Blog Details

Seeds In Bird Food are essential for attracting a diverse range of feathered friends to your backyard. At larosafoods.com, we understand the importance of providing nutritious and appealing options for wild birds. Choosing the right seeds ensures that you’re offering a balanced diet while minimizing waste and attracting the birds you want to see. Learn about the best seed choices, how to avoid unwanted fillers, and tips for keeping your feeders clean to support a healthy bird population in your area. By understanding the preferences of different bird species, you can create a welcoming and sustainable feeding station.

1. What Are The Most Popular Seeds Used In Bird Food?

Sunflower seeds are the most popular seeds used in bird food, attracting a wide variety of birds to backyard feeders. Sunflower seeds come in two main types: black oil and striped. Black oil sunflower seeds have thin shells that are easy for most birds to crack open, offering high fat content essential for winter survival. Striped sunflower seeds have thicker shells, which can deter less desired species like House Sparrows. For convenience, shelled sunflower seeds (sunflower hearts and chips) are also available, but they spoil quickly and must be offered in small amounts to prevent bacterial contamination. According to research from the University of California, Berkeley, in July 2023, sunflower seeds are preferred by approximately 70% of backyard bird watchers due to their versatility and high nutritional value.

1.1. Black Oil Sunflower Seeds

Black oil sunflower seeds are a top choice for bird feeders, thanks to their high oil content and thin shells that are easy for birds to crack. These seeds are particularly attractive to a wide range of birds, including finches, chickadees, nuthatches, and cardinals.

• Benefits:
  • High fat content provides essential energy, especially during winter.
  • Thin shells make them accessible to birds of all sizes.
  • Attract a diverse array of bird species.
• How to Serve:
  • Use in tube feeders, hopper feeders, or simply scatter on the ground.
  • Ensure feeders are clean to prevent the spread of disease.
• Recommended by:
  • The Cornell Lab of Ornithology recommends black oil sunflower seeds as a staple in any bird feeding station due to their broad appeal.

1.2. Striped Sunflower Seeds

Striped sunflower seeds offer a slightly different option with their thicker shells. While these shells can be more challenging for smaller birds, they can also deter less desirable species like House Sparrows and blackbirds.

• Benefits:
  • Thicker shells can help control which birds visit your feeder.
  • Still provide a good source of fat and nutrients.
• How to Serve:
  • Best used in feeders that can accommodate larger seeds and birds.
  • Suitable for hopper feeders and platform feeders.
• Considerations:
  • Monitor to ensure desired birds are still able to access the seeds.

1.3. Shelled Sunflower Seeds (Sunflower Hearts and Chips)

Shelled sunflower seeds, available as hearts or chips, eliminate the need for birds to crack open the shells. This makes them an excellent option for attracting birds that may have difficulty with whole seeds.

• Benefits:
  • Easy for all birds to eat, including those with weaker beaks.
  • No messy shells left behind.
• Drawbacks:
  • Spoil quickly and can harbor bacteria.
  • More expensive than whole sunflower seeds.
• Serving Tips:
  • Offer only small amounts that birds can consume in a day or two.
  • Avoid using in tube feeders where moisture can accumulate.

2. What Are Safflower Seeds And Their Benefits In Bird Food?

Safflower seeds are a popular choice in bird food, particularly for attracting cardinals while deterring squirrels and House Sparrows. Safflower seeds have a thick shell that can be challenging for some birds to crack, making them less appealing to unwanted species. Cardinals, grosbeaks, chickadees, doves, and native sparrows enjoy safflower seeds, making them a valuable addition to your bird feeder. According to a study by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in August 2024, approximately 60% of bird enthusiasts in the United States use safflower seeds to specifically attract cardinals.

2.1. Attracting Cardinals

Cardinals are particularly fond of safflower seeds, making this a great option if you want to see more of these vibrant birds in your yard.

• Why Cardinals Love Safflower:
  • The seed’s shape and size are ideal for their beaks.
  • Safflower provides essential nutrients for cardinals.
• Best Feeders for Safflower:
  • Tray feeders and hopper feeders are best suited for safflower, as they allow cardinals easy access.

2.2. Deterring Unwanted Guests

One of the biggest advantages of safflower seeds is their ability to deter certain unwanted visitors, such as squirrels and House Sparrows.

• Squirrel Resistance:
  • Squirrels typically avoid safflower due to its bitter taste and hard shell.
• House Sparrow Repellent:
  • House Sparrows generally do not prefer safflower, which helps in maintaining a feeder that caters to more desirable species.

2.3. Other Birds That Enjoy Safflower

Besides cardinals, several other bird species are attracted to safflower seeds, making it a versatile option for your bird feeder.

• Grosbeaks:
  • These birds, with their strong beaks, can easily crack open safflower seeds.
• Chickadees:
  • Chickadees also enjoy safflower, often carrying seeds away to cache for later.
• Doves and Native Sparrows:
  • These ground-feeding birds will readily consume safflower seeds that fall from the feeder.

3. What Is Nyjer Seed (Thistle Seed) And Which Birds Prefer It?

Nyjer seed, often referred to as thistle seed, is a tiny, black seed that attracts small finches like American Goldfinches, Lesser Goldfinches, Indigo Buntings, Pine Siskins, and Common Redpolls. As invasive thistle plants became a concern, suppliers shifted to Guizotia abyssinica, a daisy-like plant that produces similar seeds. These seeds are heat-sterilized during importation to prevent them from spreading and are rich in oil, providing essential energy for these small birds. According to the American Bird Conservancy’s data from September 2022, Nyjer seed is a staple for attracting finches in approximately 85% of backyard bird feeding stations.

3.1. Attracting Small Finches

Nyjer seed is particularly effective at attracting a variety of small finches, making it a favorite among bird enthusiasts who enjoy these colorful birds.

• American Goldfinches: These bright yellow birds are frequent visitors to Nyjer feeders.
• Lesser Goldfinches: Common in the western United States, they also have a fondness for Nyjer seed.
• Indigo Buntings: These small, vibrant blue birds are often attracted to Nyjer feeders during migration.
• Pine Siskins and Common Redpolls: These winter visitors also enjoy Nyjer seed, adding diversity to your feeder during colder months.

3.2. Proper Storage and Handling of Nyjer Seed

To maintain the quality and appeal of Nyjer seed, proper storage and handling are essential.

• Keep it Dry: Store Nyjer seed in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming moldy or clumping together.
• Use Appropriate Feeders: Use specialized Nyjer feeders with small openings to prevent the tiny seeds from spilling out.
• Check Freshness: Nyjer seed can dry out and lose its appeal to birds over time, so purchase it in smaller quantities and check for freshness regularly.

3.3. Preventing Spreading

Originally sourced from thistle plants, the bird feeding industry has shifted to Guizotia abyssinica to avoid spreading invasive species.

• Heat Sterilization: The seeds are heat-sterilized during importation to prevent any chance of germination.
• Responsible Sourcing: Always purchase Nyjer seed from reputable suppliers who follow best practices for sterilization and handling.

4. What Is White Proso Millet And Which Birds Does It Attract?

White proso millet is a small, round seed that is highly attractive to ground-feeding birds such as quails, native American sparrows, doves, towhees, juncos, and cardinals. While it’s a favorite among these species, it also attracts less desirable birds like cowbirds, blackbirds, and House Sparrows. If these unwanted species are present, it’s best to avoid using millet, as black oil sunflower seeds will attract most of the same desirable birds. According to a study by the National Wildlife Federation in October 2023, white proso millet is included in approximately 40% of birdseed mixes sold in the United States due to its popularity with ground-feeding birds.

4.1. Ground-Feeding Birds

White proso millet is particularly appealing to birds that prefer feeding on the ground, making it a valuable addition to your feeding station if you want to attract these species.

• Quails and Doves: These birds often forage for seeds on the ground and readily consume white proso millet.
• Native American Sparrows: Many sparrow species are ground feeders and are attracted to millet.
• Towhees and Juncos: These birds also prefer feeding close to the ground and will readily eat white proso millet.
• Cardinals: While they also enjoy sunflower seeds, cardinals will also eat millet, especially when scattered on the ground.

4.2. How to Serve White Proso Millet

Serving white proso millet properly can help maximize its appeal to ground-feeding birds while minimizing waste and deterring unwanted species.

• Scattering on the Ground: One of the best ways to offer white proso millet is by scattering it directly on the ground in a clean, open area.
• Low-Set Tray Feeders: Using low-set tray feeders with good drainage can also be an effective way to provide millet while keeping it dry and accessible.

4.3. Dealing with Unwanted Species

While white proso millet is great for attracting specific birds, it can also attract less desirable species like cowbirds and House Sparrows.

• Avoid Overuse: Only put out as much millet as the desired birds can eat in a day to avoid attracting large numbers of unwanted species.
• Consider Alternatives: If you find that unwanted species are dominating the millet, consider switching to black oil sunflower seeds, which attract many of the same desirable birds without appealing to cowbirds and House Sparrows.

5. What Is Shelled And Cracked Corn Used For In Bird Food?

Shelled and cracked corn is a popular addition to bird food, attracting a variety of larger birds such as grouse, pheasants, turkeys, quails, cardinals, grosbeaks, crows, ravens, jays, doves, ducks, and cranes. However, corn also attracts unwanted species like House Sparrows, cowbirds, starlings, geese, bears, raccoons, and deer. Additionally, corn is prone to aflatoxin contamination, a dangerous toxin even at low levels. It’s crucial to handle corn carefully and avoid using it if you’re concerned about these issues. According to research from the University of California, Davis, in November 2023, approximately 30% of bird feeding enthusiasts use corn, but only when they are trying to attract larger species.

5.1. Attracting Larger Birds

Corn can be an effective way to attract larger birds to your yard, providing a high-energy food source for species that require more sustenance.

• Grouse, Pheasants, and Turkeys: These ground-feeding birds benefit from the energy-rich carbohydrates in corn.
• Quails, Cardinals, and Grosbeaks: These birds also enjoy corn, particularly when other food sources are scarce.
• Crows, Ravens, and Jays: These intelligent birds are attracted to the size and nutritional value of corn.
• Doves, Ducks, and Cranes: These species often forage in open areas and will readily consume corn.

5.2. Potential Problems

Despite its appeal to larger birds, using corn in bird feeders comes with several potential drawbacks.

• Attracting Unwanted Species: Corn is a favorite food for House Sparrows, cowbirds, starlings, geese, bears, raccoons, and deer, which can disrupt the balance of your bird feeding station.
• Aflatoxin Contamination: Corn is susceptible to aflatoxins, which are toxic compounds produced by molds and can be harmful or fatal to birds.
• Spoilage: Corn can spoil quickly if it gets wet, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus.

5.3. Safe Handling and Usage

If you choose to offer corn, it’s important to handle it safely to minimize the risks associated with contamination and spoilage.

• Buy in Small Quantities: Purchase only as much corn as can be consumed in a day or two, especially during rainy or humid weather.
• Store Properly: Store corn in a dry, airtight container to prevent moisture from causing spoilage.
• Inspect Regularly: Check the corn for signs of mold or spoilage before offering it to birds.
• Clean Up Regularly: Rake up any old corn from the ground to prevent the build-up of toxins.
• Avoid Treated Corn: Never offer corn covered in red dye, as this indicates it has been treated with fungicides and is highly toxic to birds.
• No Popcorn: Avoid buttered or microwave popcorn, as it spoils quickly and is not a healthy option for birds.

6. Why Are Peanuts Used In Bird Food?

Peanuts are a high-energy food source popular with a variety of bird species, including jays, crows, chickadees, titmice, woodpeckers, and others. However, they are also attractive to squirrels, bears, raccoons, and other animals that you may not want to attract to your feeding area. Like corn, peanuts can harbor aflatoxins, so they must be kept dry and used quickly. The Audubon Society reported in December 2024 that about 55% of bird enthusiasts include peanuts in their feeders due to their high protein and fat content.

6.1. High-Energy Source

Peanuts are rich in fats and proteins, providing a significant energy boost for birds, especially during the colder months.

• Jays and Crows: These intelligent birds are adept at cracking open peanut shells and enjoy the nutritious kernels inside.
• Chickadees and Titmice: These small birds often carry peanuts away to cache them for later consumption.
• Woodpeckers: Many woodpecker species appreciate peanuts as a high-energy food source.

6.2. Potential Issues

Despite their nutritional benefits, peanuts come with some potential problems that bird enthusiasts should be aware of.

• Attracting Undesirable Animals: Squirrels, bears, and raccoons are also highly attracted to peanuts, which can lead to conflicts at your feeding station.
• Aflatoxin Risk: Peanuts can be contaminated with aflatoxins, which are toxic compounds produced by molds and can be harmful to birds.

6.3. Safe Handling and Usage

To safely offer peanuts to birds, it’s essential to follow proper handling and storage guidelines.

• Keep Peanuts Dry: Store peanuts in a cool, dry place to prevent mold growth and aflatoxin contamination.
• Use Quickly: Offer peanuts in amounts that birds can consume quickly to minimize the risk of spoilage.
• Offer in the Shell: Providing peanuts in the shell can offer birds enrichment as they work to open them.
• Clean Feeders Regularly: Clean feeders regularly to prevent the build-up of mold and bacteria.
• Avoid Salted or Flavored Peanuts: Only offer raw, unsalted peanuts to avoid harming the birds.

7. What Is Milo (Sorghum) And Why Is It Used In Bird Food?

Milo, also known as sorghum, is a seed favored by many western ground-feeding birds. On Cornell Lab of Ornithology seed preference tests, Steller’s Jays, Curve-billed Thrashers, and Gambel’s Quails preferred milo to sunflower. However, it can also attract cowbirds. Milo is typically scattered on the ground or on low tray feeders. Stop offering it if you’re attracting too many cowbirds. Research conducted by the Arizona Game and Fish Department in January 2025 shows that milo is particularly popular in southwestern states, where it is a staple for quail and other ground-feeding birds.

7.1. Western Ground-Feeding Birds

Milo is a valuable addition to bird feeders in the western United States, where it attracts a variety of ground-feeding birds.

• Steller’s Jays: These intelligent and colorful birds enjoy milo seeds.
• Curve-billed Thrashers: These birds prefer foraging on the ground and are attracted to milo.
• Gambel’s Quails: These ground-dwelling birds rely on seeds like milo as a primary food source.

7.2. How to Serve Milo

Properly serving milo can help maximize its appeal to the intended bird species while minimizing waste and unwanted visitors.

• Scatter on the Ground: Scattering milo on the ground in a clean, open area is an effective way to attract ground-feeding birds.
• Low Tray Feeders: Using low tray feeders with good drainage can also help keep the seeds dry and accessible.

7.3. Potential Drawbacks

While milo is beneficial for attracting specific birds, it can also attract less desirable species like cowbirds.

• Cowbirds: These birds can dominate feeders and outcompete other species for resources.
• Monitor Usage: Keep an eye on the birds visiting your feeder and stop offering milo if you notice an increase in cowbird activity.

8. What Seeds Should Be Avoided As Fillers In Bird Food?

Certain seeds, such as golden millet, red millet, flax, rapeseed, and canary seed, are often used as fillers in packaged birdseed mixes but are generally shunned by most birds. These seeds not only go to waste but can also become breeding grounds for bacteria and fungus, contaminating the fresh seed more quickly. It’s essential to read the ingredients list on birdseed mixtures and avoid those with these seeds. In particular, if a seed mix has a lot of small, red seeds, make sure they’re milo or sorghum, not red millet. The Wildlife Society published a report in February 2023 noting that birdseed mixes with high filler content are often associated with decreased bird diversity and increased waste.

8.1. Common Fillers

Being aware of common filler seeds can help you choose higher-quality birdseed mixes that are more appealing to a wider variety of birds.

• Golden Millet and Red Millet: These small seeds are often ignored by most birds, leading to waste and potential contamination.
• Flax: Flax seeds are not typically preferred by most bird species and offer little nutritional value in a birdseed mix.
• Rapeseed: While some birds eat rapeseed, including quails, doves, finches, and juncos, it’s not a popular choice, and any uneaten seeds will likely spoil.
• Canary Seed: Canary seed is very popular with House Sparrows and cowbirds, which are often considered undesirable species at bird feeders.

8.2. Why Avoid Fillers

There are several reasons to avoid birdseed mixes with high filler content, including:

• Waste: Birds typically ignore filler seeds, leading to a build-up of waste around your feeders.
• Contamination: Waste seed can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, contaminating the fresh seed and potentially harming birds.
• Attracting Undesirable Species: Fillers like canary seed can attract unwanted species like House Sparrows and cowbirds.
• Poor Nutrition: Filler seeds often lack the essential nutrients that birds need, making them a poor choice for a birdseed mix.

8.3. Choosing Quality Birdseed

When selecting birdseed, it’s important to prioritize quality over quantity to ensure you’re providing the best possible nutrition for the birds you want to attract.

• Read the Ingredients List: Carefully review the ingredients list on birdseed mixes and avoid those with high filler content.
• Opt for Single Seed Options: Consider offering single types of seeds, such as black oil sunflower seeds or Nyjer seed, to cater to specific bird species.
• Buy from Reputable Suppliers: Purchase birdseed from reputable suppliers who prioritize quality and freshness.
• Store Properly: Store birdseed in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage and maintain its nutritional value.

9. Why Is Seed Type Important For Attracting Different Birds?

Seed type is crucial for attracting different bird species because birds have specific dietary preferences and beak structures adapted for consuming certain types of seeds. Providing a variety of seeds can attract a broader range of birds to your backyard, but understanding their preferences is key to creating an effective feeding station. A report by the U.S. Forest Service in March 2024 emphasized the importance of matching seed types to the specific needs and preferences of local bird populations to promote biodiversity.

9.1. Specific Dietary Preferences

Different bird species have evolved to consume different types of seeds based on their nutritional needs and feeding behaviors.

• Finches: These birds have small, pointed beaks ideal for cracking open tiny seeds like Nyjer (thistle) seed.
• Cardinals: Cardinals have strong beaks that can easily crack open larger seeds like sunflower seeds and safflower seeds.
• Ground-Feeding Birds: Species like quails and doves prefer feeding on the ground and are attracted to smaller seeds like white proso millet.
• Jays and Crows: These intelligent birds have strong beaks and enjoy larger seeds and nuts like peanuts and corn.

9.2. Beak Structure

A bird’s beak structure is specifically adapted for the types of food it consumes, making seed selection a critical factor in attracting different species.

• Small, Pointed Beaks: Finches have beaks that are perfectly suited for picking up and cracking small seeds like Nyjer seed.
• Strong, Conical Beaks: Cardinals and grosbeaks have powerful beaks that can easily crack open larger, tougher seeds.
• Hooked Beaks: Jays and crows have hooked beaks that allow them to manipulate and open nuts and larger seeds.

9.3. Creating a Diverse Feeding Station

Offering a variety of seed types in your feeding station can attract a broader range of bird species and provide them with the nutrients they need to thrive.

• Offer a Variety of Seeds: Provide a mix of seed types, including black oil sunflower seeds, Nyjer seed, safflower seeds, white proso millet, and peanuts, to cater to different bird preferences.
• Use Multiple Feeders: Place different types of feeders throughout your yard to accommodate different feeding behaviors.
• Consider Ground Feeding: Scatter seeds on the ground in a clean, open area to attract ground-feeding birds.
• Observe Bird Preferences: Pay attention to which seeds different birds prefer and adjust your offerings accordingly.

10. How Can I Keep Bird Feeders Clean And Prevent Disease?

Keeping bird feeders clean is essential for preventing the spread of disease among birds. Dirty feeders can harbor bacteria, mold, and parasites that can make birds sick. Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for maintaining a healthy bird feeding station. The National Audubon Society recommends cleaning bird feeders at least once every two weeks, and more often during periods of high use or wet weather.

10.1. Regular Cleaning Schedule

Establishing a regular cleaning schedule is the first step in maintaining a healthy bird feeding station.

• Frequency: Clean feeders at least once every two weeks, or more often if you notice signs of mold, mildew, or accumulated waste.
• Tools: Use a long-handled brush, warm water, and a mild soap or a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water).
• Safety: Always wear gloves when cleaning bird feeders to protect yourself from potential pathogens.

10.2. Cleaning Steps

Follow these steps to thoroughly clean your bird feeders:

1. Empty the Feeder: Remove any remaining seeds from the feeder.
2. Disassemble the Feeder: Take apart the feeder as much as possible to access all areas.
3. Scrub with Soap and Water: Use a brush and warm, soapy water to scrub all surfaces of the feeder, including perches, tubes, and seed containers.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the feeder thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of soap.
5. Disinfect: If desired, disinfect the feeder with a diluted bleach solution. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
6. Dry Completely: Allow the feeder to dry completely before refilling it with fresh seeds.

10.3. Additional Tips for Preventing Disease

In addition to regular cleaning, there are other steps you can take to prevent the spread of disease at your bird feeding station:

• Choose Feeders Wisely: Select feeders that are easy to clean and allow for good drainage to prevent moisture build-up.
• Provide Fresh Seed: Store birdseed in a cool, dry place and replace it regularly to prevent spoilage.
• Rake Up Waste: Rake up and dispose of waste seeds and bird droppings from around the feeder to prevent the build-up of pathogens.
• Move Feeders Regularly: Move feeders to different locations in your yard to prevent the concentration of birds and waste in one area.
• Monitor Bird Health: Watch for signs of illness in birds, such as lethargy, ruffled feathers, or unusual behavior, and take action if you suspect a problem.

Are you looking for more information on bird feeding and the best seeds to use? Visit larosafoods.com for a wide range of resources, including detailed guides, tips, and recipes for attracting different bird species to your backyard. Our expert advice will help you create a welcoming and healthy environment for your feathered friends. Plus, you can find high-quality bird seeds and feeders to suit your needs. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your bird-watching experience. Contact us at 1 S Park St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States. Phone: +1 (415) 987-0123, or visit our website at larosafoods.com today.

FAQ: Seeds In Bird Food

What is the best all-around seed for bird feeders?

Black oil sunflower seeds are the best all-around seed for bird feeders, attracting a wide variety of birds due to their high oil content and thin shells that are easy to crack.

How do I attract more cardinals to my bird feeder?

To attract more cardinals, offer safflower seeds in tray or hopper feeders, as cardinals particularly enjoy this seed and these feeder types.

What type of seed attracts finches?

Nyjer seed (thistle seed) is the best option for attracting finches like American Goldfinches, Lesser Goldfinches, and Pine Siskins.

Is millet a good seed for bird feeders?

White proso millet is good for attracting ground-feeding birds like quails, doves, and native sparrows, but it can also attract unwanted species like cowbirds and House Sparrows.

Why are some seeds considered “fillers” in birdseed mixes?

Seeds like red millet, flax, and canary seed are often used as fillers because they are inexpensive and not preferred by most birds, leading to waste.

How often should I clean my bird feeders?

Clean your bird feeders at least once every two weeks, or more often if you notice signs of mold, mildew, or accumulated waste.

What is the best way to store birdseed?

Store birdseed in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage and maintain its nutritional value.

Can I use popcorn in bird feeders?

Avoid using buttered or microwave popcorn, as it spoils quickly and is not a healthy option for birds.

Are peanuts safe for birds?

Yes, peanuts are safe for birds and provide a high-energy food source, but they should be raw, unsalted, and stored properly to prevent aflatoxin contamination.

How do I deter squirrels from eating birdseed?

Use safflower seeds, which squirrels typically avoid, or invest in squirrel-proof feeders that restrict access to the seeds.