Red-winged Blackbird

Red-winged Blackbirds are easily recognized by the bright red and yellow shoulder patches on males. They are common around wetlands and fields but will also visit backyard feeders. These birds enjoy seeds and grains and often feed on the ground or at platform feeders.

Recommended Chirp & Maple foods

Best Foods for Red-winged Blackbird

The right food depends on how this bird naturally feeds. Start with the core recommendations below, then build out your backyard setup with supporting and seasonal options.

How to Attract This Bird

Favourite foods

Red-winged Blackbirds are wetland icons that visit feeders near water features or marshy areas. They eat cracked corn, black oil sunflower, millet, and mixed seeds. Males with their bold red shoulder patches are unmistakable. They travel in mixed flocks with grackles and other blackbirds, especially during fall and winter.

Best Feeder Types

Platform feeders and ground trays near water or in open areas are most effective for Red-winged Blackbirds. They prefer feeding in open habitats with nearby cattails or tall grasses for cover. If your property is near wetlands or a pond, a low platform feeder stocked with corn and sunflower will attract them reliably. They handle hopper feeders well too.

Backyard Habitat Tips

Red-winged Blackbirds are wetland birds that nest in cattails, bulrushes, and tall marsh grasses. If your property includes or borders a pond, marsh, or wet meadow, you already have prime habitat. Leaving cattails and tall grasses standing around water features supports nesting. They'll commute to feeders from wetland nesting areas, so even a feeder a short distance from a pond or creek will attract them. A water feature of any size — even a small garden pond — increases your chances of hosting them.

A bold visitor often seen in open areas and wetlands.

Seen this bird at your feeder?

If you’ve spotted one, log your sighting and add it to your Backyard Bird List.

See what other birders are spotting — and start tracking what visits your feeder.

Log This Sighting

Backyard Feeding Questions

A few simple answers to help you create a more active, bird-friendly backyard.

Do I need to feed birds every day?

No — but consistency helps. Birds quickly learn where reliable food sources are, so keeping feeders stocked regularly can lead to more frequent visits over time.

How long will it take birds to notice my feeder?

It depends on your location, season, and feeder setup. Some birds may find a new feeder quickly, while others take longer. Fresh food, a safe location, and consistency all help.

Are birds attracted to specific foods?

Yes. Different birds prefer different foods, feeder types, and feeding styles. Choosing the right blend or seed can make a big difference in which birds visit your backyard.

Build a Backyard They Return To

Start with the right food, keep feeding consistent, and create a space birds feel safe returning to again and again.

Small changes in food, feeder choice, and consistency can make a big difference.

Find My Blend

Best Foods for Red-winged Blackbird

Primary Blend

Supporting Seeds

Seasonal Food

More birds you may also see

Backyard Feeding Questions