Custom Bird Food Blends: 10 Secret Recipes That Keep Birds Coming Back Daily (2024)

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

You’ll love creating custom bird food blends that transform your backyard into a bustling avian hotspot.

Mix sunflower seeds, nyjer, safflower, and dried mealworms to match local birds’ preferences – it’s like crafting a gourmet menu for your feathered friends.

Unlike store-bought mixes filled with ignored fillers, your personalized blend makes sure every seed serves a purpose.

Cardinals might swoon over sunflower seeds, while finches flock to nyjer.

The secret lies in understanding which ingredients attract specific species and combining them in just the right proportions.

Master this mix-and-match approach, and you’ll discover why some backyard birders never buy pre-made again.

Benefits of Custom Bird Food Blends

You’ll transform your backyard into a bustling bird paradise when you create custom seed blends that match your local birds’ natural food preferences.

You’ll transform your backyard into a bustling bird paradise when you create custom seed blends that match your local birds’ natural food preferences.

Your feathered friends won’t just grab a quick snack and fly away – they’ll make your yard their favorite dining spot as they feast on nutritious ingredients perfectly mixed for their needs.

Attracting Diverse Bird Species

While many backyard birders dream of attracting a variety of feathered friends, creating the perfect blend is like being a chef for birds.

You’ll want to mix different seed sizes and textures to welcome both tiny finches and larger cardinals.

Think of your yard as nature’s buffet – some birds love sunflower seeds, while others can’t resist nuts or dried fruit.

The key? Variety breeds diversity.

Providing Essential Nutrition

Three essential nutrients make the difference between basic bird feed and a power-packed custom blend that keeps your feathered friends healthy.

Your backyard birds need more than just seeds to thrive.

A well-crafted mix delivers complete nutrition that supports their active lifestyle.

• Proteins fuel muscle growth and feather development
• Healthy fats provide important energy for flight and warmth
• Vitamins and minerals strengthen bones and boost immune systems

Encouraging Birds to Return

Beyond nutrition, you’ll want to create a delightful backyard buffet that keeps birds coming back.

Strategic blends can turn your yard into a go-to destination for feathered friends.

You’re not just feeding birds – you’re building relationships that’ll transform your backyard into their favorite dining spot.

Convenience and Consistency

Setting up AutoShip for your bird seed blend is like having your own personal birdseed butler.

You’ll never run dry with scheduled deliveries every two weeks, and you can adjust the frequency to match your feeder’s needs.

It’s a game-changer for busy bird enthusiasts – no more emergency runs to the store or disappointed visitors at your feeder.

Plus, consistent feeding helps establish reliable bird-watching routines.

Choosing The Right Bird Seed

You’ll be amazed at how different bird species have their own seed preferences, just like we all have our favorite snacks at the kitchen table.

You can create the perfect blend that’ll turn your backyard into a bustling bird café with quality options like sunflower seeds, safflower, nyjer seeds, mealworms, and corn available.

Sunflower Seed

Inside the realm of backyard bird feeding, sunflower seeds reign supreme as the ultimate crowd-pleaser. You’ll find two main types: black oil and striped. Black oil seeds have thinner shells, making them perfect for smaller birds, while striped varieties attract larger species. Both pack serious nutritional punch, offering essential fats and proteins.

• Watching cardinals crack open shells with their powerful beaks is pure backyard entertainment
• The satisfying ‘crack’ as chickadees expertly split seeds brings joy to any morning
• There’s something magical about seeing goldfinches flock to fresh sunflower seeds
• The way blue jays strategically carry off multiple seeds never fails to impress
• Nothing beats the pride of attracting native birds with the perfect seed choice

Safflower

Standing proud among bird seed options, safflower’s thick white shell packs a nutritional punch that cardinals can’t resist.

You’ll love how this seed naturally deters squirrels while attracting your favorite feathered friends.

Pro tip: Store your safflower seeds in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to six months.

Nyjer Seed

You’ll find Nyjer seeds are like tiny black gold for finches.

These small, oil-rich seeds pack a powerful nutritional punch and are particularly irresistible to goldfinches, siskins, and redpolls.

When you’re setting up your feeders, remember that Nyjer needs special tube feeders with tiny holes – regular ones won’t cut it.

Don’t stock up too much though; these seeds can go rancid quickly if stored improperly.

Meal Worms

Many backyard birds can’t resist the high-protein punch of mealworms.

Whether you choose live or dried options, these tasty treats pack essential nutrients that’ll keep your feathered friends energized.

Store dried mealworms in a cool, dry place, and serve them solo or mix them into your custom blend.

Pro tip: Bluebirds and chickadees go crazy for mealworms, especially during nesting season when they need extra protein.

Corn

White and yellow cracked corn brings a different crowd to your backyard buffet.

While mealworms attract smaller songbirds, corn draws in larger visitors like wild turkeys, doves, and quails.

You can find a great selection of corn-based wild bird mixes, like a blend specifically for wild birds, at many online retailers.

It’s budget-friendly and works great in ground feeders.

Just keep it dry – wet corn can spoil quickly and grow mold.

Pro tip: scatter small amounts daily rather than offering a full spread.

Creating Your Own Bird Seed Mix

You’ll discover that creating your own bird seed mix isn’t just about saving money – it’s about becoming your backyard birds’ favorite chef.

With the right combination of seeds, nuts, and dried fruits, you can craft a custom blend that’ll have your feathered friends lining up like customers at a five-star restaurant.

Pros and Cons of Making Your Own Mix

Creating custom bird seed mixes puts you in control of quality and variety.

You’ll save money by buying ingredients in bulk and eliminate fillers found in commercial blends.

You can also find products related to your custom blends at a homemade bird food store, such as homemade bird food online.

However, mixing your own blend requires time for research, measurement, and storage management.

Without proper knowledge of nutritional needs, you might create an unbalanced mix that birds avoid.

Storage space and ingredient freshness also become your responsibility.

Tips for Creating a Balanced Mix

Success in bird seed mixing starts with understanding the perfect balance of ingredients.

You’ll want to craft a mix that meets birds’ nutritional needs while keeping them coming back for more.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

After mastering the basics of blending, let’s look at what not to do. You’ll want to dodge these common pitfalls that can turn your bird-feeding adventure into a flop.

Remember, birds are picky eaters. Just like you wouldn’t serve stale chips to guests, don’t offer moldy seeds to your feathered friends.

Best Bird Seed Mixes for Your Backyard

You’ll find that choosing the right bird seed mix can turn your backyard into a bustling avian hotspot, with premium blends like Wagner’s Gourmet Nut N’ Fruit attracting everything from finches to blue jays.

Whether you’re looking for protein-packed mealworms or classic cracked corn, we’ll show you the top-rated seed mixes that’ll keep your feathered friends coming back for seconds.

Wagner’s Gourmet Nut N’ and Fruit – Best Overall

While crafting your own seed mix has its perks, Wagner’s Gourmet Nut N’ and Fruit stands out as the champion of ready-made blends.

You’ll find it’s worth every penny, bringing a parade of colorful visitors to your yard.

• Premium nuts and fruits that birds can’t resist
• Zero fillers or cheap ingredients
• Attracts both large and small bird species
• Perfect size mix for any feeder type
• Stays fresh longer than budget blends

You’re not just buying bird food – you’re investing in a backyard bird sanctuary that keeps your feathered friends coming back for more.

The blend’s quality speaks for itself, making your bird-watching experience truly rewarding.

Kaytee Cracked Corn – Best Corn Food

Many backyard birders swear by Kaytee Cracked Corn as their go-to choice for larger birds.

You’ll find this clean, bright-colored maize attracts an impressive lineup of visitors – from turkeys and jays to doves and quails.

While it’s a bit pricier than generic options, you’re paying for Kaytee’s trusted quality and superior cleanliness.

It’s perfect for platform feeders and ground feeding stations.

Kaytee Mealworm Wild Bird Food – Best Dried Mealworms

Dried mealworms pack a protein punch that’ll turn your backyard into a bird magnet.

Kaytee’s oven-dried mealworms stay fresh longer than live ones and won’t squirm away!

You’ll attract bluebirds, robins, and chickadees without the hassle of maintaining a worm farm.

Mix them with your regular seed blend or serve them solo – these tasty treats guarantee repeat visitors to your feeder.

Brown’s Song Blend Shelled Peanut – Best Shelled Peanuts

Blue Jays go nuts for Brown’s Song Blend Shelled Peanuts – literally!

You’ll love how these premium peanuts come perfectly sized for feeders, staying fresh in their resealable bag.

Pro tip: use a dedicated feeder to prevent larger birds from hogging all the goods.

These high-quality nuts aren’t just for the birds – squirrels can’t resist them either, so plan your feeder placement strategically.

Wild Delight Deck Porch N’ Patio – Best Wild Bird Food

While shelled peanuts attract specific birds, Wild Delight Deck Porch N’ Patio opens your yard to a rainbow of songbirds.

You’ll love watching the variety this premium blend brings to your feeders.

Popular Bird Seed Brands for Custom Blends

You’ll find excellent bird seed brands like Duncraft and Cole’s that make your custom blending journey easier with their quality ingredients and specialized mixes.

These trusted manufacturers offer everything from basic seed blends to premium mixes packed with nuts and dried fruits, so you can create the perfect feast for your feathered visitors.

Duncraft

Here’s a closer look at Duncraft, one of your top choices for quality bird seed blends.

They’ve mastered the art of creating mixes that birds can’t resist, with their Super No-Waste Blend leading the pack.

Here’s a quick snapshot of their most popular options:

Their AutoShip program lets you schedule regular deliveries, so you’ll never run out of seed when your feathered friends come calling.

Lizzie Mae’s Bird Seed

Bird enthusiasts flock to Lizzie Mae’s for their expertly crafted seed blends.

You’ll find everything from shell-free mixes to hot pepper blends, all designed to keep your feeders buzzing with activity.

Their AutoShip service lets you customize delivery schedules, so you’re never caught empty-handed when your backyard visitors come calling.

All blends come in convenient 5-lb bags, perfect for trying different recipes.

D & D Commodities Ltd

Through D & D Commodities Ltd, you’ll discover premium wild bird seed blends that showcase quality in every kernel.

Their Wild Delight series offers specialized mixes like Zero-Waste Fruit Blend and Woodpecker & Nuthatch N’ Chickadee.

You’ll love their flexible bag sizes – choose between 5-lb and 20-lb options.

Plus, their AutoShip service means you’ll never run out of seed when your backyard friends need it most.

F M Brown’s Sons Inc

Stepping into the realm of premium bird feeding, you’ll find F M Brown’s Sons Inc offering unique blends that’ll make your backyard the talk of the feathered community.

Their specialty mixes, like the Fancy Finch with Cranberries and No Squirrels…Just Birds, pack a powerful punch.

You’ll appreciate their 5-lb bags with AutoShip options, making it easy to keep your feeders stocked.

Cole’s Wild Bird Feed

Consistently ranked among top bird feed brands, Cole’s delivers quality blends that’ll transform your backyard into a bustling bird paradise.

Choose from various bag sizes and set up AutoShip for hassle-free feeding.

Things to Avoid as a First-Time Bird Seed Shopper

You’ll notice a huge difference in the types of birds your backyard attracts when you skip the bargain-bin bird seed blends that are packed with unwanted fillers.

When you’re shopping for bird seed for the first time, you’ll want to watch out for three common mistakes that could turn your bird-feeding hobby into a frustrating experience.

Bulk Buying

While those top brands offer enticing bulk discounts, buying large quantities as a beginner can backfire.

You’ll want to test different blends first to see which birds actually visit your yard.

Starting with smaller 5-lb bags lets you experiment without wasting money on seed that might go stale.

Plus, fresh seed keeps birds coming back – and that’s what we’re all aiming for.

Cheap Seed Mixes

Beyond the tempting price tag, cheap bird seed mixes can cost you more in the long run.

Here’s what you’ll typically find in budget blends that drive birds away:

• Cracked corn that’s gone stale or moldy
• Broken seeds with minimal nutritional value
• Red millet that most birds won’t eat
• Seeds that have been stored improperly, leading to spoilage

Skip the bargain bins and invest in quality mixes that’ll keep your feathered friends coming back.

Common Fillers

Watch out for those sneaky fillers in your bird seed mix – they’re like the fast food of the bird world!

Now that you know about cheap mixes, let’s look at what’s hiding in them.

Here’s a quick guide to spot and avoid common fillers:

How to Store Your Custom Bird Food Blend

You’ve crafted the perfect bird seed blend, but now you’ll need to protect it from moisture and unwanted visitors like insects and rodents.

Proper storage isn’t just about keeping your blend fresh – it’s about maintaining the nutritional value that’ll keep your feathered friends coming back for more.

Tips for Keeping Your Blend Fresh

Now that you’ve learned what to avoid, let’s keep your bird seed blend fresh and inviting.

Proper storage makes all the difference between happy birds and wasted seed.

Best Storage Containers for Bird Seed

Your bird seed’s home matters as much as your blend choice.

The best containers keep unwanted guests out while maintaining freshness.

Metal canisters with tight-fitting lids are top picks, followed by heavy-duty plastic tubs with snap-lock seals.

Glass jars work great for smaller amounts, while food-grade buckets handle bulk storage like champs.

Just remember – if mice can’t chew through it, you’re golden.

Feeding Your Birds With Custom Blends

You’ll transform your backyard into a bustling bird cafe when you match the right custom blend with the perfect feeder setup.

Whether you’re serving up premium songbird mix in tube feeders or offering cardinal delight in platform feeders, you’ll create an irresistible dining experience that keeps your feathered friends coming back for seconds.

Choosing The Right Feeders

From classic tube feeders to modern squirrel-proof designs, picking the right feeder makes all the difference in attracting birds.

If you’re struggling with unwanted visitors, consider investing in a squirrel proof feeder to protect your custom blends.

Tips for Feeding Your Birds

After setting up the perfect feeder, let’s look at some feeding strategies that’ll make your backyard the neighborhood’s favorite bird restaurant.

Remember to adjust portions based on local bird activity.

Like any good host, you’ll soon learn your visitors’ preferences!

How Often to Feed Your Birds

Birds thrive on consistency in terms of feeding schedules.

Keeping feeders filled helps establish reliable feeding patterns and strengthens the bond between you and your backyard visitors.

Here are some tips for keeping your feathered friends happy:

1. Fill feeders twice daily during peak morning and evening hours
2. Monitor consumption rates to adjust portions accordingly
3. Double your portions during breeding season and cold weather
4. Clean and refill feeders every 2-3 days in wet weather

Custom Bird Food Blends for Specific Bird Species

You’ll discover the perfect mix to attract your favorite backyard visitors, whether you’re trying to bring cardinals, finches, songbirds, or woodpeckers to your yard.

Just like you wouldn’t serve the same meal to every dinner guest, each bird species needs its own special blend of seeds and treats to keep coming back for more.

Finches

Tiny, colorful finches bring life to your backyard with their cheerful songs and social behavior.

You’ll want to grab a specialized tube feeder and fill it with Nyjer seeds – these little powerhouses can’t resist them!

Mix in some small sunflower chips and canary seeds for variety.

Pro tip: hang multiple feeders close together, as finches love to feed in groups like tiny feathered party-goers.

Cardinals

Attracting the vibrant red plumage of cardinals requires a strategic blend that matches their natural preferences.

You’ll want to create a custom mix that mirrors their favorite foods in the wild.

Here’s your perfect cardinal blend recipe:

1. 40% black oil sunflower seeds for essential fats
2. 30% safflower seeds to deter squirrels
3. 20% cracked corn for ground feeding
4. 10% shelled peanuts for protein boost

Songbirds

Your backyard symphony needs the right mix to keep performing.

While cardinals love their sunflower seeds, songbirds crave variety.

Mix Duncraft’s Super Songbird blend with dried mealworms and you’ll have chickadees, titmice, and wrens fighting for front-row perches.

For best results, add some fruit bits – these little performers go wild for dried cranberries and raisins in their daily feast.

Woodpeckers

The persistent drumming of woodpeckers signals it’s time to stock up on their favorite treats.

You’ll want a blend rich in nuts, especially peanuts and sunflower hearts.

Wild Delight’s Woodpecker & Nuthatch blend hits the sweet spot, featuring high-energy ingredients these busy birds crave.

Mix in some dried mealworms and suet chunks for protein-packed power that’ll keep them coming back for more.

Where to Buy Custom Bird Food Blends

You’ll find high-quality custom bird seed blends at trusted retailers like Duncraft, Lizzie Mae’s, and Wild Delight, where you can choose from specialized mixes designed for specific bird species.

Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping with AutoShip options or the personal service at your local specialty bird store, you’ll discover the perfect blend to keep your feathered friends coming back for more.

Online Retailers

Online bird-food marketplaces like Duncraft, Lizzie Mae’s, and Wild Delight offer extensive custom blend options with hassle-free AutoShip subscriptions.

Compare prices, shipping costs, and customer reviews across platforms to find your perfect match.

Pro tip: Look for retailers offering satisfaction guarantees and free returns – it’s worth paying a bit more for peace of mind when trying new blends.

Local Pet Stores

Many local pet stores carry reputable bird seed brands and can mix custom blends on-site.

You’ll find knowledgeable staff ready to recommend blends based on your backyard visitors.

While prices might be slightly higher than online retailers, you’ll save on shipping and can inspect seed quality firsthand.

Most stores stock essential supplies like feeders and storage containers, making them convenient one-stop shops for all your bird feeding needs.

Specialty Bird Stores

Stepping beyond pet stores, specialty bird shops offer a goldmine of expertise you won’t find anywhere else.

You’ll connect with passionate staff who live and breathe birds, ready to craft custom blends based on your backyard visitors.

These stores often feature testing stations where you can watch birds react to different seed mixes, helping you pick the perfect blend for your feathered friends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)