This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.
You’ll find several bird seed types and prices to fit your backyard birding goals.
Black oil sunflower seeds ($20-30/20lb) attract cardinals and chickadees with their high oil content. Nyjer seeds run pricier ($25-40/10lb) but goldfinches can’t resist them.
Safflower seeds ($25-35/25lb) offer a squirrel-resistant option that cardinals love. Millet ($15-25/50lb) appeals to ground-feeding birds like doves.
For a ready-made solution, quality bird seed mixes cost $15-40 depending on ingredients. The freshness of your seed matters as much as the type – birds can tell when seed has lost its nutritional value.
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 inexpensive bird seed?
- What is the cheapest way to feed the birds?
- Why is bird seed suddenly so expensive?
- What is the best birdseed to attract the most birds?
- 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?
- How to attract specific bird species?
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- Black oil sunflower seeds ($20-30/20lb) are your best overall value, attracting the widest variety of birds with their thin shells and high 40% fat content that cardinals, chickadees, and finches can’t resist.
- You’ll save significantly by buying seed in bulk from farm supply stores like Tractor Supply or Fleet Farm (as low as $0.89/lb), but you’ll need proper airtight storage containers to maintain freshness and prevent mold.
- If squirrels are raiding your feeders, switch to safflower seeds ($25-35/25lb) which deter squirrels and blackbirds while still attracting cardinals and chickadees with their high 38% fat content.
- Don’t overlook seed freshness—always check expiration dates, store in cool dry places, and choose seeds with a nutty aroma to ensure your birds get maximum nutritional value and keep coming back to your feeders.
Bird Seed Basics
You’ll find that understanding bird seed basics helps you attract the right birds to your feeders.
Knowing the types, nutritional content, and benefits of seeds like sunflower, nyjer, or safflower guarantees both you and your feathered visitors are happy.
Sunflower Seeds and Their Characteristics
Sunflower seeds are a must-have for attracting birds.
They are a versatile and nutritious bird food choice.
Black oil sunflower seeds are a top choice, with thin shells and high oil content birds love.
Black oil sunflower seeds: the backyard favorite, packed with energy-rich oil and easy-to-crack shells that birds can’t resist.
Striped sunflower seeds, with thicker shells, are budget-friendly but less popular.
For a no-mess option, hulled sunflower seeds come pre-shelled.
These varieties attract cardinals, woodpeckers, and finches.
They also provide a high fat content, making them an excellent energy source with high oil content and a nutritious choice.
Nyjer Seeds and Their Benefits
Nyjer seeds, often called finch seed, are a jackpot for goldfinches and other small-beaked birds.
With high nutritional value—36% fat, 21% protein, and 13% carbs—they’re perfect for finch preferences.
Sterilized during processing to prevent sprouting, these little black seeds keep your yard tidy.
However, spoilage prevention is key—store nyjer seeds in cool, dry places.
Use specialized feeder types to avoid waste.
Origin sources like Ethiopia and India guarantee top quality.
Wagner Nyjer Seed is a reliable choice your feathered friends will love!
Safflower Seeds as a Squirrel-resistant Alternative
Tired of squirrels hoarding your feeders? Try safflower seed—it’s the squirrel-resistant option birds adore!
With a hard shell and a slightly bitter taste, these small, white seeds deter squirrels while drawing in cardinals, grosbeaks, and doves.
Packed with excellent safflower nutrition, they offer good fats and proteins birds need.
Unlike other bird seed types, safflower’s shell hardness and unique flavor keep pesky squirrels at bay.
For freshness, store it in a cool, dry spot.
Squirrels out, feathered friends in!
Top 10 Bird Seeds
Choosing the right bird seed can make all the difference in attracting your favorite feathered visitors.
Here’s a detailed look at the top ten options that balance nutrition, variety, and value for 2025.
1. Wagner 62059 Greatest Variety Wild Bird Food
View On Amazon
It’s no surprise that Wagner’s 62059 Greatest Variety Wild Bird Food is a favorite among bird enthusiasts.
Packed with a rich blend of 40% sunflower seeds, safflower, millet, nyjer, peanuts, and more, this 16-pound bag is designed to attract chickadees, cardinals, finches, and jays to your yard.
The mix works perfectly in tube, hopper, or platform feeders, offering flexibility for your setup.
While some users note occasional moisture issues, proper storage in an airtight container can keep the seeds fresh and clump-free.
With its high-quality ingredients and consistent results, this blend is a reliable choice for anyone looking to enhance their backyard birdwatching experience.
Best For: Backyard birdwatchers looking to attract a variety of colorful songbirds, including cardinals, finches, jays, and chickadees.
- Occasional moisture or mold issues reported in some bags.
- Requires airtight storage to maintain freshness and prevent clumping.
- Higher price compared to some other birdseed blends.
- Rich blend with 40% sunflower seeds and 12 other high-quality ingredients.
- Suitable for tube, hopper, or platform feeders, offering flexibility.
- Attracts a wide variety of bird species, including ground feeders.
2. Lyric High Energy Wild Bird Seed Mix
View On Amazon
If you’re aiming to spoil your backyard birds, Lyric High Energy Wild Bird Seed Mix is a fantastic choice.
This premium blend includes 13 all-natural ingredients like almonds, pecans, cranberries, and sunflower kernels.
There’s no waste here—everything is edible, and it’s free of messy shells or fillers.
It’s a bit pricey, around $42.99 for a 40-lb bag at Home Depot, but the quality makes it worth it.
Birds like chickadees, robins, orioles, and blue jays love it, though smaller birds might need larger pieces broken down.
This mix provides the high energy birds need, especially during colder months or nesting seasons.
Best For: Bird enthusiasts looking for a premium, shell-free feed to attract a variety of wild birds with minimal mess.
- Contains 13 all-natural ingredients with no fillers or shells.
- Attracts a wide variety of birds, including chickadees, robins, and blue jays.
- Provides high-energy nutrition, ideal for colder months or nesting seasons.
- Higher price compared to standard bird seed mixes.
- Larger pieces may need chopping for smaller birds.
- Requires careful storage to avoid meal moth infestations.
3. Wagner 25 lb Black Oil Sunflower Bird Seed
View On Amazon
Wagner’s 25 lb Black Oil Sunflower Bird Seed is a backyard birding essential. It’s as well as affordable also packed with high energy, making it a favorite among cardinals, chickadees, finches, and even woodpeckers.
The thin shells are perfect for small-beaked birds, so you’ll see a wider variety of feathered friends flocking to your yard. Made in the USA, this seed is known for its exceptional cleanliness compared to typical big-box store alternatives.
Plus, it’s 100% black oil sunflower seed, offering unmatched quality and nutrition. While this seed attracts birds in droves, be prepared to spot squirrels sneaking in for a snack, so consider using squirrel-proof feeders for better results.
It’s nature’s buffet, right in your backyard.
Best For: Backyard bird enthusiasts looking to attract a wide variety of small-beaked songbirds with high-quality sunflower seeds.
- May attract squirrels if not used with squirrel-proof feeders.
- Only available in a large 25-pound bag, limiting options for smaller portions.
- No reviews available to confirm customer experiences yet.
- Attracts a diverse range of birds, including cardinals and finches.
- Thin shells make it easy for small-beaked birds to eat.
- High energy content supports bird health.
4. Shafer 25 lb Safflower Seed
View On Amazon
If squirrels and blackbirds are hogging your bird feeder, Shafer 25 lb Safflower Seed could be your perfect fix.
These bitter-tasting seeds deter uninvited pests like squirrels and raccoons while drawing in cardinals, chickadees, and grosbeaks.
At $36 for a 25-pound bag, it’s a solid value compared to smaller bags at retailers like Walmart, helping your budget go further.
The sturdy packaging with a convenient handle makes pouring easy, saving you hassle during refills.
Plus, it’s all-natural and grown in the USA, ensuring quality for your feathered visitors.
With fewer nuisance birds crowding your feeder, you’ll enjoy more serene birdwatching moments in your yard.
Best For: People who want to attract cardinals and chickadees while deterring squirrels and nuisance birds like blackbirds.
- Attracts desired birds like cardinals and grosbeaks while repelling pests.
- Large 25-pound bag offers better value than smaller options.
- Sturdy packaging with a handle makes it easy to pour and store.
- Higher upfront cost compared to smaller bags.
- Bitter taste may limit use if mixed with other seed types.
- Not ideal for attracting all bird species.
5. Wagner Nyjer Seed Wild Bird Food 10 Pound
View On Amazon
Feeding your feathered friends? Nyjer seeds are like gourmet dining for finches! Packed with 150,000 seeds per pound, Wagner’s Nyjer Seed guarantees frequent visits and happy birds.
Its high fat and protein content is perfect for Goldfinches, House Finches, and Purple Finches, while the tiny seeds make it inaccessible to bigger birds.
The press-lok packaging keeps it fresh, cutting down on waste and mess.
Bird lovers rave about its quality—many say it’s their finches’ favorite! Plus, these seeds create no growth or cleanup headaches. Add this trusted choice to your feeder, and watch as your backyard fills with cheerful chirps!
Best For: Bird enthusiasts who want to attract finches and small songbirds to their feeders with minimal mess and high-quality seed.
- Packed with 150,000 seeds per pound for frequent feeder visits.
- High fat and protein content, ideal for nurturing finches.
- No waste, mess, or seed growth for a clean backyard experience.
- Relatively expensive compared to seed blends.
- Imported product may sometimes face availability issues.
- Not suitable for feeding larger bird species.
6. Shafer 50 lb White Proso Millet Bird Seed
View On Amazon
Shafer’s 50 lb White Proso Millet Bird Seed is a go-to choice for ground-feeding birds like sparrows, doves, and pigeons.
Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this seed supports bird health and energy. Its small grain size makes it easy for smaller birds to handle, and the all-natural, USA-grown millet guarantees consistent quality.
The seed comes in a sturdy, sewn-shut brown bag for easy storage and freshness, perfect for long-term use when kept in a cool, dry spot. Whether you use it alone or mix it into custom blends, it’s a flexible, budget-friendly option.
Birdwatchers love how it attracts a wide variety of feathered friends, making your yard a hotspot during migratory seasons. It’s simple, effective, and always bird-approved!
Best For: Attracting ground-feeding birds and birdwatchers looking for a high-quality, cost-effective seed option.
- High in protein, fiber, and vitamins for bird health.
- Small grain size ideal for smaller birds.
- Sturdy packaging ensures long-term freshness.
- Not suitable for human consumption.
- Requires dry, cool storage conditions.
- Limited to birds that prefer millet over larger seeds.
7. Wagner 18542 10 Pound Cracked Corn Wild Bird Food
View On Amazon
Cracked corn is a simple way to welcome ground-feeding birds and wildlife into your yard.
This 10-pound bag satisfies Blue Jays, cardinals, doves, and juncos, along with small animals like rabbits and chipmunks.
Sprinkle it on the ground or blend it with other seeds to create variety.
Many bird lovers feed it separately to distract squirrels from their regular feeders.
The bag is sturdy and easy to open, though you’ll need a container to keep it fresh since it doesn’t reseal.
The price may feel a bit steep, but the joy of watching ducks, geese, and pigeons indulge in a corn feast makes it worthwhile.
For best results, store in a cool, dry spot.
Best For: People looking to attract ground-feeding birds and small backyard wildlife like squirrels, rabbits, and chipmunks.
- Attracts a variety of birds and small animals.
- Can be fed alone or blended with other seeds.
- Easy-to-open sturdy bag.
- Bag does not reseal, requiring separate storage.
- Some birds may need softened grains to eat.
- Considered expensive for the quantity by some customers.
8. Lyric No Waste Wild Bird Seed Peanut Pieces
View On Amazon
Lyric No Waste Wild Bird Seed Peanut Pieces offer a perfect blend of nutrition and convenience.
These shelled peanut pieces are completely edible, meaning less mess under your feeder and zero waste.
Packed with protein and fat, they’re a favorite among woodpeckers, chickadees, blue jays, and nuthatches, providing the energy birds need year-round.
Pair them with tube, wire mesh, hopper, or open-tray feeders to guarantee easy access.
Birds tend to flock to these over traditional seeds, but be cautious after rainy weather—peanuts can mold quickly.
With their high-quality, no-filler design, this seed mix isn’t just practical but also a crowd-pleaser at every feeder, offering a perfect blend of nutrition and convenience.
Best For: Wild bird enthusiasts looking for a high-protein, mess-free bird food that attracts a variety of songbirds year-round.
- 100% edible, no-waste formula minimizes cleanup.
- High-protein and high-fat content provide essential nutrition for wild birds.
- Works with a variety of feeder types for easy feeding.
- Peanuts are prone to mold after rain if not monitored.
- Not all feeders are compatible with peanut pieces.
- Requires a feeder that protects food from weather.
9. Morning Song Wild Bird Food Dove Quail Pigeon Mix
View On Amazon
Ground-feeding birds will flock to your yard with Morning Song Dove Quail Pigeon Mix, a specialty blend designed specifically for doves, quail, sparrows, and juncos. This 7-pound bag ($16.15) contains a nutritious combination of red milo, white millet, and black oil sunflower seeds that these birds find irresistible.
You can scatter it directly on the ground or use table feeders for convenient feeding. Customers report attracting up to 20 doves at once with this American-made mix.
For best results, sprinkle small amounts that birds can consume within a day, and regularly clean your feeding area to prevent mold. While not the most nutritionally complete option, it’s an effective way to bring ground-feeding birds to your outdoor space without requiring special feeders.
Best For: Ground-feeding bird enthusiasts who want to attract doves, quail, sparrows, and juncos to their outdoor spaces.
- Not the most nutritionally complete option for wild birds.
- Requires regular cleaning of feeder areas to prevent mold or pests.
- Higher price compared to generic bird seed mixes.
- Attracts a wide variety of ground-feeding birds and small animals.
- Easy to use with table feeders or by sprinkling directly on the ground.
- Made in the USA with high-quality, oil-rich black oil sunflower seeds.
10. Kaytee Wild Bird Food Mealworms 176 oz
View On Amazon
Tenth on our list, Kaytee Wild Bird Food Mealworms offers a protein-packed feast that’s hard for birds to resist.
This 17.6-ounce package provides a convenient alternative to live mealworms while delivering the same nutritional benefits.
You’ll attract species that typically ignore seed feeders, including bluebirds, robins, wrens, chickadees, and woodpeckers.
These oven-dried treats are especially valuable during nesting season when parent birds seek protein-rich food for their young.
For best results, offer mealworms alone in a dedicated feeder or mix them with your regular seed blend.
The resealable packaging keeps the product fresh between uses.
At $15.99 ($0.91 per ounce), these mealworms represent good value considering their effectiveness at attracting colorful visitors to your yard throughout the year.
Best For: Bird enthusiasts looking to attract insect-eating species like bluebirds, robins, and woodpeckers while providing a high-protein food source.
- Higher price point compared to traditional seed blends.
- Some bags may contain adult beetles, which might not appeal to all users.
- Requires proper storage to prevent spoilage.
- Attracts a variety of colorful, insect-eating bird species.
- High-protein, oven-dried mealworms support nesting and breeding.
- Convenient resealable packaging keeps mealworms fresh.
Bird Seed Types
You’ll find several seed varieties that attract different bird species to your yard, with options ranging from black oil sunflower seeds for cardinals to nyjer seeds for finches.
Each seed type offers specific nutritional benefits with varying fat and protein contents, helping you select the right mix for your local bird population, based on the nutritional benefits.
Black Oil Sunflower Seed and Its Attractions
In the realm of bird feeding, black oil sunflower seeds stand as the undisputed champion among bird seed types.
They’ve earned this status through several key advantages:
- Shell thinness benefit: Their thin shells make them easier for small birds to crack open
- Energy richness: 40% fat content provides essential calories, especially in winter months
- Easy consumption: Most backyard birds can handle these seeds without difficulty
- Feeder compatibility: Works in tube, platform, or hopper feeders
- Attracting specific birds: Cardinals, chickadees, finches, and woodpeckers all readily visit for these seeds
You’ll find black oil sunflower seeds offer the best value for attracting the widest variety of birds to your yard, making them a great choice for backyard birds and providing essential calories.
Striped Sunflower as a Less Expensive Alternative
While black oil sunflower seeds dominate many feeders, striped sunflower seeds offer a budget-friendly alternative that won’t break the bank.
These larger seeds typically cost 15-25% less than their black oil counterparts while still attracting plenty of visitors to your yard.
- Thicker shells deter smaller birds, making them perfect for targeting larger species like cardinals and blue jays
- Tougher exterior serves as a natural squirrel deterrent compared to easier-to-crack varieties
- Slower consumption rate means your supply lasts longer, improving cost-benefit ratio
- Less waste under feeders as fewer birds can crack them open
For best results, use hopper or platform feeders that accommodate larger birds. These seeds attract cardinals and grosbeaks, which are larger birds.
Nyjer Seed and Its Finch Preferences
While striped sunflower seeds offer budget-friendly feeding options, nyjer seeds are the undisputed champions in the finch world.
These tiny black seeds have become the go-to choice for attracting colorful goldfinches to your yard.
Nyjer seeds deliver impressive nutritional value with 36% fat and 21% protein, making them perfect for high-energy birds like finches.
Their small size perfectly matches the specialized beaks of goldfinches and other small birds.
| Feature | Benefit | Bird Appeal |
|---|---|---|
| High fat (36%) | Energy boost | Goldfinches |
| Small size | Matches finch beaks | Purple finches |
| Special feeders | Controls waste | Chickadees |
| Nyjer freshness | Prevents spoilage | Year-round visitors |
You’ll need specialized tube feeders with tiny openings to prevent waste.
Always check for freshness—stale nyjer won’t attract birds.
Safflower Seed and Its Cardinal Attractions
Attracting cardinals to your feeder becomes effortless with safflower seeds. These white, teardrop-shaped seeds pack 38% fat and 16% protein that cardinals can’t resist. Their hard shells naturally provide squirrel deterrence while catering to cardinal preferences.
- Perfect seed size for cardinals, grosbeaks, and chickadees
- Shell hardness discourages most squirrels and blackbirds
- Ideal for platform feeders where cardinals feel most comfortable
- Lower bird seed prices compared to specialty mixes
You’ll notice more red visitors in your yard when you offer safflower seeds, with the added benefit of keeping those pesky squirrels at bay, making it an ideal choice for a cardinal-friendly feeder.
Bird Seed Prices
You’ll find bird seed prices vary widely between online retailers like Amazon ($2.87/lb) and in-store options like Fleet Farm ($0.89/lb).
Buying in bulk from places like Tractor Supply can save you money, while factors like seed production costs, freight, and market trends affect the final price you’ll pay, considering the impact of bulk purchasing.
Online Prices and Their Variations
Four major retailers offer vastly different bird seed prices online, making comparison shopping essential for budget-conscious bird enthusiasts.
When shopping for bird food online, you’ll encounter these price variations:
- Amazon charges premium rates at approximately $2.87 per pound
- Chewy costs fall in the middle range at $2.23 per pound for 20-pound bags
- Specialty stores often have competitive pricing around $0.99 per pound
- Fleet Farm offers some of the best deals at just $0.89 per pound
Price volatility in birdseed price trends means checking multiple retailers before purchasing. You’ll save substantially by watching for seasonal sales and using online retailers sell birdseed to find the best birdseed cost comparison tools, which can help track fluctuations.
In-store Prices and Their Comparisons
Shopping locally often yields better bird seed prices than online marketplaces. Your wallet will thank you for comparing in-store options before clicking "buy now."
Purchasing quality local birdseed can be a cost-effective choice.
| Store | Seed Type | Price/lb | Regional Variance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Bird Store | Black Oil Sunflower | $0.99 | Low |
| Walmart | Mixed Blend | $1.28 | Medium |
| Fleet Farm | Premium Mix | $1.34 | Medium |
| Pet Specialty | Nyjer/Thistle | $2.23 | High |
Brand price differences can be substantial—the same Wagner’s blend might cost 40% more online than in stores. Regional price swings affect availability too, with Midwest stores typically offering better deals than coastal retailers.
When comparing bird seed cost, don’t overlook seasonal sales at Walmart vs Fleet Farm. This can help you make a more informed decision and find the best value for your money.
Buying in Bulk for Cheaper Options
After comparing store prices, you’ll find buying bird seed in bulk offers significant savings.
Places like Tractor Supply and CountryMax provide bulk discounts that can lower your per-pound costs substantially.
You’ll save money and also reduce trips to the store with a steady supply on hand.
Just remember to invest in proper storage solutions to maintain seed freshness and implement pest prevention measures to protect your investment, ensuring you have a steady supply.
Factors Affecting Bird Seed Prices
Beyond buying in bulk, understanding what drives bird seed prices helps you budget better.
Several market forces are at work in 2025:
Seed production costs have risen due to global agricultural challenges,
Freight costs and fuel prices continue climbing, affecting distribution,
Labor costs throughout the supply chain have increased substantially,
Drought conditions in key growing regions have reduced crop yields,
Packaging material prices have jumped 15-20%.
Despite these pressures, demand remains strong as more people discover the joy of bird feeding.
The Nyjer seed sterilization process also contributes to higher costs.
When comparing birdseed costs across retailers, remember these factors explain why your favorite blend might cost more than last year, due to the overall impact on the supply chain and global market.
Choosing Quality Bird Seeds
You’ll need to check expiration dates and buy from trusted retailers to guarantee your backyard birds get fresh, nutritious seeds.
Quality bird seeds have a nutty aroma, come in sturdy packaging from reputable brands, and contain minimal debris or fillers that can harm bird health.
Importance of Expiration Dates and Freshness
While comparing prices matters, seed freshness is equally important for bird health.
Always check expiration dates on packages—fresh birdseed smells nutty, not musty.
Freshness affects your backyard birds in several ways:
- Prevents nutritional degradation that leaves birds undernourished
- Minimizes mold risks that can make birds sick
- Reduces pest attraction that drives birds away
Store seeds in airtight containers in cool, dry places to maintain quality and maximize feeding value.
Recognizing Quality Brands and Their Packaging
Once your bird seed is fresh, you’ll need to identify quality brands with proper packaging to maintain that freshness.
Look for these key indicators of premium bird seed products:
- Moisture-resistant packaging with clear resealing mechanisms that prevent air and pests from entering
- Transparent ingredient lists that specify exact seed types and percentages
- Sturdy construction that doesn’t tear easily during transport or storage
Trusted brands like Wagner and Lyric consistently deliver superior packaging that preserves seed freshness longer.
Offering a mix of seeds, such as black oil sunflower, can attract a diverse range of birds.
Purchasing From Reputable Retailers for High-quality Seeds
After identifying quality brands by their packaging, selecting where you purchase matters just as much.
Reputable retailers maintain proper storage practices, ensuring your birdseed stays fresh longer. Check customer reviews of birdseed retailers to verify their reputation for quality bird seeds and pricing transparency.
Purchasing from online birdseed suppliers can also be a convenient option. Local wild bird specialty shops often provide better storage than big-box stores.
You’ll typically pay more, but the improved seed quality attracts more birds to your feeders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best inexpensive bird seed?
Picture a feeder buzzing with activity without emptying your wallet.
You’ll get the most bang for your buck with black oil sunflower seeds or white millet.
They’re nutritious, widely available, and attract many common birds.
What is the cheapest way to feed the birds?
To save money, you’ll get the best value buying millet or black oil sunflower seeds in bulk from farm supply stores.
Like Tractor Supply or Fleet Farm, where prices can drop to $89/lb.
Why is bird seed suddenly so expensive?
Rising production costs, higher fuel prices, recent droughts, and increased labor expenses have driven up bird seed prices.
You’ll also notice packaging costs and market demand contributing to the squeeze on your bird-feeding budget, with higher fuel prices being a significant factor.
What is the best birdseed to attract the most birds?
Like a magnet for feathered friends, black oil sunflower seeds attract the most diverse birds.
You’ll get cardinals, chickadees, and finches with this high-fat, high-protein option that’s easy for them to crack open.
How do you store bird seed long-term?
Store bird seed in airtight containers to prevent moisture and pests.
Keep it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
You’ll maintain freshness and prevent mold by regularly checking and rotating your supply.
What bird seeds deter unwanted pests effectively?
Safflower seeds effectively deter squirrels and blackbirds while still attracting cardinals and chickadees.
You’ll also find that nyjer seeds work well since squirrels don’t prefer them.
Both options keep your feeders pest-free.
Can bird seed attract specific bird species?
Different delicious seeds definitely draw distinct species to your yard. You’ll attract cardinals with sunflower seeds, goldfinches prefer nyjer seeds, while woodpeckers want peanuts. Each bird has its favorite food.
Are organic bird seeds worth the cost?
Organic bird seeds can be worth your money if you’re concerned about pesticides.
You’ll pay more, but you’ll provide birds with chemical-free nutrition.
Consider mixing organic and conventional seeds to balance cost and benefits.
How do you prevent mold in bird seed?
Keep bird seed in airtight containers to prevent moisture.
Don’t overfill feeders.
Clean them regularly with a mild bleach solution.
Make certain seeds are stored in cool, dry places away from humidity.
How to attract specific bird species?
Like a magnet to metal, specific bird species are attracted to their favorite foods.
Use black oil sunflower seeds for cardinals, nyjer for goldfinches, safflower for grosbeaks, and millet for ground-feeding sparrows.
Conclusion
Selecting the right bird seed types and prices makes all the difference in your backyard birding adventure.
Whether you choose black oil sunflower seeds for cardinals, Nyjer for finches, or safflower to deter squirrels, your feathered visitors will appreciate fresh, quality options.
Consider buying in bulk to save money while maintaining quality.
With the knowledge you’ve gained about bird seed types and prices, you’re now equipped to create a feeding station that’ll bring joy year-round, and provide a consistent supply of quality options.
