Ground tray: which birds use it
A low mesh tray a few inches off the ground keeps seed out of wet soil.
Is a ground tray right for your yard?
| Holds | Millet, cracked corn |
|---|---|
| Best for | Juncos, Mourning Doves, Native Sparrows, Towhees, Quail |
| Not for | Yards with outdoor cats |
| Squirrels | None |
| Cleaning | Easy |
| Budget range tracked | under $25 to under $50 |
Ground trays from budget to premium
Budget ranges are a guide; the button shows the current price on Amazon.
What other feeders pair well with it?
- Platform or tray feeder: Draws the widest range of species, including ground feeders. Needs a mesh floor for drainage and daily cleanup.
Other feeder types
Tube feeder · Hopper feeder · Platform or tray feeder · Weight-activated squirrel-proof feeder · Caged tube feeder · Nyjer (finch) tube · Nyjer sock · Suet cage · Tail-prop suet feeder · Peanut mesh feeder · Peanut wreath · Window feeder · Hummingbird feeder · Oriole feeder · Mealworm feeder · Smart camera feeder
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After the checklist, a few short emails, then a couple a month at most. Unsubscribe anytime.Frequently asked questions
What birds use a ground tray?
juncos, mourning doves, sparrows, towhees and quail use it most. A low mesh tray a few inches off the ground keeps seed out of wet soil. It is not a good fit for yards with outdoor cats.
What do you put in a ground tray?
Millet, cracked corn. The foods that suit it best are white proso millet, cracked corn and milo (sorghum). Use one food per feeder so birds are not tossing unwanted seed on the ground to reach what they want.
Is a ground tray squirrel-proof?
None. The only complete protection for any feeder is a smooth pole with a baffle whose bottom edge sits 4 to 5 feet up, placed at least 10 feet from trees, fences, decks and roofs.
How do you clean a ground tray?
Easy. Every two weeks, or weekly in wet weather, empty it, scrub with hot soapy water, soak in a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water for ten minutes, rinse well and let it dry completely before refilling.
How much does a good ground tray cost?
Listings we track run from under $25 to under $50. The cheapest models work, but mid-priced ones usually add metal ports, sturdier hangers and easier cleaning, which is what decides whether a feeder lasts one season or ten.
