When it comes to feeding wild birds, having the right bird seed mix is crucial for attracting a variety of species to your yard or garden. However, not all seeds and grains are created equal when it comes to birdseed. There are several ingredients that should be avoided in wild bird seed mixes due to potential harm to birds or low nutritional value.
Toxic or potentially harmful seeds
Some seeds and grain can actually be toxic or otherwise harmful to birds if consumed regularly. Here are some ingredients to avoid adding to your birdseed mix:
- Unpopped popcorn – Can swell in birds’ throats/crops and cause choking or impact their digestive system
- Dried beans – Raw beans contain lectin which is toxic to birds
- Chocolate – Chocolate contains toxic theobromine and caffeine
- Rice – Can swell in birds’ throats/crops and lead to choking or digestive issues
- Dry peas and lentils – Contain lectins toxic to birds until cooked
- Moldy/spoiled seeds and grains
- Salted seeds or those with seasoning – Excess salt is unhealthy for birds
Any seeds or grains that appear moldy or spoiled should not be used, as they can make birds sick. It’s also important to avoid salted seeds or those with other flavorings added.
Low nutritional value
Some seeds and grains commonly added to birdseed lack sufficient nutritional value for wild birds. Avoid using too much of these filler ingredients:
- Wheat – Low fat and protein
- Milo – Low in protein
- Oats – Lower fat and protein than other grains
- Cracked corn – Low overall nutritional value
- White millet – Low in fat and protein
While small amounts of these are ok, they should not make up the bulk of the birdseed mix as they don’t provide the energy and nutrients birds need. Opt for higher quality, more nutritious seeds instead.
Non-seed ingredients to exclude
In addition to certain seeds and grains, there are a few other ingredients that should not be added to wild bird seed mixes:
- Dried fruit – Can ferment and become toxic to birds
- Honey – Risk of transmitting diseases between birds
- Cow’s milk – Can spoil and grow mold or bacteria harmful to birds
The best ingredients for wild bird seed
When putting together your own DIY birdseed mix, make sure to use a variety of the following nutritious seeds:
- Black oil sunflower seeds – High in fat and protein
- Nyjer seed – Rich in calories and oils
- Safflower seeds – Higher fat content than most seeds
- Peanuts – Nutritious nuts high in fat
- Cracked nuts – Such as almonds, pecans, walnuts etc.
- White proso millet – More protein and fat than other millets
- Flax seed – Rich in healthy omega-3s
And consider small amounts of these:
- Cracked corn
- Whole corn
- Milo
- Oats
- Wheat
In the right proportions, an assortment of these quality seeds and grains will provide essential proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to attract chickadees, nuthatches, grosbeaks, finches, juncos, and other wild birds.
Benefits of high quality birdseed
Offering a premium birdseed mix without fillers or harmful ingredients has a number of benefits:
- Attracts a greater variety of bird species
- Provides better nutrition and energy for birds
- Healthier birds with stronger immune systems
- Supports birds throughout winter when food is scarce
- Promotes successful nesting and rearing of young in spring
- Avoids inadvertently poisoning birds
Making your own custom seed mix allows you to control the quality and create an optimal blend for local species. Follow the guidelines above on what not to add, and experiment with different options to bring in your favorite birds!
Sample birdseed mix recipes
Here are a couple examples of balanced birdseed mixes you can make at home:
Everyday basic mix
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Black oil sunflower seed | 40% |
| White proso millet | 20% |
| Nyjer seed | 15% |
| Cracked corn | 10% |
| Peanuts | 5% |
| Safflower seed | 5% |
| Oats | 5% |
Premium mix for maximum nutrition
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Black oil sunflower seed | 25% |
| Nyjer seed | 15% |
| Peanuts | 12% |
| Safflower seed | 10% |
| White proso millet | 10% |
| Cracked nuts | 9% |
| Flax seed | 5% |
| Whole corn | 5% |
| Oats | 4% |
| Wheat | 3% |
| Milo | 2% |
Tailor these to your own backyard needs and the types of birds you want to attract. Always aim for a variety of quality seeds and grains while avoiding cheap fillers and harmful ingredients.
Proper birdseed storage
To keep birdseed fresh for longer and avoid spoilage or contamination, follow these storage tips:
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Use an airtight container or bin
- Place birdseed in freezer for 48 hours first to kill any insect eggs
- Allow to reach room temperature before filling feeders
- Only leave in feeders enough seed for a day or two
- Scoop out old seed from feeders regularly
- Discard any visibly moldy or spoiled seed
Proper storage will maintain seed quality and prevent contamination or spoiling. Only put out small batches in feeders at a time, and clean them regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bread or crackers in my birdseed mix?
No, bread and crackers should not be included in birdseed mixes. They have very minimal nutritional value for birds and can easily grow mold if they get wet. Stick to high quality seeds and grains instead.
What about dried fruit like raisins?
Dried fruit is not recommended as it can ferment in the crop of birds and become toxic. Omit dried fruit from any birdseed mix.
Is raw rice ok to use?
Raw rice is not a good choice for birdseed. Uncooked rice can expand in the throats and crop of birds, causing them to choke or have obstruction of their digestive system. If using rice, be sure it is cooked.
Can I offer birds kitchen scraps and leftovers?
This is generally not advised. Kitchen scraps may contain ingredients harmful to birds such as salt, seasonings, and spoiled food. They can also transmit diseases between birds. Stick to quality birdseed instead.
What about using lawn or garden seeds?
Avoid using seeds treated with insecticides, fungicides, or herbicides which could be toxic to birds. Untreated grass and wildflower seeds are okay in small amounts but lack overall nutrition.
Conclusion
When it comes to wild birdseed, quality ingredients are essential for attracting species to your yard and providing proper nutrition. Be mindful to avoid filler seeds like wheat, oats and milo as well as potentially toxic items like dried beans, popcorn, chocolate, or moldy seed. For a nutritious blend, look for sunflower seeds, peanuts, nyjer, and flax in your mix. Store birdseed properly in a cool, dry place and frequently clean feeders to keep birds happy and healthy.
