Bird seed questions answered
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The best bird seed for your feeder depends on the birds you want to attract and your budget. Black oil sunflower seeds are the most versatile choice, while nyjer seed is ideal for finches. Avoid cheap filler seeds like milo, which many birds ignore.
What seeds attract the most birds?
Black oil sunflower seeds are the undisputed champion for attracting the widest variety of backyard birds. Chickadees, titmice, cardinals, nuthatches, and even woodpeckers all eat them. Their thin shells are easy for smaller birds to crack, and the high oil content provides essential energy year-round. Nyjer seed (also called thistle seed) is a favorite for goldfinches, house finches, and redpolls, but requires a special feeder with tiny holes. White proso millet is popular with ground-feeding birds like juncos, sparrows, and doves. A mix that emphasizes these three ingredients will usually serve you better than a cheap bag full of red milo or wheat, which many birds leave uneaten.
How do I choose a bird seed mix?
Start by checking the ingredient list on the bag. A high-quality mix should list black oil sunflower, white proso millet, and possibly cracked corn among the top ingredients. Avoid mixes where the first ingredient is milo, wheat, or oats – these are often used as cheap fillers that pile up under feeders and attract pests. You don’t need an elaborate blend if you’re new to feeding. Many experts recommend starting with straight black oil sunflower in a tube or hopper feeder and then adding a separate nyjer feeder for finches. This lets you see what birds visit and adjust your offerings later. A regional blend, formulated for birds in your part of the country, can also be a smart shortcut if you want to support local species.
Should I offer different seeds in different feeders?
Yes, using separate feeders for different seeds is often more effective than mixing everything together. Birds have distinct preferences and feeding styles: finches prefer nyjer from a mesh tube, cardinals and grosbeaks like a tray or hopper with sunflower seeds, and sparrows often scavenge millet spilled on the ground. Separate feeders also reduce waste and mess. When you mix seeds, birds will toss out the ones they don’t want to reach the good stuff. A dedicated sunflower feeder, a nyjer tube, and a ground tray for millet will attract a wider variety of birds and leave less seed rotting on the ground.
How can I keep squirrels out of the bird seed?
Squirrels are clever and persistent, but several strategies can help. A good baffle placed above or below your feeder will block them from climbing down or jumping from above. Hanging feeders on a smooth pole with a baffle is one of the most reliable setups. You can also replace some sunflower seed with safflower, which most squirrels dislike but cardinals, chickadees, and titmice eat readily. Avoid using greased poles or pepper-based seed treatments if you have pets or small children, as they can cause irritation. A well-placed feeder at least ten feet from any tree or structure makes it harder for squirrels to get a running start. Finally, offering a separate tray of cheap corn or peanuts away from your main feeders can distract them instead of fighting them.
What is the best way to store bird seed?
Bird seed goes rancid over time and attracts pantry moths, weevils, and rodents if not stored properly. Transfer your seed from paper bags into a clean, dry, metal or thick plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. A galvanized trash can works well – it keeps moisture out and pests from chewing through. Store the container in a cool, dark place like a garage or basement. Avoid leaving seed in the sun or next to a heater, as heat accelerates spoilage. Buy only as much as you can use within a month or two, especially in humid summer weather. If you see moths or webbing in the seed, discard it and clean your container thoroughly before refilling.
Frequently asked questions
Can I feed birds bread instead of seed?
Bread offers little nutritional value for birds and can fill them up without providing the fats and proteins they need, especially in winter. Stale bread may also mold quickly. Stick to seeds, nuts, suet, and mealworms for healthier options.
What does ‘no mess’ bird seed mean?
‘No mess’ bird seed is usually sunflower hearts or chips – shelled seeds that produce no hulls for birds to drop. It costs more per pound but eliminates the pile of shells under your feeder and attracts many of the same birds.
How often should I clean my bird feeder?
Clean your feeder every two weeks with warm soapy water and a scrub brush, then rinse thoroughly. In wet weather or high temperatures, clean weekly to prevent mold and bacteria that can spread disease among birds.
Will bird seed grow weeds under the feeder?
Yes, uneaten seeds like millet and milo can sprout into unwanted grass and weeds. Switch to hulled sunflower seeds or no-mess blends to minimize germination. Regularly raking the area or placing a tray under the feeder can also help.
Is it cheaper to buy bird seed in bulk?
Buying larger bags often costs less per pound, but only if you can store it properly and use it before it goes stale. A 15‑20 pound bag that lasts a month is a good value. For small households, a 5-pound bag may be more practical to avoid waste.
What seeds are best for winter feeding?
Black oil sunflower seeds are excellent in winter because of their high fat content. Nyjer and peanuts also provide energy. Suet cakes are another favorite in cold months. Avoid blends with a lot of cracked corn, which can freeze or become less appealing.