There is something about Jays in Autumn that hooks you
Every year when the leaves start turning gold and the air smells just a little sharper, I wait for the jays. They are like the loud, slightly bossy neighbors of the bird world. You know the type—noisy, confident, and impossible to ignore. Jays are the squirrels of the sky, always busy stuffing their cheeks and darting around like they own the place. And what they are really after? Nuts. Loads of nuts.
I have spent several nut gathering seasons trying to figure out the best way to feed them during this busy, chaotic time. It is not just throwing a handful of peanuts into a feeder and hoping they show up. No, it is a bit of a dance with nature, a challenge that feels oddly personal once you pay attention. This little journey of mine turned into a pretty fun obsession, and it taught me more about Jays than I expected.
Why Feed Jays During Nut Gathering Season?
You might wonder why to bother feeding jays at all. After all, they seem pretty self-sufficient, right? Jays are clever birds—they stash nuts inside tree crevices, bury them under leaves, and sometimes forget where they hid their treasure, unintentionally planting trees along the way. They are like nature’s little gardeners.
But the thing about nature is it is unpredictable. Some years, nuts can be scarce because of weather or other factors. When this happens, Jays have to work harder just to survive. And that is where backyard feeding can make a difference. It helps them get through stressful times and keeps them coming back, brightening up the yard with their brilliant blue feathers and loud squawks.
Feeding jays also means getting to know them. They are not shy about showing character. They can be downright demanding, throwing a tantrum if the snacks do not meet their standards. That makes feeding time a little adventure.
What Works Best? The Food
When it comes to feeding jays, not all nuts are created equal. I tried a lot—peanuts, walnuts, acorns, almonds, even cashews (which I think might have confused them a little). Here is what I learned from trial, error, and a bit of jay attitude.
Peanuts—Plain and Simple
Raw, unsalted peanuts are a classic. Jays love them and will happily crack open the shells. But beware, salted or flavored peanuts? Big no-no. Jays pick those out like wise food critics. Also, roasted peanuts lose some of their charm. They prefer the raw crunch.
Walnuts and Hickory Nuts
These are like gourmet meals for jays. The tough shells mean they get a nice challenge, flexing their strong beaks. Plus, walnuts pack a punch of nutrition. I have watched jays spend more time working on a walnut than any other nut, which means they savor it.
Acorns—The Natural Choice
Acorns are everywhere during nut season, so jays know them well and will sometimes pass by other nuts if acorns are around. If you can collect a bunch of fresh acorns, leave them on a flat surface where jays can nudge and pick through them. It is fun to watch.
Avoid Almonds and Cashews
Interestingly, these nuts were met with suspicion and often ignored. Maybe because they do not grow naturally in the jays’ usual haunts. Feeding them these might feel like serving sushi to a bear—looks fancy but not quite right.
How to Offer the Nuts
Simply dumping a pile on the ground is one way, but it is messy and invites other critters. Jays are smart. They like things tidy and safe. Here are a few ways I feed them:
- Platform Feeders: A wooden platform feeder, with low edges so nuts do not roll off, is perfect. I place it near trees so jays can swoop in and out swiftly.
- Nut Trays: A simple tray or bowl works, but pick something heavy enough so squirrels cannot flip it easily. Jays are clever, but squirrels are ruthless.
- Scattered in Leaves: Sometimes, I scatter nuts among fallen leaves on a bare patch. It mimics natural foraging and entertains me watching them hunt like little detectives.
Timing Matters More Than You Think
I used to feed jays whenever I had time or felt like it. Turns out, if you want to become their favorite, timing is key. Jays are most active early in the morning and late afternoon. That is when they forage and stash. If you put out fresh nuts in these windows, you might catch some serious jay action.
Feeding just once a day, especially early, helps them trust your spot. They come back regularly and sometimes even call their friends. Jays talk—a lot—and you might hear a few squawks like, “Hey! This is the spot!”
Where to Place the Food? Location, Location, Location
Jays feel safest when food is near trees or shrubs. They want quick access to cover in case a hawk zooms by. So, putting feeders out in the open where they feel exposed? Not a great idea. Jays are bold but not stupid.
I found placing feeders close to dense bushes or on low branches gives them a sense of security. Plus, it makes watching them easier without freaking them out.
Other Tips That I Picked Up Along the Way
- Keep It Dry: Jays hate soggy nuts. If you feed them outdoors, try to protect the food from rain or dew with a little roof or cover.
- Variety Is the Spice of Life: Mix in some seeds like sunflower or corn occasionally. Jays love variety and it keeps their diet balanced.
- Don’t Overfeed: Too much food encourages bad habits or dependency. Just enough to supplement what they find on their own is perfect.
- Be Patient: Jays are clever and can be shy at first. It might take a few days of offering food for them to trust you.
- Watch for Other Wildlife: Squirrels and even some small mammals will try to crash the party. Jays can be territorial, though, and often chase them off.
Why Feeding Jays Feels Like a Little Celebration
Once the feeding rhythm sets in, jays become more than just birds in the yard. They are characters with quirks and moods. I remember one jay, “Blue,” who always picked the biggest nuts and dropped them just out of reach. Maybe a game? Maybe testing me? Whatever it was, it made me laugh and appreciate their cleverness.
Feeding jays is not just about food. It is about watching nature’s hustle and getting a peek into their world. It is a reminder that even the boldest personalities need help sometimes. And if you get lucky, you might just become part of their nut gathering stories.
Ready to Start Feeding Your Jays This Season?
The nut gathering season is a special time. The air is crisp, the squirrels are frantic, and the jays are at their busiest. Offering the right nuts, in the right place, at the right time, can make your yard a favorite stop for these beautiful, boisterous birds.
Remember, it is not about perfect science, but about observation, patience, and a little bit of fun. And who knows? You might find, as I did, that feeding jays during nut gathering season becomes your most enjoyable seasonal ritual.
So grab those peanuts, gather some walnuts, clear a little spot near the bushes, and let the jay party begin. You will be glad you did.