Bird Delight - 10 Best Bird Seed Mixes for Attracting a Variety of Feathered Friends

Looking for the perfect bird food to keep your feathered friends well-fed and happy? You’re in luck! We’ve put together a roundup of some of the top bird seed options available in the market today. From nutritious blends to delightful flavors, our list covers everything you need to know to make the right choice for your furry friends. Read on and discover the best bird seed for all your bird feeding needs.

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Reviews

Premium Wild Bird Food Blend for Attracting Variety of Bird Species

Enhance your backyard birdwatching experience with Audubon Park Wild Bird Food, a top-quality blend designed to attract a wide variety of bird species. This 10 lb bag features a classic combination of grain, white proso millet, and black oil sunflower seeds, ensuring that you provide a hearty and appealing option for finches, sparrows, juncos, cardinals, towhees, quail, doves, and buntings. Best of all, the versatile formula works well in hopper, tube, or platform feeders, making it a convenient and accessible choice for any nature enthusiast.

As an added bonus, Audubon Park Wild Bird Food is proudly American-made and owned by a family who takes great care in the quality of their ingredients. While some customers have reported a minor mess or the need to replace their previous bird seed brand, the overall consensus is that this bird food is a reliable and enjoyable option for attracting a diverse array of birds to your backyard.

Kaytee Wild Bird Cardinal Blend Food Seed for Cardinals, Chickadees, Nuthatches, and Grosbeaks, 7-Pound

The Kaytee Wild Bird Cardinal Blend is a premium combination of seeds designed to attract cardinals, chickadees, nuthatches, and grosbeaks. Rich in black oil sunflower seeds and safflower, this blend offers a high oil content that these birds love, while also providing a barrier packaging that seals in freshness and helps prevent infestation. Safflower’s bitter taste acts as a squirrel deterrent, ensuring your feeder attracts the intended birds.

Although some birds, like starlings, may struggle to consume safflower due to its bitterness, overall the blend has a great track record of attracting cardinals and other birds to your feeder.

Global Harvest Foods Economy Mix Bird Seed - 10 lb. Bag

Recently, I’ve been using the Global Harvest Foods Economy Mix Wild Bird Feed, and it’s been quite an experience. The first thing that caught my attention was the packaging - it was quite basic and looked less expensive than the branded options. But let me tell you, this inexpensive bag was filled with a ton of bird-friendly seeds that kept a variety of wild birds coming back for more.

One feature I really appreciated was the blend of ingredients. This food didn’t just contain corn, but also sunflower seeds, millet, and plenty of others to ensure a diverse group of birds could enjoy it. The birds seemed to love it, and it quickly became a popular food source in my neighborhood.

However, that being said, there were a couple of downsides to this feed. Firstly, I found it to be quite messy. As I was refilling the feeders, I could hardly breathe due to the clouds of dust that rose from the bag. It got everywhere and was a bit of a hassle to clean up.

Secondly, it was a bit harder to distribute the seeds evenly across the feeders. The mix seemed to lump together and become a bit clumpy, which I found a bit of a challenge. Nevertheless, once the birds found out about this new food source, they didn’t seem to care one bit about these minor inconveniences.

Overall, while it was a bit messy and tricky to distribute, the Global Harvest Foods Economy Mix Wild Bird Feed proved to be a hit with the birds in my neighborhood. So much so, that even though it’s the most basic, budget-friendly option, it’s been a great addition to my bird-watching routine. I’m quite happy with the product, and I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to save a bit of money while still feeding the neighborhood birds.

Kaytee Premium Bird-Friendly Oil Sunflower Seed - 5 lb Bag

Kaytee Black Oil Sunflower Seeds shine as the top choice for attracting a diverse range of wild birds. With high oil content, these seeds provide essential energy year-round, while their thinner hulls make them easier for smaller songbirds like cardinals and chickadees to consume. This 5-pound bag ensures an ample supply for bird enthusiasts.

While the seeds do leave a mess under the feeder, the benefits seem to far outweigh any inconvenience.

Kaytee Sunflower Birdseed: 3 lbs Bag for Attracting Birds

Kaytee Sunflower Hearts Chips attract a diverse array of wild birds, with sunflower hearts and chips acting as a magnet for goldfinches, cardinals, and other favorite species. This product allows bird lovers to effortlessly feed birds without causing the pesky seed hull waste beneath the feeder. Ideal for outdoor use, the seeds are perfect for small breeds and come in a convenient 3-pound bag.

With an overall rating of 4.4 and 522 reviews, the Kaytee Sunflower Hearts Chips have proven themselves as a quality birdseed option for bird enthusiasts.

Premium Parrot Bird Seed – Higgins Safflower Gold, 25-lb Bag

Looking for a delicious and nutritious bird food for your pet parrot? The Higgins Safflower Gold Parrot Food is just what you need! This premium safflower based diet is a wonderful option to ensure your pet bird gets the nutrients they need without any sunflower seeds. The food is specially formulated with all the necessary vitamins and minerals, making it the perfect choice for your feathered friend. Unlike other safflower based diets, this one stands out with its colorful and attractive blend of chili peppers, peanuts, raisins, coconut, pineapple and papaya chunks, cashews, almonds, walnuts, and pistachios.

This food is suitable for all breed sizes and life stages, so you can rest assured that your parrot is getting the best possible diet. It is available in a 25-pound bag, making it a convenient and long-lasting choice for pet owners. The Higgins Safflower Gold Parrot Food is a top-quality product that has received numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers, who praise its nutritious ingredients and bird-approved taste.

Ultimate 7 lb. Songbird Blend Bird Seed (2-Pack)

I recently tried the Pennington Ultimate Songbird Food Blend during my backyard birdwatching, and let me tell you - it’s a game changer. This birdseed attracts a crazy variety of beautiful songbirds just by placing it in their bird feeder. The mix contains a delightful combination of black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, peanuts, and raisins, all of which creates an irresistible treat for these little critters.

The feeding frenzy that occurs at my feeder makes me wonder if I will have enough space left on it. It seems the birds are fighting tooth and claw, all for a chance to enjoy this ultimate blend. However, the only downside I’ve noticed is the necessity of procuring this premium blend more frequently than the average birdseed I usually use.

While the Pennington Ultimate Songbird Food Blend does attract a diverse crowd of songbirds, I noticed a small issue with the packaging itself. The thick plastic bucket seems rather bulky and unnecessary, adding an extra level of difficulty when trying to open it. However, if the songbirds keep enjoying it, I guess this minor inconvenience can be overlooked.

Overall, I’m thoroughly impressed by the Pennington Ultimate Songbird Food Blend. Its ability to attract a wide variety of colorful songbirds and the sheer delight birds show when they chow down on it makes this blend a top choice in my book. I will definitely continue to add it to my bird feeder in the future, rancid seeds or messy packaging be damned.

Sunflower & Grains Dry Wild Bird Feed, 5 lbs

The Sunflower & Natural Grains Wild Bird Feed is a perfect year-round blend for your backyard birds, featuring a generous amount of wild birds’ favorite, black oil sunflower seeds. This bird food blend attracts a variety of colorful birds to your feeders, including finches, chickadees, nuthatches, woodpeckers, cardinals, grosbeaks, titmice, and other backyard birds. It is suitable for use in a hopper, tube, or platform feeder.

Some customers have reported issues with bug infestations in the bagged product, leading to disappointment and concerns about the quality of the feed. This is a major concern for those who purchase large quantities of the product, as it can lead to serious problems in the household, particularly for those with young children or sensitive allergies.

On the positive side, many customers appreciate the variety of birds that are attracted to the feed, with some noting the appearance of woodpeckers, blue jays, and even deer at their feeders. They highlight the affordability of the product compared to other bird seed options in the market.

Overall, the Sunflower & Natural Grains Wild Bird Feed can be a good option for those looking to provide a variety of birds with a nutritious meal, but concerns about bug infestations in the product could deter some potential buyers.

Nature’s Song Premium 4 lb Safflower Bird Seed

Bring your backyard to life with Nature’s Song Safflower Bird Seed, a favorite among birding enthusiasts. This high-energy seed is perfect for attracting a variety of birds, including cardinals, chickadees, jays, titmice, and woodpeckers. Designed for use in hopper, tube, or platform feeders, this 4-pound bag of bird seed is a must-have for bird lovers everywhere.

Not just a delicious snack for birds, Nature’s Song Safflower Seed also does an excellent job of repelling pesky squirrels, allowing you to enjoy the company of the feathered friends in your very own yard.

Blue Seal Neat Feast Bird Food: 20-lb Bag for Avian Delights

Recently, I decided to create a cozy backyard bird feeding station for the winter. I went for Blue Seal’s Neat Feast Bird Food, and it turned out to be a great choice.

With no shells, the food is neat and clean, with no messy cleanup. It’s perfect for my patio, where birds can enjoy an energy-boosting mix of sunflower chips, peanuts, coarse cracked corn, pistachios, walnuts, pecans, and pumpkin seeds.

The variety in the mix attracts a wide range of birds, and I’ve noticed more activity around my feeding station since I started using Neat Feast. It’s a delight to see different species of birds feasting on my deck, without any annoying shells left behind. Overall, I’m thrilled with my decision to try Blue Seal’s wild bird products, and I’d highly recommend Neat Feast for a hassle-free and clean bird feeding experience.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive buyer’s guide for bird seed, where we will provide you with valuable information to help you choose the right bird seed for your feathered friends. By understanding the key features and considerations of bird seed, you can make an informed decision and ensure that the birds in your backyard are well-fed and healthy.

Types of Bird Seed

There are several types of bird seed available, each designed to attract a specific group of birds. Some of the most common types include:

1. Sunflower seed, 2. Safflower seed, 3. Nyjer (also known as thistle seed), 4. Millet, and 5. Peanut seed. Each type has its unique characteristics, so it’s essential to know which birds you want to attract before making a purchase.

Quality and Nutritional Value

When selecting bird seed, ensure that you choose high-quality products to provide the best nutrition for your birds. Look for seeds that are fresh and free of contaminants. Check the seed packages for information on nutritional content, as some seed blends contain more proteins, fats, and vitamins than others.

Allergen and Fillers

Some bird seed blends may contain allergens, such as wheat or soy. If you have birds with sensitive digestive systems, look for bird seed blends that are allergen-free. Additionally, avoid bird seeds with excess fillers, which can reduce the overall nutritional value for your birds. Instead, opt for products that have minimal fillers and focus on the core ingredients.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and nutritional value of bird seed. Keep your bird seed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Most bird seed products have a shelf life of at least one year, but you should still monitor their freshness to avoid stale or moldy seeds. To extend the shelf life, consider using airtight containers or vacuum sealers to protect the seeds.

FAQ

What types of bird seed are available on the market?

There is a wide variety of bird seed available, including sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, millet, and shelled corn. Some seeds are designed for specific bird species, while others are a mix of different types of seeds to attract a variety of birds. It’s essential to research the type of bird seed that best suits your region and the birds you want to attract.

Additionally, you can opt for bird feed that has been enriched with natural oils, fats, and minerals, which can offer additional nutrition to birds. Some bird feeds also contain no-melt grits, which provide a source of energy during cold weather. Selecting the right bird seed will ensure that you attract the desired visitors to your garden or outdoor space.

How much bird seed should I use for feeding birds?

The amount of bird seed you provide depends on the number of birds you want to attract and the availability of natural food sources in your area. A good starting point is to provide enough seed to cover the ground, ideally in a shallow, wide-topped seed feeder or tray. This makes it easier for birds to find food and prevents the seeds from becoming soggy or moldy.

It’s essential to keep an eye on the amount of seed you provide to ensure it doesn’t go to waste. During winter months, when natural food sources are scarce, you may need to provide more seed. In the summer, when plants are producing seeds, you can gradually reduce the amount of seed you offer to help birds transition to a more natural diet.

Can I feed birds with leftover human food?

Yes, you can feed birds with certain human foods, but only in moderation and as a supplement to their diet. Some good options include unsalted nuts, fruits (particularly those with a thick skin), and cooked vegetables without added salt or seasonings. Avoid using highly processed, fatty, or sugary foods, as they may be detrimental to the birds’ health.

However, it’s essential to remember that feeding birds table scraps should be limited and only done in moderation. Ideally, use a specialized bird feeder designed for feeding wild birds with a proper bird seed mix. Overfeeding or providing unsuitable food can be detrimental to their health and disrupt their natural feeding habits.

How often should bird seed be changed?

It’s essential to change the bird seed regularly to maintain its freshness and quality. We recommend replacing the seed in your feeders at least once a week. This frequency ensures that the seeds stay fresh and free from mold or other contaminants. Additionally, keep an eye on the number of birds visiting your feeders and adjust the amount of seed accordingly.

If you notice a dramatic decrease in the number of birds you usually see, consider cleaning your bird feeders to eliminate any disease or pesticide residue that may have accumulated on the seed. Cleaning the feeders will help maintain the health and safety of your local bird population and ensure they continue to visit your area.

What are the benefits of using a bird feeder to feed birds?

Using a specialized bird feeder offers several advantages compared to scattering seeds on the ground. First and foremost, birds can easily access the seed, which encourages them to return to the feeder for food. This helps establish a regular feeding habit and can become a valuable bird-watching activity.

Secondly, bird feeders prevent the seeds from becoming soggy or moldy, thus reducing the risk of diseases and parasites. Bird feeders also come in various designs, sizes, and materials, which can help you choose one that suits your garden and preferences. Ultimately, using a bird feeder promotes a safe, convenient, and efficient way to feed birds in your outdoor space.

How do I clean the bird feeders I am using?

Cleaning bird feeders is essential to maintain the health and well-being of the local bird population. To clean your feeders, follow these steps:

1. Empty the feeder completely and remove any old seed or debris. 2. Use a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap to scrub the feeder thoroughly, paying special attention to any crevices or areas where seed may accumulate. 3. Rinse the feeder thoroughly with clean water and allow it to air dry completely before reassembling and refilling it.

It’s a good idea to clean your bird feeders at least once every few weeks or after each bird flu outbreak to minimize any potential health risks to the birds. Additionally, inspect the feeders regularly for any wear and tear, and replace them if necessary to ensure they are functioning properly and safely.

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