Thursday, January 8, 2009

What Type Of Birdseed Should You Choose

Now is the perfect time to be feeding the birds in your yard. Not only will you see what types of birds stick around for winter, but you may even catch a glimpse of a migrating bird as well. Choosing the right kind of seed can make all the difference.

Fred was out in the yard the other day feeding the birds after the big snow storm when the neighbor walked by with their dog. After shooting the breeze for a while the neighbor asked Fred a question about birdseed. What type do you use?

We all know that birdseed is readily available at the grocery store and costs a lot less than birdseed at a pet store or through a specialty catalog....BUT....Is it the same thing?

No, it is not! The grocery store brand, for less money, will not be as appealing to the birds. It is most always mixed with a lot of "filler" seeds. These "filler" seeds take up room in the bag and the birds find these kind of seeds undesirable. You know exactly what I mean. This is the birdseed you see on the ground after the birds have picked through it to find what they really want. The good birdseed is going to cost you a little more, but your birds will truly love you for it! And premium birdseed will actually give you more edible seed per pound than the other inexpensive seed mixes. Remember, you get what you pay for.

There are many kinds of birdseed to choose from, but a few basic types can satisfy the most finicky birds. Buying several varieties of seed in bulk and mixing them yourself can actually save you money, too.

Stay tuned please. Over the next few days Fred will let you know what kinds of birdseed attract what types of birds and why.

4 comments:

Carol- Beads and Birds said...

Thanks for all the good information you post. We feed the birds quality food. Its worth the enjoyment we get from watching them. We feed the squirrels peanut butter sandwiches with their food and the birds love it too! Cardinals grab it quick!

Unknown said...

That makes absolute sense, but something I totally never would have thorugh of - filler seed indeed! Looking forward to reading which seeds are best!

365 Letters said...

We used to feed the birds when we lived in the city, but now we live in the country and have so many cats. I'm afraid it would be murderous to feed the birds in our yard, now. Plus, they seem to find lots of seeds and insects out in the wild. We do see quite a few birds at the water bowl, so we keep one filled up just for them.

Beth said...

As it so happens I received a birdfeeder and seed for Christmas. We are putting it up this weekend, weather providing. We actually get our seed at Lowe's. I don't even think our grocer sells birdseed, I'l have to look since I'm curious now!