Do you know that birds can be just as picky as humans when it comes to what they eat? If there’s one thing we’ve found over the years, it’s that birds have a particular preference when it comes to birdseed. 

If you’re into bird feeding, you’re probably wondering which bird seed would attract birds most. So in this article, let’s look at exactly what you should consider when looking for the perfect mix.

3 things to check for high-quality birdseed

When looking for the perfect birdseed, make sure to consider the following:

• The mix should have been tested and proven to attract birds as advertised

Different bird seed mixes are available on the market at different price points. While it may seem better to go for the relatively inexpensive brands, you also need to consider whether this type of bird feed mix will attract the birds you want.

Cheaper bird seed bags are often just a mixture of milo, wheat, sorghum, and other common grains. While these seeds may get birds to come your way, don’t expect that your mix will attract colorful ones. Worse, you’ll probably just end up with a mess of leftover birdseed on the ground as birds just pick ‘the good stuff’. 

• The mix should contain fresh seed

Just as we would prefer eating fresh food over stale ones, birds can also be selective when it comes to the quality of birdseed you’re offering. Sure, birdseed mixes are not as fresh as the seeds that birds can find on their own outdoors, but you can choose a mix that is packaged in a way that seals in freshness. 

Birdseed bags that come with a triple-barrier design are the best choice for this, as the design not only helps lock in freshness but also keeps insects from spoiling the mix. It also prevents any leakage from happening. 

• The seeds should be clean

Some bird seed mixes come with lots of chaff, dirt, and debris, so make sure that you buy a ‘clean’ mix. Look for brands that offer the cleanest bird seed possible. Some bird seed mixes are 99% clean, a rate that’s just below human grade.

The best types of birdseed

Different types of birds prefer different types of birdseed. Here are just a few seeds that birds actually love.

• Black Oil Sunflower - This type of seed attracts most birds, but it is especially attractive to cardinals
• Hulled/Chipped Sunflower - The shelled version of Black Oil Sunflower is the perfect seed for smaller birds such as chickadees and goldfinches
• Striped Sunflower - The best choice for red-bellied woodpeckers and bluejays
• Safflower - A favorite of cardinals but not of starlings, grackles, and sparrows. 
• Nyjer - Another tasty treat for goldfinches and chickadees
• Peanuts - The best gift for nuthatches, woodpeckers, chickadees, and titmice
• Millet & Corn - Great for ground feeders such as doves

We hope that you find this article helpful in choosing the right mix for your feathered friends! As you choose the right brand, you’ll realize that quality birdseed is usually on the pricier side. However, what you’ll get in exchange—less waste, better birds, better bird-feeding experience—may well be worth the extra cost.

Visit your local feed center or stop by Martin's Feed Mill to find the best birdseed and feeders that will work for the types of birds you want to see in your yard. Soon, you will discover the joys of feeding birds the food they want to eat!

Don’t miss our December special! Stop in to Martin’s Feed Mill and receive Free suet with the purchase of any bird seed mix. Valid only December 13th-18th, 2021 at Martin’s Feed Mill.