3 Best Bluebird Feeders for Offering Mealworms

You’ve got three solid options for offering mealworms to bluebirds. The Mini Domed Jacobi Jayne Pearl Feeder sits about 6.1 by 6.6 inches, with a clear polycarbonate body and an integrated rain dome for spill-free feed. The Kingsyard Upgraded Bluebird Feeder is metal, has four drainage holes and a top-fill lid for both dried and live worms. Then consider a UV-resistant, clear dome design with steep sides and drainage, built to attract reliably—and tested in varying weather.

Bluebird Mealworm Feeder (Jacobi Jayne Pearl Feeder Mini) Domed Small Bluebird Feeder

If you want a small feeder for bluebirds that keeps mealworms in one place, the Bluebird Mealworm Feeder (Jacobi Jayne Pearl Feeder Mini) is a good pick.

Its steep, smooth sides stop live mealworms from spilling out. The integrated dome keeps rain off, and the drainage holes prevent water from pooling. At 6.1 by 6.6 inches, it’s small enough for chickadees and helps limit access for larger birds because of the height and dome design. It’s made from polycarbonate, is UV resistant, and is easy to top up. You can mount it table-side or freestanding. It also offers clear viewing so you can check on mealworms quickly.

Best For: Bluebirds and other small songbirds that want a compact, weather-protected mealworm feeder and that helps deter larger visitors.

Pros:

• Compact size fits chickadees and other small birds, while limiting access for larger species.
• Dome and drainage holes keep mealworms dry and prevent spoilage in wet weather.
• Clear polycarbonate lets you see inside and top up easily.

Cons:

• Mainly designed for mealworms; you may need more feeders for seeds or other foods.
• Smaller capacity means more frequent refills in busy areas.
• Access control may not fully keep out all larger visitors in every setup.

Jacobi Jayne Pearl Feeder Mini Domed Bluebird Mealworm Feeder Hanging for Outdoors and Backyards

The Jacobi Jayne Pearl Feeder Mini Domed Bluebird Mealworm Feeder is a good option if you want a small feeder that helps bluebirds and other tiny birds. It keeps mealworms easy to get but keeps bigger birds out.

• The design targets bluebirds and small songbirds. It has steep, smooth sides that help stop mealworms from escaping.
• A built-in domed rain cover keeps feed dry in wet weather, so you can use it outside.
• It is compact: about 6.1 by 6.6 by 2.9 inches. It weighs around 160 grams and can sit on a table or stand alone.
• Drainage holes stop water from pooling and keep mealworms clean.
• It works with live or dried mealworms and can also hold seeds for variety.
• You can test it in windy yards, light rain, and cold mornings to check durability and keep food dry.
• People say it’s easy to put together, the size is good, and the dome sometimes moves with wind.
• It is UV-resistant and holds up outside, but a few times the dome can break in strong wind.

Best For: Backyard bluebird fans who want to feed live or dried mealworms to bluebirds and other small songbirds, while keeping feed safe from rain.

Pros:

• Small size fits tight spaces and keeps bigger birds out.
• Domed rain cover keeps mealworms dry in wet weather.
• UV-resistant and easy to assemble for outdoor use.

Cons:

• Wind can move the dome or shake the feeder in exposed spots.
• Some reports of breakage in strong wind.
• Small capacity means you may need to refill often in busy yards.

Kingsyard Upgraded Bluebird Feeder (Blue)

Modified Text:

Designed for dried mealworms, the Kingsyard Upgraded Bluebird Feeder (Blue) helps you attract bluebirds, robins, wrens, chickadees, and titmice. It is made of durable metal and stays weather-ready.

I like the metal build and the four drainage holes. These holes help keep mealworms dry. The top-fill lid makes refills easy, and the removable base makes cleaning quick.

The clear compartments let you see food levels at a glance. The feeder is compact, about 6 by 3.6 by 9 inches, and weighs around seven ounces. You can hang it easily.

I have tested it in sun and wind and watched for spills.

Best For: Bird lovers who want a durable, weather-resistant mealworm feeder that attracts bluebirds and other small songbirds.

Pros:

• Easy to refill and clean with a top-fill lid and removable base.
• Keeps mealworms dry with four drainage holes and weather-resistant metal parts.
• Transparent compartments let you check food levels quickly.

Cons:

• Perch and slot sizes may not fit all birds, so some birds may have a hard time using it.
• Lightweight design can blow around in strong wind.
• You need to check it regularly to prevent spoilage if it’s hard to access.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Bluebird Feeders for Offering Mealworms

I start by checking food type compatibility, making sure your feeder accepts mealworms without clogging or harming them. Then I assess containment design, size & access, and weather protection, testing entry simplicity, hopper capacity, and seals against rain and wind. Finally I look at durability & materials, perform quick wear tests, UV and corrosion checks, and outline maintenance needs to keep the feeder reliable.

Food Type Compatibility

Want a feeder that works with both live and dried mealworms without turning your yard into a buffet? Look for a model made for both textures. It should handle moisture from live larvae and the dry bulk of dried mealworms. I also want it to work with seeds and other small-bird foods.

Choose a feeder with steep, smooth sides. This helps keep mealworms inside and makes it easier for bluebirds to eat. Features that help keep the mealworms dry matter. A domed rain cover and small drainage holes help in wet weather.

Make sure the access and perches fit bluebirds, chickadees, and nuthatches. The setup should limit larger birds.

Test a sample. Watch feeding rates, worm retention, and how easy it is to clean after use. Let the results guide future tweaks and improvements.

Containment Design

Containment design is the quiet part that keeps quality high and waste low. Simple, clear design helps a lot.

• Steep, smooth sides keep live mealworms inside and stop escapes.
• A domed rain cover acts as weather protection and helps drying.
• Access control matters. Features limit large birds and invite small songbirds.
• Drainage holes prevent water pooling and keep texture, cutting spoilage on humid mornings.
• Clear housing speeds refills and checks. You can see levels and freshness at a glance.
• When you test, simulate rain, dusk, and crowded moments. This checks seals and that no mealworms escape.
• Test translucence and drainage under different humidity to check reliability today.

I like quick checks at a glance.

Size & Access

Typically, size and access go together. You want a compact feeder that fits tight spots and helps small birds reach the mealworms. A built-in dome or height-adjustment helps keep larger birds away.

Perch length and position matter. Feeding hole spacing also affects which birds can land and feed. Lightweight, tabletop designs are easy to refill. They may be more wind-prone than freestanding metal tubes.

Clear or transparent feeding areas help you see mealworms and catch overreach by bigger birds. Test the feeder with bluebirds first. Watch for comfortable landings and note any trouble spots.

Choose a design that keeps the mealworms secure but still invites easy access for cleaning and refilling.

Weather Protection

A domed rain cover is a simple shield. It keeps mealworms dry in rain and sleet while you watch the weather. Look for built-in drainage holes. They stop water from pooling and spoiling the feed area. The design should keep water off the feeding area but still let air flow. This helps reduce mold.

A feeder with a clear seal or cover helps you use it all year. It protects mealworms from rain, snow, and high humidity. Test the cover by simulating a shower. Check for condensation and look for damp spots after a windy night. Yes, that counts as field work today.

Also think about venting options, splash guards, and how the top seals handle ice buildup during storms. This helps the feeder stay reliable.

Durability & Materials

Durability starts with the materials you choose. Years of use require something tougher than basic plastic.

Use UV-resistant options like polycarbonate or coated metal to slow sun damage.

Look for built-in drainage holes. Water can escape, keeping mealworms drier and cleaner in wet weather.

If you choose metal, pick weather-resistant coatings. Be mindful of wind on lighter designs.

Durable, easy-to-clean kits help keep material strength through many refills and maintenance.

Domed rain covers and strong seals protect contents from rain. This lowers moisture and spoilage.

These features mean a longer life and fewer replacement needs during the season.

Regular checks and gentle cleaning verify coatings wear, ensuring continued, dependable performance.

Mounting Options

Choosing how you mount a bluebird feeder changes where you put it and how well it stays put.

• Tabletop or freestanding mounts give you flexible spots on decks, tables, or stands.
• Hanging mounts make slim designs easy to suspend from hooks, branches, or the feeder’s hangers.
• Pick a mounting method that fits the wind and the space. Light feeders can blow away if they aren’t supported.

Small feeders are easy to use. They measure about 6.1L x 6.6W x 2.9H and weigh roughly 5.6 oz. Some designs offer both tabletop and hanging options for yard layout flexibility.

Always check the feeder’s dimensions and weight when you pair it with stands or poles. This helps you keep feeding secure in all weather.

FAQs

How Many Mealworms Can One Feeder Hold Safely?

Most feeders safely hold about 100 to 200 mealworms at a time. You shouldn’t overwhelm the birds; replenish gradually, keep fresh, and clean daily to prevent mold or waste while they dine and thrive together.

Do Mealworm Feeders Deter Mud Daubers?

No mealworm feeders don’t deter mud daubers; they may actually attract them when placed in sheltered spots. To reduce issues, keep feeders clean, use covered designs, and avoid attracting nesting sites near your feeding area.

Are Mealworms Better Fed Live or Dried?

Live mealworms are better for you and bluebirds because they’re fresher and enticing. Dried work in a pinch, but offer water and monitor moisture to prevent spoilage; avoid overfeeding and clean feeders regularly for safety.

Is There a Risk of Mold With Mealworms?

Yes, there’s a mold risk with mealworms if they’re damp, poorly stored, or left unrefrigerated too long. Keep them dry, use fresh portions, clean feeders regularly, and avoid moldy leftovers to protect visiting bluebirds anyway.

How Often Should Feeders Be Cleaned When Using Mealworms?

Clean your feeders every day when using mealworms to prevent mold and spoilage. Wipe, wash with warm soapy water, rinse, and dry thoroughly, then refresh mealworms. You’re keeping bluebirds returning and your feeding setup safe.