Peanuts are not just a delicious snack for humans; they’re also a delightful treat for many birds.
By adding peanuts to your bird feeder, you can invite a colorful assortment of feathered friends to your backyard.
From strikingly colorful jays to adorable tiny nuthatches, discover 9 birds that you can tempt into your garden with peanuts.
1. Blue Jay
Blue Jays are the flashy show-offs of the bird world, known for their vibrant blue feathers and bold personalities. They have a penchant for peanuts, often seen swooping down to grab one whole.
These clever birds are not just about looks; they are quite intelligent and can mimic the calls of other birds. Place some peanuts in a tray or platform feeder, and watch them arrive with gusto.
Their noisy chatter and striking appearance make them hard to miss. If you’re lucky, you might even witness them caching peanuts for later snacks.
2. American Crow
American Crows are known for their intelligence and adaptability, thriving in both rural and urban areas. They love peanuts and are quite the strategists when it comes to fetching them.
These birds have a complex social structure and communicate in ways that are fascinating to observe. By offering peanuts, you might not only see crows visit your yard but also witness their problem-solving skills.
Place whole peanuts in the shell and watch these clever creatures work out how to access the tasty treats inside.
3. Red-Bellied Woodpecker
Despite their name, the Red-bellied Woodpecker has a more prominent red cap than a belly, but they are no less striking. These birds are attracted to the sound of peanuts being cracked open.
Their zygodactyl feet, with two toes pointing forward and two pointing backward, allow them to cling easily to feeders.
By putting out peanuts, you’re offering a treat that they will joyfully hammer away at. These woodpeckers are a treat to watch as they drum rhythmically on trees and feeders alike.
4. Tufted Titmouse
The Tufted Titmouse is a small songbird with a personality much larger than its size. Their soft gray plumage and distinctive tuft make them easily recognizable.
Titmice love peanuts and are often seen carrying them away to peck at in peace. They are curious and will inspect feeders diligently for these tasty morsels.
Providing peanuts ensures these lively birds add their cheerful songs to your garden, flitting about with boundless energy and charm.
5. Carolina Chickadee
Carolina Chickadees, with their black cap and bibs, are adorable little visitors that bring joy wherever they go. They have a love for peanuts, which keeps them returning to well-stocked feeders.
These agile birds flit from branch to feeder, never staying long but always leaving a smile.
Their distinctive call, which sounds like their name, adds a musical element to any backyard. By offering peanuts, you’re ensuring that these lively little birds grace your garden with their delightful presence.
6. White-Breasted Nuthatch
Known for their distinctive habit of creeping down tree trunks headfirst, White-breasted Nuthatches are fascinating to watch. Peanuts are a favorite treat for these small, agile birds.
They often take peanuts to hide away for future snacking, showcasing their strategic thinking.
With their nasal call and acrobatic movements, they are a delight to have around. Adding peanuts to your feeder will likely entice these unique birds, offering both entertainment and charm.
7. Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is a striking visitor, with its brilliant red feathers making it stand out in any garden. Cardinals enjoy peanuts, often cracking them open with their strong beaks.
They bring a splash of color and a sense of cheer to your backyard. Their sweet, whistling songs are a welcome addition to any day.
By offering peanuts, you’re inviting these stunning birds to grace your garden, ensuring it remains lively and vibrant even in the heart of winter.
8. Downy Woodpecker
Downy Woodpeckers are charming little visitors known for their black and white plumage and playful demeanor. Peanuts are a favorite snack, which they peck at with great enthusiasm.
These woodpeckers are easy to attract with peanut feeders, offering delightful acrobatics as they hang from branches.
They have a gentle drumming sound that is pleasing to hear, making them a favorite among bird enthusiasts.
By adding peanuts to your feeder, you invite these delightful birds to become part of your garden’s community.
9. European Starling
European Starlings, with their iridescent feathers, are a spectacle to behold. They travel in flocks and are known for their charismatic presence.
Starlings enjoy peanuts and will readily visit feeders when peanuts are offered. Their diverse vocalizations can mimic other birds, adding a unique element to the garden.
By stocking up on peanuts, you can attract these sociable birds, ensuring your backyard is filled with movement, color, and sound.