This is especially true inwinter when natural food sources are less available.
So what seed types do birds like best?
Do different bird species have particular preferences?
Credit:Rob Cardillo
Are seed mixes a good option for feeding a wider variety of birds?
We asked these questions of several bird experts and here’s what they recommend for filling your feeders.
However, not all sunflower seed is equally attractive.
Credit:Amy Haskell
You end up paying for those heavy shells, which the birds discard as they crack them open.
Black oil sunflower seed is a great option to feed birds because so many species enjoy it.
She notes that different species may enjoy other types of seed as well.
Credit: Blaine Moats
Folks ask me about the small birds.
Another consideration is that without their hull to protect them, the kernels are more susceptible to absorbing moisture.
The kernels can become sticky during rainy or humid periods and plug up feeder ports.
You might find that hulled sunflower seed is best used in smaller feeders you fill frequently.
Millet is a favorite of ground-feeding birds like doves, sparrows, and juncos, he says.
Peanutsshelled or unshelledare a favorite treat of bluejays, woodpeckers, chickadees, and several other species.
So, its a good idea to cover the feeder you use for peanuts to keep out rainwater.
When it comes to feeding birds, Im a huge proponent of offering single ingredients.
Perhaps fill one feeder with sunflower and one with millet or hulled peanuts, says OConnor.
A few species, including some sparrows and buntings, would probably rather eat white millet.
Thats fine, says OConnor.
Millet can be provided in another feeder or scattered on the ground.
Dont mix the two types of seed.
The birds will pull out the seed they want to eat and knock the other onto the ground.
The seed on the bottom will eventually become wet, moldy, and disgusting.
It will ruin the new seed.
Always shake out the old seed before adding new, says OConnor.
