particularly fond of nuts and will happily devour them. You can either provide whole peanuts or already shelled ones, depending on your preference.
Another great food choice to attract jays is suet. Suet is a high-energy bird food made from animal fat and is often mixed with other ingredients such as seeds, nuts, and fruits. Jays are attracted to the rich and fatty content of suet, making it a great option to lure them to your backyard.
Mealworms are another favorite food of jays. These small, worm-like larvae are high in protein and are readily consumed by many bird species, including jays. You can offer live or dried mealworms in a shallow dish or a specialized mealworm feeder.
Cracked corn is another food item that jays enjoy. It can be scattered on the ground or placed in a platform feeder to attract these birds. Additionally, sunflower seeds are a popular choice among jays. They can be offered in bird feeders or scattered on the ground.
In addition to providing specific foods, creating a bird-friendly environment with natural food sources can also attract jays. Small fruits and berries are a favorite of these birds. Planting elderberries, cherries, wild grapes, blackberries, and other similar fruits in your yard can serve as a natural attractant for jays. Not only will these plants provide food, but they will also add beauty to your landscape.
It’s important to note that jays are intelligent and cautious birds, so it may take some time for them to become comfortable with new food sources. Be patient and consistent with your offerings, and eventually, you will start to see these colorful birds visiting your yard.
Personal experience: In my backyard, I have successfully attracted jays by offering a combination of peanuts, suet, and sunflower seeds. I have a platform feeder filled with peanuts and sunflower seeds, which the jays frequently visit. I also have a suet feeder that I regularly stock with suet cakes. The jays enjoy balancing on the feeder and pecking at the suet. Additionally, I have planted several blackberry bushes along the perimeter of my yard, which not only provide food for the jays but also attract other bird species. It’s always a delight to see jays hopping around and enjoying the offerings in my backyard.