What Is The Best Seed For A Window Bird Feeder?

If you’re looking to attract a variety of beautiful birds to your window bird feeder, selecting the right seed is crucial. Black-oil sunflower seeds reign supreme in the world of bird feeding. Birds simply love them for various reasons, and one of the key factors is the softer shell compared to black striped sunflower seeds.

Sunflower kernels are another excellent choice for your window bird feeder as they are not only popular among many bird species but also attract birds that may have difficulty managing seeds with shells. By offering sunflower kernels, you can cater to a broader range of birds and create a bustling feeding spot.

It’s essential to consider the wildlife in your area when selecting bird seeds for your window feeder. While birds enjoy sunflower seeds, squirrels are also big fans of these nutritious treats. To prevent pesky squirrels from raiding your bird feeder, investing in a squirrel-proof feeder is a wise decision to ensure that the birds get their fair share.

Aside from sunflower seeds, nyjer (thistle) seeds are another popular choice for attracting finches and other small birds to your window feeder. These tiny black seeds are packed with energy and are a favorite among many bird species, making them a great addition to your bird feeding repertoire.

If you’re aiming to entice a wider range of bird species to your window feeder, consider adding a mix of seeds such as millet, cracked corn, and peanuts. Each type of seed appeals to different birds, providing a diverse and nutritious buffet that will attract a colorful array of feathered visitors to your feeding station.

When filling your window bird feeder with seeds, it’s essential to keep the feeder clean and free of mold or bacteria that could harm the birds. Regularly emptying and cleaning the feeder will help maintain a healthy feeding environment and ensure that the birds keep coming back for more.

One key aspect to remember when selecting seeds for your window bird feeder is to opt for high-quality seeds that are fresh and free of contaminants. Cheap seeds may contain filler ingredients that birds will discard, leading to wasted seed and potential contamination of your feeder.

Another factor to consider is the size of the seeds in relation to the birds you wish to attract. Smaller birds may struggle with large seeds, so offering a variety of seed sizes can accommodate different species and ensure that all birds can easily feed from your window feeder.

Observing the behavior of birds at your feeder can provide valuable insights into their seed preferences. You may notice certain birds showing a preference for specific types of seeds, allowing you to tailor your seed selection to cater to the unique tastes of the feathered visitors frequenting your window feeder.

In conclusion, the best seed for your window bird feeder ultimately depends on the species of birds you wish to attract and the wildlife in your area. By offering a mix of high-quality seeds such as black-oil sunflower seeds, sunflower kernels, nyjer seeds, and a variety of other seeds, you can create a diverse and inviting feeding station that will attract a plethora of beautiful birds to your window feeder.

Photo of author

Don Atkins

Don Atkins is a proud Canadian and experienced biology teacher living in Toronto. With a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Saskatchewan under his belt, Don has 10 years of teaching experience and is passionate about sharing his knowledge with others. He also volunteers at the Northeastern Avian Rescue, using his expertise to help birds in need. Don's enthusiasm for ornithology is undeniable, and he loves nothing more than to share it with those around him.