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In the context of bird seed types and prices, you’ve got plenty of options to keep your feathered friends happy without emptying your wallet.
Black oil sunflower seeds are a favorite, attracting cardinals, chickadees, and finches, costing around $20-$30 for a 20-25 lb bag.
Nyjer seeds are pricier, at $25-$40 for 10 lbs, but perfect for goldfinches.
Safflower seeds, squirrel-resistant and loved by cardinals, run $25-$35 for 25 lbs.
Millet is budget-friendly at $15-$25 for 20 lbs, while mixed blends vary from $15-$50 depending on quality.
Bulk buying and seasonal sales can save you money—your backyard birds will thank you!
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Bird Seed Basics
- Top 10 Bird Seeds
- 1. Wagner 62059 Greatest Variety Wild Bird Food
- 2. Lyric High Energy Wild Bird Seed Mix
- 3. Wagner 25 lb Black Oil Sunflower Bird Seed
- 4. Shafer 25 lb Safflower Seed
- 5. Wagner Nyjer Seed Wild Bird Food 10 Pound
- 6. Shafer 50 lb White Proso Millet Bird Seed
- 7. Wagner 18542 10 Pound Cracked Corn Wild Bird Food
- 8. Lyric No Waste Wild Bird Seed Peanut Pieces
- 9. Morning Song Wild Bird Food Dove Quail Pigeon Mix
- 10. Kaytee Wild Bird Food Mealworms 176 oz
- Bird Seed Types
- Bird Seed Prices
- Choosing Quality Bird Seeds
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the best birdseed to attract the most birds?
- What is the cheapest way to feed the birds?
- Why is bird seed suddenly so expensive?
- How do you store bird seed long-term?
- What bird seeds deter unwanted pests effectively?
- Can bird seed attract specific bird species?
- Are organic bird seeds worth the cost?
- How do you prevent mold in bird seed?
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- Buy black oil sunflower seeds for cardinals, chickadees, and finches; they’re affordable and packed with nutrients.
- Use safflower seeds to attract cardinals while deterring squirrels with their bitter taste.
- Nyjer seeds are perfect for goldfinches, though pricier, and require special feeders to prevent waste.
- Save money by buying birdseed in bulk during seasonal sales and storing it properly to maintain freshness.
Bird Seed Basics
You’ll find that different bird seeds attract specific feathered friends to your yard, with options like fat-rich sunflower seeds for cardinals and tiny nyjer seeds for goldfinches.
Different bird seeds bring unique feathered friends, like sunflower seeds for cardinals or nyjer seeds for goldfinches, to brighten your yard.
Understanding these basics helps you pick the right mix that won’t empty your wallet while still providing the nutrition birds need for energy, feather production, and a strong immune system.
Sunflower Seeds and Their Characteristics
You’ll love sunflower seeds for your feathered friends! These nutritional powerhouses pack 40% fat, 16% protein, and 20% carbohydrates.
Black oil sunflower seeds are the most popular type, with thin shells that birds crack open easily.
Striped sunflower seed costs less but has thicker shells, while hulled sunflower seed comes pre-shelled.
Their high oil content makes them irresistible to cardinals, jays, woodpeckers, and finches!
Nyjer Seeds and Their Benefits
Nyjer seeds (also called thistle seed) are tiny black powerhouses for your feathered friends.
These small seeds pack a punch with 36% fat, 21% protein, and 13% carbohydrates. Goldfinches can’t get enough of them!
A detailed bird seed feeding guide offers helpful tips for attracting various species.
Store nyjer seeds in a cool, dry place as they can spoil quickly. They’re sterilized to prevent sprouting, making them perfect for tidy yards. Your finch nutrition needs are covered with these little black gems!
Safflower Seeds as a Squirrel-resistant Alternative
Are you tired of squirrels raiding your bird feeders?
Safflower seeds are your secret weapon—birds love them, but squirrels can’t stand the bitter taste!
Safflower seeds might be your new best friend. These white, thin-shelled seeds are a natural squirrel deterrent while still attracting cardinals, grosbeaks, and doves.
Squirrels typically avoid safflower’s slightly bitter taste, but birds don’t mind it at all. For best results, store your safflower seed in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Top 10 Bird Seeds
You’ll find these top 10 bird seeds packed with nutrients that attract a wide variety of feathered friends to your yard.
From high-energy mixes to specialized seeds like black oil sunflower and nyjer, you can pick the perfect option that fits both your budget and the birds in your neighborhood.
1. Wagner 62059 Greatest Variety Wild Bird Food
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This popular blend consistently attracts a variety of songbirds to your yard with its diverse mix of ingredients. You’ll notice chickadees, cardinals, finches, and jays flocking to your feeder in no time.
Wagner’s 62059 packs 40% sunflower seeds along with safflower, millet, nyjer, peanuts, and more into a 16-pound bag. It works great in tube, hopper, or platform feeders.
While some customers mention occasional moisture issues, most find it’s a great value. For best results, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent clumping.
Best For: Bird enthusiasts looking to attract a wide variety of songbirds with a high-quality seed mix.
- Some customers report occasional moisture issues leading to mold or clumping.
- Bag may develop a foul smell if not stored properly.
- Price may be considered high compared to bulk seed options.
- Contains 40% sunflower seeds, attracting diverse birds like cardinals, finches, and jays.
- Works with various feeder types, including tube, hopper, and platform feeders.
- High-quality ingredients with a good mix of seeds, nuts, and fruit.
2. Lyric High Energy Wild Bird Seed Mix
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Looking for premium nutrition for your backyard visitors? Lyric High Energy Wild Bird Seed Mix offers a gourmet blend of 13 premium ingredients with no fillers.
You’ll find fruits, seeds, and shell-free nuts including peanuts, almonds, and sunflower kernels. At $42.99 for a 40-lb bag at Home Depot, it’s pricier than basic seed, but you’ll waste less since birds eat everything.
It’s perfect for attracting chickadees, robins, blue jays, and orioles. The all-natural mix fuels birds’ high activity levels, though smaller birds might struggle with larger nuts.
Best For: Bird enthusiasts who want to attract a variety of species and prefer a filler-free, all-natural seed mix.
- Contains 13 premium, all-natural ingredients with no fillers.
- Attracts a wide variety of birds like chickadees, robins, blue jays, and orioles.
- Less waste as birds consume the entire mix.
- Pricier than basic bird seed mixes.
- Larger nuts may be difficult for smaller birds to eat.
- Potential to attract squirrels and other wildlife.
3. Wagner 25 lb Black Oil Sunflower Bird Seed
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Value hunters rejoice! Wagner’s 25 lb Black Oil Sunflower Bird Seed offers serious bang for your buck at just $15.98.
This American-made seed attracts a rainbow of feathered visitors like cardinals, chickadees, and finches with its thin shells that even small-beaked birds can crack.
For larger quantities, consider bulk buying sunflower seeds.
The high energy content keeps your backyard friends healthy and active. Many customers report it’s cleaner and better quality than what you’ll find at big box stores.
Just be aware that while birds love it, you might also get some squirrel visitors crashing your bird buffet!
Best For: Bird enthusiasts looking for an affordable, high-quality seed mix that attracts a wide variety of birds.
- No velcro closure on the bag for easy resealing.
- May attract squirrels and unwanted species like house sparrows.
- Potential for raccoons to dig up seeds if used for planting.
- Attracts a variety of birds, including cardinals, chickadees, and finches.
- High energy content promotes bird health and activity.
- Affordable price point for a large bag size.
4. Shafer 25 lb Safflower Seed
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For birdwatchers who struggle with pesky squirrels, Shafer 25 lb Safflower Seed is your secret weapon.
Priced at $36, this white seed effectively discourages squirrels while attracting cardinals, chickadees, and other desirable birds to your yard.
Customers love that it keeps blackbirds away too, and many report raccoons won’t touch it.
The sturdy 25-pound bag comes with a reliable handle, making it easy to pour.
It’s more cost-effective than smaller bags from retailers like Walmart, and you won’t need to lug around the heavier 50-pound option.
Best For: Birdwatchers seeking an effective bird seed that deters squirrels and problem birds while attracting cardinals and other desirable species.
- Discourages squirrels, blackbirds, and raccoons.
- Attracts cardinals, chickadees, and other desired birds.
- Sturdy, easy-to-carry packaging with great value for the price.
- Deer may still be attracted to the seed.
- Safflower seed can be relatively pricey from most sources.
- Thick shells may make it challenging for some birds to crack.
5. Wagner Nyjer Seed Wild Bird Food 10 Pound
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Finch enthusiasts, you’ve hit the jackpot with Wagner’s Nyjer Seed! This 10-pound bag packs a whopping 150,000 seeds per pound, making it incredibly cost-effective.
Your tiny visitors will flock to this high-fat, high-protein treat that’s specially cleaned for premium quality. Goldfinches, House Finches, and Purple Finches simply can’t resist it—many customers report birds actually prefer Wagner’s over other brands!
The convenient press-lok keeps seeds fresh while the small size discourages larger birds, creating a finch-exclusive dining experience in your backyard.
Best For: Finch enthusiasts looking for a high-quality, cost-effective seed to attract Goldfinches, House Finches, and Purple Finches.
- High-fat and high-protein content appeals to finches.
- Convenient press-lok packaging keeps seeds fresh.
- Discourages larger birds, ensuring a finch-specific feeding experience.
- Limited to finch-specific feeders with small holes.
- May not attract a wide variety of birds.
- Requires proper storage to maintain freshness.
6. Shafer 50 lb White Proso Millet Bird Seed
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Shafer’s 50 lb White Proso Millet Bird Seed offers fantastic value for bird lovers.
This 100% natural, USA-grown seed attracts a wide variety of feathered friends to your yard. You can use it alone or mix it with other seeds for your own custom blend.
Ground-feeding birds like sparrows, doves, and pigeons absolutely love this nutrient-rich millet. The sturdy, sewn-shut brown bag keeps seeds fresh until you’re ready to use them.
Customers report their birds gobble it up immediately! For the best results, store in a cool, dry place, and enjoy the wide variety of birds that visit your yard.
Best For: Bird enthusiasts who want a cost-effective, high-quality seed to attract a variety of ground-feeding birds like sparrows, doves, and pigeons.
- 100% natural, USA-grown, nutrient-rich seed.
- Versatile for use alone or in custom seed mixes.
- Sturdy, sewn-shut packaging maintains freshness.
- Requires proper storage to avoid attracting pests.
- Suitable only for seed-eating birds and rodents.
- Not packaged in resealable or pest-proof containers.
7. Wagner 18542 10 Pound Cracked Corn Wild Bird Food
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Wagner’s cracked corn brings the ground-feeding birds flocking to your yard.
This 10-pound bag attracts Blue Jays, Cardinals, Doves, and Juncos, plus wildlife like rabbits and chipmunks.
You can feed it alone or mix it with other seeds for variety.
Many bird enthusiasts use it separately from regular feeders to keep squirrels busy elsewhere.
The sturdy bag opens easily but doesn’t reseal, so have a container ready.
While some users think the price is a bit high, it’s worth it when you see ducks, geese, and pigeons gathering for their corn feast!
Best For: Ground-feeding birds and wildlife enthusiasts who want to attract a variety of species like Blue Jays, doves, rabbits, and ducks.
- Attracts a wide range of birds and small animals.
- Can be fed alone or mixed with other seeds for versatility.
- Sturdy bag design opens easily.
- Bag does not reseal, requiring separate storage.
- Some users find the price per pound high.
- May need to be blended for finer consumption by smaller birds.
8. Lyric No Waste Wild Bird Seed Peanut Pieces
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Simplicity meets nutrition with Lyric No Waste Wild Bird Seed Peanut Pieces.
These split, shelled peanuts are 100% edible, so you won’t find messy shells scattered under your feeder.
They’re a big hit with woodpeckers, chickadees, jays, and nuthatches thanks to their high protein and fat content.
You’ll need feeders with holes large enough for the peanuts – tube, wire mesh, hopper, or open-tray styles work best.
Many customers say their birds prefer these over regular seed, though you’ll want to check for mold after rainy days.
Best For: Bird enthusiasts who want a no-mess, high-protein feed that attracts a variety of wild songbirds.
- 100% edible with no waste or messy shells.
- High protein and fat content for bird health.
- Attracts a wide range of bird species, including woodpeckers, chickadees, and jays.
- Requires feeders with large enough holes for peanut pieces.
- Needs monitoring for mold after rain.
- Some birds and squirrels dislike over-roasted, dark brown peanuts.
9. Morning Song Wild Bird Food Dove Quail Pigeon Mix
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Looking for the perfect ground-feeding bird mix? Morning Song Dove Quail Pigeon Mix (7-pound bag) is your go-to solution for attracting doves, quail, sparrows, and juncos to your yard.
It’s packed with a tasty blend of red milo, white millet, and black oil sunflower seeds that ground-feeders love. You’ll want to sprinkle it directly on the ground or use a table feeder for best results.
Many bird watchers report seeing more visitors after switching to this mix. Just remember to clean up any uneaten seeds regularly to keep your feeding area tidy.
Best For: Ground-feeding bird enthusiasts looking to attract doves, quail, sparrows, and juncos with a quality mix.
- Attracts various ground-feeding birds like doves, quail, and sparrows.
- Contains red milo, white millet, and black oil sunflower seeds preferred by birds.
- Can be used on the ground or in table feeders for versatility.
- Uneaten seeds may require regular cleanup to avoid mess.
- Some birds may avoid certain seed types like orange seeds.
- Limited to ground-feeding species and not as effective for other bird types.
10. Kaytee Wild Bird Food Mealworms 176 oz
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Feathered friends will flock to your yard for Kaytee Wild Bird Food Mealworms.
This 17.6-ounce bag packs a protein punch that’s irresistible to bluebirds, wrens, robins, and chickadees.
The oven-dried mealworms maintain all the nutritional benefits of live ones without the squirm factor.
You can serve them alone or mix them with seed for an energy-boosting treat.
They’re especially valuable during winter when birds need extra calories.
The ziplock seal keeps them fresh, and at just 1.1 pounds, this bag offers great value that’ll keep your birds coming back.
Best For: Attracting wild birds like bluebirds, wrens, robins, and chickadees, as well as supporting their dietary needs during colder months.
- High-protein, oven-dried mealworms provide essential nutrition for birds.
- Convenient ziplock bag ensures freshness and easy storage.
- Can be fed alone or mixed with seeds for versatility.
- Size limited to 17.6 ounces, may not last long if feeding many birds.
- Squirrels are known to enjoy the mealworms, which could attract unwanted feeders.
- Rehydration required for additional nutritional benefits, adding an extra step.
Bird Seed Types
You’ll find different bird seeds attract specific feathered friends to your yard, with options like black oil sunflower, nyjer, safflower, and striped sunflower each having their own special appeal.
Each seed type contains different amounts of fat, protein, and carbs that birds need, so picking the right mix helps you attract cardinals, finches, woodpeckers, or whatever birds you hope to see, which is why choosing the right seed is crucial for attracting your desired feathered friends.
Black Oil Sunflower Seed and Its Attractions
Black oil sunflower seed is the superstar of bird seeds! With its thin shell and high oil content (40% fat), it’s easy for birds to crack open.
Cardinals, nuthatches, finches, and woodpeckers can’t resist this nutritious treat. The high fat content keeps birds warm in winter, while the 16% protein helps with feather production.
Store your black oil sunflower seeds in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness. For best results, consider using sunflower seed feeders to attract a variety of bird species, making it a great way to provide a high fat content and variety of bird species.
Striped Sunflower as a Less Expensive Alternative
When your bird feeding budget is tight, striped sunflower seeds offer a wallet-friendly alternative to black oil varieties.
They’re slightly larger with thicker shells, but still attract plenty of feathered friends. The quality of sunflower seed products can substantially impact the types of birds that visit your feeder.
- Costs about 15-25% less than black oil sunflower seeds
- Attracts Bluejays, Cardinals, and Woodpeckers specifically
- Requires stronger beaks to crack open the thicker shells
- Works well in platform or hopper feeders for larger birds
Nyjer Seed and Its Finch Preferences
Finches’ favorite treat, nyjer seed (also called thistle), packs a nutritional punch with 36% fat and 21% protein.
You’ll notice goldfinches, purple finches, and chickadees flocking to your feeder when you offer this tiny black seed.
For best finch attraction, store nyjer in a cool, dry place to maintain seed quality.
Unlike sunflower seed, nyjer seed‘s small size requires special tube feeders with tiny openings.
The high oil content in nyjer seed makes it a great example of seed nutritional benefits.
Safflower Seed and Its Cardinal Attractions
Cardinals flock to the humble safflower seed like treasure hunters to gold.
These tough-shelled seeds contain 38% fat, 16% protein, and keep squirrels away from your feeders.
You’ll notice Northern Cardinals, House Finches, and Mourning Doves enjoying this nutritious treat while pesky squirrels stay away.
For best Cardinal diet results, use platform feeders.
Safflower benefits include high nutrition value and natural pest deterrence.
The high quality safflower seed products are a key factor in attracting these birds to your yard, providing natural pest deterrence.
Bird Seed Prices
You’ll find bird seed prices vary widely from $0.99 to $2.87 per pound, depending on where you shop and how much you buy.
Buying in bulk from stores often saves you money compared to online shopping, with options like sunflower seeds being more affordable than specialty seeds like Nyjer.
Online Prices and Their Variations
Now that we’re familiar with different types of seed, let’s talk money! Online bird seed prices can vary wildly depending on where you shop.
Here’s what you’ll typically find:
- Amazon charges higher prices at $2.87 per pound
- Chewy.com offers moderate prices at $2.23 per pound for 20-pound bags
- Bird specialty stores might charge $0.99 per pound
- Fleet Farm has some of the best deals at $0.89 per pound
Shopping around for online deals and bulk savings can really help your wallet! Considering the best bird seed options is essential for attracting the desired bird species to your feeder.
In-store Prices and Their Comparisons
While online shopping offers convenience, don’t overlook in-store bird seed prices.
You’ll find surprising deals at local retailers compared to online giants. When selecting a bird seed, consider the best bird seed options for your feathered friends.
| Store | Product | Price/lb |
|---|---|---|
| Local Bird Store | Standard Mix | $0.99 |
| Walmart | Wagner Classic | $1.28 |
| Fleet Farm | Bulk Seed | $1.34 |
| Chewy | Premium Mix | $2.23 |
| Amazon | Same Product | $2.87 |
Shop around for the best seed costs—your feathered friends won’t mind where you bought it, and always look for surprising deals at local stores to get the most out of your in-store shopping experience.
Buying in Bulk for Cheaper Options
While store prices vary, let’s talk about stretching your dollar further!
Buying bulk bird seed can save you serious cash. You’ll pay less per pound at places like Tractor Supply or CountryMax, and many offer bulk discounts on wholesale prices.
Plus, you’ll have a steady supply on hand, cutting down on those last-minute store runs. Just be sure to use proper seed storage to keep everything fresh!
Factors Affecting Bird Seed Prices
While buying in bulk saves money, several factors drive birdseed prices up these days.
The war in Ukraine has impacted seed production costs, while increased freight and fuel expenses add to the final price tag.
Labor costs, packaging increases, and widespread droughts affecting crop yields also play a role in what you’ll pay.
Market trends show consumer demand remains high despite these challenges to seed quality.
The rising costs of birdseed can be attributed to various factors, including seed production costs.
Choosing Quality Bird Seeds
You’ve got to pay attention to freshness and quality when picking bird seeds, as stale seeds can harm birds and go to waste.
Look for airtight packaging, check expiration dates, and stick to trusted brands to guarantee you’re giving your feathered friends the best.
Importance of Expiration Dates and Freshness
Check expiration dates before buying—it’s the easiest way to guarantee bird seed freshness.
Fresh seeds smell nutty, not musty, so trust your nose.
Store seeds in airtight containers to maintain seed quality and avoid waste.
Packaging materials matter too; sturdy bags keep moisture out.
Fresh bird seed types last longer, saving you money and keeping your feathered friends happy.
Recognizing Quality Brands and Their Packaging
Quality packaging keeps bird seed fresh and safe.
Look for sturdy, resealable bags that block moisture and pests. Top brands focus on quality control, ensuring seeds stay nutritious.
Here’s what to check:
- Packaging Materials: Airtight and durable bags.
- Freshness Checks: A nutty smell means fresh seeds.
- Brand Reviews: Trusted bird seed brands like Wagner or Lyric are reliable.
Purchasing From Reputable Retailers for High-quality Seeds
If you want the best bird seed, always go with trusted birdseed suppliers.
Retailer reviews can spotlight stores selling authentic products.
Freshness matters—so check expiration dates before buying.
Bulk discounts cut birdseed costs while ensuring plenty to go around.
Look for reliable birdseed for sale, as bird seed cost comparison reveals quality often wins over cheap deals, and consider the importance of freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best birdseed to attract the most birds?
Sunflower seeds, especially black oil sunflower seeds, are your best bet for attracting the widest variety of birds.
They’re rich in nutrients, easy to crack open, and loved by cardinals, finches, woodpeckers, and more!
What is the cheapest way to feed the birds?
Buy birdseed in bulk to save money, and stick to affordable options like black oil sunflower seeds or white proso millet.
Use homemade feeders, and scatter seeds directly on the ground to skip costly feeders.
Why is bird seed suddenly so expensive?
Bird seed prices can jump due to droughts or crop failures, which lower supply.
Add rising transportation costs and increased demand during winter, and you’ve got a recipe for higher costs at the feeder.
How do you store bird seed long-term?
Store bird seed in an airtight container, like a sturdy plastic bin with a lid, to keep it fresh.
Place it in a cool, dry spot, away from sunlight and pests, like a pantry or garage.
What bird seeds deter unwanted pests effectively?
To keep pests away, try safflower seeds.
Birds like cardinals love them, but squirrels and other critters don’t.
Their tough shells and bitter taste make them a smart choice for a pest-free feeder.
Can bird seed attract specific bird species?
Ever noticed how sunflower seeds charm cardinals or nyjer seeds lure goldfinches?
Choosing the right seed can transform your backyard into a bird paradise, attracting species like woodpeckers, doves, and even bluebirds.
Are organic bird seeds worth the cost?
Organic bird seeds can be worth it if you value pesticide-free options and higher-quality nutrition for birds.
They’re pricier, but they guarantee cleaner, healthier feeding, especially for eco-conscious bird lovers aiming to support wildlife responsibly.
How do you prevent mold in bird seed?
Mold loves damp, so don’t give it a chance.
Use airtight containers, store seeds in a cool, dry spot, and clean feeders often.
Also, only fill feeders with what birds can finish quickly, to prevent giving mold a chance to grow.
Conclusion
Feeding birds is like painting your backyard with life and color.
By understanding bird seed types and prices, you can attract a variety of feathered friends without overspending.
Black oil sunflower seeds draw cardinals, while Nyjer seeds charm goldfinches.
Safflower seeds keep squirrels away, and millet is a budget-friendly staple.
Shop smart by buying in bulk or during sales.
With the right choices, your yard becomes a haven for birds—and your wallet stays happy too!
- http://www.birdchick.com/blog/2020/12/12/whats-the-best-bird-seed-mix-to-buy
- https://www.walmart.com/browse/patio-garden/bird-seeds/5428_1102183_7802063_3504553
- https://www.homedepot.com/b/Outdoors-Pet-Supplies-Wildlife-Bird-Wildlife-Supplies-Bird-Seed-Food/N-5yc1vZc7q3
- https://www.familyfarmandhome.com/catalog/pet-wild-bird/bird/seed.html
- https://www.quora.com/Where-is-the-cheapest-place-to-get-bird-seed-Is-it-best-to-buy-bird-seed-and-suet-in-bulk-to-get-the-best-prices
