Finding the ideal bird seed for your yard can be daunting with so many choices available. Selecting the ideal type of food will attract both native and non-native birds alike, so do your research to get the most out of your yard’s wildlife attractants.
A suitable mix will attract a wide range of songbirds to your feeders. However, one that contains poor-quality seeds and fillers will attract fewer birds than one that emphasizes higher-grade seeds.
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Sunflower Seed
Sunflower seed is one of the best birdseed options for wild birds, as it contains protein, vitamin E, folate, zinc and essential fatty acids. These essential nutrients support healthy growth, protect against disease and preserve skin & eyesight.
Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants. These compounds shield cells from oxygen-free radical damage and help reduce inflammation within the body.
Black oil sunflower seed, whether whole kernels or hulled, is the ideal option for feeding a wide range of bird species. It’s high-protein and fat-rich food enjoyed by finches, titmice, chickadees, buntings, sparrows, grosbeaks, cardinals, doves and other common backyard bird species alike.
Safflower Seed
If you’re searching for the ideal birdseed for wild birds, safflower seed is an ideal option. This moderately priced bird food contains high levels of protein and fat which can help your feathered friends remain healthy throughout the winter months.
Safflower seeds are smaller than sunflower seeds and feature a hard white shell to protect the meat inside. These seeds have become favorites of northern cardinals, grosbeaks and house finches for their nutritious content.
They attract a range of small finches, including American goldfinches, Lesser goldfinches, indigo buntings and pine siskins. You can feed safflower seeds through hopper feeders or platform feeders to attract these birds.
Nyjer Seed
Nyjer seed is an ideal birdseed for wild birds, as it attracts various finches. Additionally, this high oil content makes it an excellent source of energy for active birds.
This seed is a favorite snack of winter finches such as goldfinches, house finches and purple finches.
Nyjer seed contains essential oil for birds’ nutritional needs, especially during breeding and molting seasons. It’s especially beneficial to small birds with smaller beaks who require less energy to stay alive.
Maintaining the freshness of nyjer seed is essential. Left sitting in a tube or sock feeder, it can spoil quickly; and once dry, finches will less likely consume it.
Cracked Corn
Cracked corn is an ideal supplemental food to offer backyard birds. It’s packed with protein and fiber, providing chickens with essential nutrients that keep them healthy and contented.
Additionally, cracked corn is high in carbohydrates and protein – providing your chickens with a convenient energy source. One single kernel of corn contains 15% water, 4% oil, 62% starch, 19% protein and fiber.
Wild birds especially appreciate cracked corn. Attracting species such as sparrows, juncos, towhees, jays, doves, quail, grackles, blackbirds and wild turkeys alike, it provides food for these feathered friends.
For optimal bird seed blends, look for one with a high proportion of sunflower seeds, millet or cracked corn along with peanuts. Avoid mixes that contain excessive amounts of milo, wheat or other grains which may not be as appealing to wild birds as other kinds.
Milo
Milo seed (sorghum bicolor) is a grass grain commonly used in inexpensive bird seed mixes. It comes in various colors such as white and red.
Milo seed may not contain much nutritional value, but it can be beneficial for birds who do not have access to higher-quality seeds. Furthermore, milo seeds provide many wild birds with a great source of carbohydrates.
However, most wild birds do not enjoy the flavor of milo seed. Instead, they prefer eating seeds that are more nutritious and appealing for them such as black oil sunflower seeds, nyjer thistle, safflower and white proso millet.
