How heavy is your average Jay?

[FUDGEY]

A bit of a strange one this I admit and I know the weight will vary from bird to bird and at different times of the year, but after googling I cant find anything. Im hoping there will be some ringers out there who might be able to help me. The reason I want to know is that I am planning on making a feeding device which will only allow animals or birds of a certain weight to get to the food. To put you in the picture I am not trying to prevent other birds from getting food. At the moment I feed all of them, but I want to prevent the commoner birds eating the more expensive nuts. I am not to sure what kind of device I intend to make and if there are any clever designers out there I would welcome there ideas. Basically Im thinking of a plate that when the bird stands on it something lifts and exposes the food. Obviously it has to be bird friendly. A strange request I know, but I hope some one can help. Its not often on here no one has any ideas/suggestions. Thanks.

PS This is a Red Squirrel feeder I use at my hide that prevents the birds getting the nuts. Obviously no good for Jays, but it works a treat for the Reds.

[The Woodman]

BTO Birdfacts gives 170g for Jay, both male and female.

[FUDGEY]

Ty Woodman, that was quick Much appreciated mate, I honestly did try and find out for myself (red face) Now for some suggestions on a feeder My brain will be burnt out by the end of the day thinking of a design. Surely there will be a simple enough device that will do the job.

[FUDGEY]

I have been thinking all morning on how I can make this weight operated feeder and I am driving myself mad, any suggestions before I crack up?

[~T~]

Something like this?

YouTube - ‪Squirrel Buster Plus‬‏

[eeyore]

Originally Posted by FUDGEY

I have been thinking all morning on how I can make this weight operated feeder and I am driving myself mad, any suggestions before I crack up?

i'd have though basically a spring loaded sleeve over the feeder linked to a platform so that when a bird of sufficient weight lands on it the sleeve slides down and dispenses a nut

dont make the return spring too savage or birds might get bills or limbs caught

the only problem is that it wont stop magpies and crows from taking the nuts - but will debar the smaller and rarer birds like nuthatch

[Jackaroo]

Originally Posted by FUDGEY

PS This is a Red Squirrel feeder I use at my hide that prevents the birds getting the nuts. Obviously no good for Jays, but it works a treat for the Reds.

Quite unusual and refreshing to come across a contraption designed to facilitate access for squirrels! Usually the opposite's the case.
I think you've got your work cut out for you Fudgey but best of luck.

Cheers, Jack.

[FUDGEY]

Ty guys, I now have a good idea what I am going to do, once its built Ill post a pic, many thanks

Not my idea Jackaroo, but it works a treat.

[King Edward]

Which birds/mammals are you trying to attract, and which are the main ones you're hoping to thwart?

[FUDGEY]

Im only really hoping that Jays use it as it will be filled with whole peanuts, Im wanting to stop Nuthatches, Tits, Pheasants and Finches mainly from taking whole nuts as it costs me too much. I expect the Red Squirrels will also use it, but that is not a problem. I dont get Crows or Magpies at my hide so I cant see any other bird/mammal getting to the nuts. I have plenty mesh nut feeders there so the Nuthatches/Woodpeckers and Tits will be fine and i also put out wild bird food for the finches so none of the birds will be losing out.