When deciding what to put in bird feeder stations, the best options include black oil sunflower seeds, nyjer (thistle) seeds, white proso millet, cracked corn, and suet cakes—each attracting different species based on their dietary needs and feeding behaviors. Knowing what to put in bird feeder setups ensures you support local bird populations year-round with nutritious, safe, and appealing food choices that align with both biological requirements and seasonal availability.
Understanding Bird Feeding Basics
Bird feeders are more than decorative backyard fixtures—they serve as supplemental nutrition sources, especially during winter months when natural food supplies dwindle. However, not all foods are suitable for every bird species. The key to effective bird feeding lies in understanding avian diets, regional preferences, and the nutritional value of common feeder offerings. By selecting appropriate items to put in bird feeders, enthusiasts can attract a diverse range of birds while promoting health and minimizing risks like disease transmission or pest attraction.
Top Foods to Put in Bird Feeders
Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
Often considered the gold standard in bird feeding, black oil sunflower seeds have thin shells that most small birds can easily crack open. They’re rich in fat and protein, making them ideal energy sources during cold weather. These seeds attract cardinals, chickadees, nuthatches, finches, jays, and woodpeckers.
To maximize effectiveness, use tube or hopper feeders designed for sunflower seeds. Avoid mixing them with fillers like red milo, which many birds ignore and often end up scattered beneath feeders.
Nyjer (Thistle) Seed
Nyjer seed is a favorite among finches, including goldfinches, pine siskins, and redpolls. Despite its name, it’s not related to the thistle weed but is a tiny, oil-rich seed imported from Africa. Due to its size, it requires specialized mesh or sock-style feeders to prevent spillage.
This seed loses nutritional value over time, so replace it every 2–3 weeks, especially in humid conditions. Store unused nyjer in a cool, dry place to preserve freshness.
White Proso Millet
Small, round, and pale, white proso millet appeals to ground-feeding birds such as sparrows, juncos, doves, and towhees. It works well in platform feeders or scattered directly on the ground. However, because it attracts rodents and non-target species like house sparrows, monitor quantities and clean up fallen seed regularly.
Avoid mixes containing red milo, wheat, or oats—birds typically avoid these, leading to waste and potential mold development.
Cracked Corn
Cracked corn is inexpensive and attracts larger birds like jays, blackbirds, grackles, and wild turkeys. It can be offered on platform feeders or on the ground. However, due to its high carbohydrate content and low protein, it should be used sparingly and never as a primary food source.
Be cautious: wet cracked corn spoils quickly and can grow aflatoxins, which are harmful to birds. Only offer small amounts at a time, particularly in warm or damp climates.
Suet Cakes
Suet—a hard fat rendered from beef—is an excellent high-energy food, especially in winter. Commercial suet cakes often include seeds, peanuts, fruits, or insects to broaden appeal. Woodpeckers, nuthatches, wrens, and starlings are frequent visitors to suet feeders.
In warmer months, consider using “no-melt” suet varieties to prevent spoilage. Place suet cages in shaded areas to extend usability. Avoid offering plain raw suet in summer, as it can melt and coat birds’ feathers, impairing insulation and flight.
Seasonal Considerations for What to Put in Bird Feeders
Bird feeding isn’t a one-size-fits-all practice; seasonal shifts influence what to put in bird feeder stations throughout the year.
Winter Feeding Strategies
Cold months increase birds’ caloric demands. High-fat foods like suet and sunflower seeds become critical. Maintain consistent feeding schedules, as birds come to rely on reliable sources when snow covers natural forage.
Prevent seed from freezing by using weather-protected feeders or adding seed heaters. Offer unfrozen water via heated birdbaths to enhance your yard’s attractiveness.
Spring and Summer Adjustments
During breeding season, birds seek protein-rich foods for themselves and their young. While seeds remain useful, consider supplementing with mealworms (live or dried), which mimic insect prey. Robins, bluebirds, and wrens readily consume them.
Reduce or eliminate fermented-prone foods like bread or fruit scraps, which can promote bacterial growth. Keep feeders clean to prevent disease outbreaks such as salmonellosis.
Fall Migration Support
Migratory species pass through regions needing fuel for long flights. Nyjer and sunflower seeds help sustain warblers, tanagers, and grosbeaks. Position feeders near shrubs or trees to give birds cover from predators during rest stops.
Regional Differences in Feeder Preferences
What to put in bird feeder systems varies geographically. For example:
- In the Northeast, chickadees and nuthatches dominate feeders; black oil sunflower and suet work best.
- In the Southwest, house finches and Gambel’s quail prefer millet and cracked corn.
- The Pacific Northwest sees varied thrushes and spotted towhees favoring platform feeders with mixed seeds.
- In Florida, mourning doves and northern cardinals respond well to safflower seeds, which resist squirrel and grackle consumption.
Consult regional field guides or apps like eBird to identify local species and tailor offerings accordingly.
Common Mistakes When Choosing What to Put in Bird Feeders
Even well-intentioned feeders make errors that reduce effectiveness or harm birds.
Using Bread or Scratch Grains
Bread offers little nutritional value and swells in birds’ stomachs, creating false satiety. Scratch grains meant for chickens contain filler ingredients birds reject. Stick to purpose-formulated birdseed blends without unnecessary additives.
Ignoring Feeder Hygiene
Dirty feeders spread diseases like avian conjunctivitis and trichomoniasis. Clean feeders every two weeks with a 10% bleach solution, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely before refilling.
Overfilling Feeders
Excess seed absorbs moisture and molds. Only refill feeders when nearly empty, and choose sizes appropriate for local bird traffic.
Attracting Unwanted Wildlife
Peanuts in shell and corn may lure raccoons, squirrels, or even bears in rural areas. Use squirrel-proof feeders, baffles, or elevated mounting poles to minimize access.
| Food Type | Best For | Feeder Type | Seasonal Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Oil Sunflower Seeds | Cardinals, Chickadees, Nuthatches | Tube, Hopper | Year-Round |
| Nyjer (Thistle) Seed | Goldfinches, Siskins | Mesh, Sock | Fall/Winter |
| White Proso Millet | Sparrows, Juncos, Doves | Platform, Ground | Winter |
| Cracked Corn | Jays, Blackbirds, Turkeys | Platform, Ground | Limited Winter Use |
| Suet Cakes | Woodpeckers, Nuthatches, Wrens | Cage, Basket | Winter (No-Melt in Summer) |
Enhancing Your Backyard Habitat Beyond Food
While knowing what to put in bird feeders is essential, creating a holistic habitat improves success. Incorporate native plants that produce berries, nuts, or attract insects. Provide fresh water in a birdbath with shallow depth (1–2 inches). Add shelter such as evergreen trees or nesting boxes to encourage residency.
Place feeders within 10 feet of cover to allow quick escape from predators but not so close that cats can ambush. Space multiple feeders apart to reduce aggression and disease transmission.
FAQs About What to Put in Bird Feeders
Can I feed birds peanuts?
Yes, unsalted, roasted, or raw shelled peanuts are popular with jays, titmice, and woodpeckers. Offer them in secure feeders to prevent choking hazards or mold exposure. Avoid salted or honey-roasted varieties.
Is cracked corn good for birds?
In moderation, yes—especially for larger birds. But it spoils easily and lacks balanced nutrition. Use sparingly and only in dry conditions.
Should I stop feeding birds in summer?
No, but adjust offerings. Focus on clean seed, fresh water, and occasional mealworms. Avoid suet unless using no-melt versions.
Why aren’t birds coming to my feeder?
New feeders may take weeks for birds to discover. Ensure food freshness, location safety, and absence of predators. Try placing feeders near familiar perching spots.
How often should I clean my feeder?
Every 1–2 weeks, more frequently in wet or hot weather. Regular cleaning prevents deadly diseases and maintains hygiene.
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