Bird Seed

Choose seed based on the bird species you want to attract (e.g., black oil sunflower and nyjer for finches and chickadees), the type of feeder you use, and whether you need weather-resistant or squirrel-resistant mixes

Black oil sunflower attracts a wide range of songbirds; nyjer (thistle) is preferred by finches; millet and cracked corn attract ground-feeding birds like sparrows and doves; safflower is less attractive to squirrels and some nuisance birds

Bag sizes and formulations vary, but bird seed in garden & patio ranges typically includes budget options under $50 and premium blends at higher prices; buying in larger quantities usually lowers cost per pound

Keep seed in a cool, dry place in airtight, rodent-proof containers, use older seed first, and avoid storing seed directly on concrete which can wick moisture and promote spoilage

Refill feeders before seed runs out but avoid overfilling; clean feeders every 1–2 weeks (more often in wet weather), discard moldy or clumped seed, and allow feeders to dry thoroughly before refilling

Use seeds less attractive to squirrels (like safflower), switch to squirrel-resistant feeder designs, add baffles or weight-activated mechanisms, or place feeders farther from launch points like trees or roofs

Blends appeal to a variety of species and are convenient, but single-seed options (e.g., black oil sunflower or nyjer) can attract specific birds more effectively and reduce waste from birds that reject certain ingredients