One of the most delightful little creatures that can bring liveliness and excitement to any garden or backyard is none other than birds. Feeding these birds is certainly the easy hack to keep them coming back to your yard until or unless they are pet birds. Giving wild bird food to them is not simply a pastime but a caring way to show support, particularly during scarce and migrating months.
However, not every food is created equal when it comes to bird diet. Giving them the right and balanced food guarantees their happiness and health, attracting a lot of species to your backyard or garden. This Pet Life Expert’s inspirational guide is about the best wild bird foods. Also, we’ll cover some special and common foods for feeding feathered friends with useful seasonal feeding tips.
Benefits of Feeding Wild Bird Food
It is more than simply a hobby to feed wild bird food because it not only contributes to bird populations’ well-being but also connects you with nature. By providing them food and that too, in winter or other harsh months, you majorly support their survival. Here are some of the prominent benefits described:
- Improved bird health
- Migration support
- Survival during tough times
- Bird watching opportunities
- Potential for habitat mitigation
Introducing Some Common Wild Bird Foods
Here’s a list of some common food options for wild birds.
Seeds
Sunflower and Nyjer seeds are two options in wild food categories for birds. Black-oil sunflower seeds with thin shells are easy to crack for birds, and striped sunflower seeds with thicker shells are perfect for larger birds. Additionally, Nyjer Seeds (thistle seeds) are perfect for attracting goldfinches, siskins, and finches.
Grains
A little, round grain called millet is frequently included in bird feed mixtures. Birds that feed on the ground, such as juncos, sparrows, and doves, find it appealing. For convenient access, scatter it on the ground or in low feeders. Additionally, you can go for a budget-friendly cracked corn free from molds, as moldy grains can harm birds.
Fruits
Birds with sweet teeth like to eat fresh apples, so you can slice them up and remove the seeds before adding them to the feeders. Additionally, you can serve them berries either fresh or dried along with other types like cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
Suet
Made from animal fat, suet is a high-energy diet that is ideal for winter feeding. Because of its high-calorie content, birds such as woodpeckers, chickadees, and nuthatches flock to suet. You can make your combination with fruit, nuts, and seeds, or serve it in feeders as premade suet cakes.
Nuts
For woodpeckers, titmice, and nuthatches, unshelled, unsalted peanuts make a healthy snack. To make choosing easier, distribute them on a level surface or put them in mesh feeders. Additionally, some animals, like woodpeckers and jays, eat acorns in the wild by nature. You may emulate their natural diet by providing them with food in your yard.
Introducing Some Specialty Wild Bird Foods
Now let’s have a look at some specialty diet options for wild birds to serve them the best food.
Nectar
Hummingbirds are highly attracted to flowers that provide them with nectar, which is a juicy and sweet solution. However, when it comes to attracting those wild birds, you can prepare this solution by yourself using one part sugar and four parts waters. Be sure to not use harmful ingredients like artificial dyes.
Mealworms
Some insect-eating birds are highly attracted to mealworms, which are a protein-packed treat for them. Bluebirds, robins, and wrens can eat them live or dried. Serve them in a specialized feeder, which is useful for nesting season, providing extra energy to their birds.
Commercially Prepared Bird Foods
Bird seed mixes are good for different types of species. However, it is advised to be aware of fillers like milo or wheat, which are not liked by birds and are harmful to them. Prefer a premium mix of high-quality sunflower seeds, nuts, fruits, and other nutritional ingredients.
Seasonal Considerations for Bird Feeding
When it comes to wild bird food, there are some seasonal considerations you must look out for.
Winter Feeding
The most challenging time for birds is undoubtedly winter when they need to survive in harsh weather with limited food sources. You can offer high-calorie-dense foods like peanuts, sunflower seeds, and suet. These food items help birds maintain their energy levels. Make sure the feeder is filled during this season, as birds can land anytime.
Spring/Summer Feeding
Additionally, during warm months, birds usually pay attention to their young’s growth and nourishment. During this period, you can offer them protein-rich foods like fruits, mealworms, and suet. Eliminate high-fat foods from their diet, as they are not required if natural food is served in abundance.
Attracting Specific Bird Species
Here are some quick hacks to attract some specific feathered friends for wild bird food to your backyard or garden.
Tips on How to Attract Finches
Sunflower hearts and Nyjer seeds are the options to which brightly colored finches are mostly attracted. You can use small port feeders that can align with the preferences of these birds.
Tips for Attracting Cardinals
Safflower and sunflower are the items that are loved by Cardinals. Platforms or hopper feeders can be selected to give space to birds on perch.
Drawing Hummingbirds to Your Yard
To attract hummingbirds naturally, you can give them plant flowers like bee balm and trumpet vines. That way, you can provide these birds a way to come back to your yard.
To Wind Up
Giving wild bird food to your feathered friends can help them grow and turn your yard into a beautiful space. You may give your feathered guests a safe and healthy environment by knowing what to feed them, adhering to seasonal recommendations, and avoiding dangerous behaviors. In this comprehensive guide, you will get to know some of the common and specialty diet options to feed your birds, allowing them to visit your yard often to eat healthy and nutritious food.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
Which Food Is Best To Give Year Round to Wild Birds?
The most suitable and nutritious food to give to wild birds are suet and sunflower seeds. These are the versatile food options that can align many wild birds.
Do Wild Birds Eat Rice?
Yes! You can feed uncooked rice to your wild birds in a moderate amount. In addition, it is safe to give cooked rice as well, as long as it is plain and unsalted.
How To Clean Feeders of Bird Food?
To clean feeders, you can use nine parts water and one part solution. Rinse the feeder thoroughly and set it to completely dry before refilling.
How Do I Safely Introduce Suet to Wild Birds?
Before introducing suet to your wild birds, add them to a specialized feeder. Next, hang it in a shaded area during warm months to prevent spoiling and melting.
Why Must Bird Bread Not Be Given to Birds?
It is highly recommended to not give bread to your birds, as it not only lacks essential nutrients but also can expand in a bird’s stomach, resulting in harming bird health.
