For years, I’ve been photographing and observing Eastern Bluebirds in my yard, but this year brought something entirely new. I first introduced this male in my post, Aggressive Male Eastern Bluebird Joins Nesting Effort in My Yard. Recently, I watched him swoop down and snatch a piece of peanut straight from my backyard feeder, a surprising behavior I had never witnessed before.
Eastern Bluebird Eating Peanuts at My Backyard Feeder
Eastern Bluebirds typically feed on insects, worms, and soft fruits. Unlike cardinals or chickadees, they usually avoid seeds and nuts. During nesting season, male bluebirds focus on gathering protein-rich insects to support their mates and future young.
Seeing one go for a peanut was a rare and unexpected sight.
Nesting Season Behavior of Eastern Bluebirds Eating Peanuts
At the moment, the female is incubating eggs in my nest box. The male has been busy flying back and forth, collecting insects. In addition to his regular foraging, he’s been making frequent stops at the peanut feeder. I’ve observed him picking up peanut pieces several times a day, sometimes just minutes apart.
Benefits of Peanuts for Eastern Bluebirds During Nesting Season
Peanuts are rich in fat and protein, offering a valuable energy source during the demanding nesting period. The male is working hard to feed the incubating female and will soon help care for the hatchlings. These high-calorie snacks might be giving him the extra fuel he needs to keep up with his responsibilities.
Wildlife Photography Tip: Capture Feeding Behavior Naturally
When photographing birds at feeders, I always keep my distance to avoid disrupting their behavior. Using a long lens like the RF 100-500mm helps me get a close frame without intruding. I recommend setting up early and remaining still so birds grow comfortable with your presence. Patience and preparation are key to capturing rare moments, like an Eastern Bluebird eating peanuts.
Camera Settings and Gear Used
I took this photo on an overcast morning, which required increasing the ISO to maintain a fast enough shutter speed to freeze motion.
- Camera: Canon EOS R5 Mark II
- Lens: RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
- Aperture: ƒ/8
- Focal Length: 500mm
- Shutter Speed: 1/500 second
- ISO: 4000
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Exposure Compensation: +2/3