Choosing the right type of bird food is the key to attracting more feathered visitors to your feeder. Different birds have different tastes, so offering a variety of food types can help you see more species through your bird feeder camera!
1. Sunflower Seeds — The Universal Favorite
Best for: Cardinals, Finches, Chickadees, Sparrows, and Nuthatches. Black oil sunflower seeds are the top choice for most wild birds. They are rich in oil and easy to crack open, providing plenty of energy.
2. Millet
Best for: Sparrows, Doves, Juncos, and Finches. White proso millet is a favorite among ground-feeding birds. Scatter some on a tray feeder or the ground near bushes for best results.
3. Peanuts
Best for: Blue Jays, Woodpeckers, Titmice, and Nuthatches. Peanuts (unsalted and unroasted) are packed with protein and fat — perfect for energetic birds. Offer them shelled or in the shell, but avoid salted varieties.
4. Fruits
Best for: Robins, Orioles, Bluebirds, and Mockingbirds. Fresh or dried fruits like berries, grapes, apples, and oranges can attract colorful fruit-loving species. Replace fruit often to keep it fresh and safe.
5. Mealworms
Best for: Bluebirds, Wrens, Robins, and Chickadees. These protein-rich treats are especially popular during breeding season, when birds need extra energy for feeding chicks.
6. Cracked Corn
Best for: Doves, Jays, and Blackbirds. Cracked corn is inexpensive and appeals to larger, ground-feeding birds. Use it sparingly to avoid attracting unwanted pests.
Tips for Best Results
- Offer a mix of seeds to attract different bird species.
- Keep feeders clean and dry to prevent mold.
- Avoid bread, salty snacks, or processed foods — these are unhealthy for birds.
- Provide a source of water nearby; many birds will visit for both food and a drink.