Buntings are a group of small seed-eating songbirds found across North America. They are colorful birds that frequent gardens, yards, fields and thickets. Buntings are attracted to various seeds, but they do have preferences when it comes to which seeds they seek out. Knowing what seeds buntings prefer can help birders and gardening enthusiasts attract these lively birds to their spaces.
What are buntings?
Buntings are a group of small songbirds in the passerine family Passerellidae. There are around 35 species of bunting across North America. Some of the most common bunting species include:
- Indigo bunting
- Painted bunting
- Lark bunting
- Snow bunting
- Lazuli bunting
Buntings are predominantly seed eaters. They have sturdy, conical beaks that are ideal for cracking open seeds. Though small, usually 4-7 inches in length, buntings are chunky birds with powerful beaks.
Male buntings are more colorful than females. They display brightly colored feathers during mating season to attract females. Outside of mating season, male bunting plumage is less vibrant. Female buntings have muted brown, gray or greenish feathers that provide good camouflage while incubating eggs and raising young.
Bunting behavior
Buntings forage for seeds on the ground or in low vegetation. They often feed in small flocks, descending on a food source en masse. Buntings will also occasionally eat insects, especially during breeding season when they require extra protein to produce eggs.
Many bunting species migrate long distances. They breed in northern regions during summer and migrate south for winter. Some bunting species only occupy certain habitats during breeding vs. wintering. For example, indigo buntings nest in woodland edges but overwinter in open fields.
When attracted to a productive food source, buntings can be bold. They will come into gardens, yards, and agricultural fields. However, they are also easily spooked by predators and sudden movements. Attracting buntings requires providing seed in an open setting they perceive as safe.
Preferred bunting seeds
When given options, buntings selectively forage for certain seeds. Ornithologists have conducted feeding studies to determine which seeds various bunting species prefer. Here are some top seeds that attract buntings:
Thistle
Thistle seed is attractive to buntings like the goldfinch. The nyjer seed of thistle plants can be purchased commercially. Black oil sunflower also attracts buntings but thistle is often preferred. The small size fits nicely into bunting beaks.
Millet
Millet is a grass that produces abundant tiny seeds. Both white proso millet and red millet attract buntings. For the greatest appeal, buntings prefer de-hulled millet. The small seeds are easy for buntings to consume.
Safflower
Safflower seeds entice buntings like cardinals. Safflower has a high oil content, making it nutritious and high in calories. The tough shell deters small birds but buntings can crack it open. Offer safflower to attract buntings while deterring squirrels and chickadees.
Cracked corn
Whole corn kernels are too large for buntings to consume. But cracked corn, chopped into smaller pieces, is an ideal bunting food. The fat and carbohydrate content make it a valuable energy source. Scatter cracked corn to lure buntings into feeders or yards.
Niger seed
Not to be confused with nyjer thistle, niger seed comes from an African yellow daisy. The tiny, oil-rich seeds appeal to finches and buntings. Black niger seed is bolder and easier for buntings to spot. Offering niger seed can convince buntings to become feeder regulars.
Best bunting feeders
Offering seeds in a specialized bunting feeder can make it easier for these small birds to access food. Here are some feeder types that work well:
Tube feeders
Tube feeders with short perches and small ports suit buntings. The birds can cling to the perches and extract one seed at a time. Look for tube feeders made from transparent materials so the seed is visible.
| Tube Feeder Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Small perch bar | Accommodates buntings |
| Short perch-to-seed distance | Easy reach to seed ports |
| Transparent construction | Seed is visible as it empties |
Tray feeders
Tray or platform feeders provide open access to seeds. Buntings can perch on the tray edges to delicately pluck out seeds. Try mixing millet, cracked corn, and niger seeds in tray feeders.
Ground feeding
Scattering seeds directly on the ground allows buntings to forage naturally. Try broadcasting a mix of millet, safflower, cracked corn, and niger seeds. Create ground feeding zones in open areas so buntings feel safe approaching.
When and where to offer seeds
To attract the greatest number of buntings, be strategic about when and where you provide bird seed:
- Offer seeds year round to support both migrating and resident bunting populations
- Focus feeding efforts during spring and fall migration periods
- Provide seeds in open grassy areas, gardens, or woodland edges
- Scatter or erect feeders within vegetation for cover
- Avoid placing feeders too close to dense brush where predators lurk
Following these guidelines can help establish your habitat as a bunting hot spot!
Conclusion
Buntings are inquisitive foragers drawn to specific seeds like millet, thistle, safflower and cracked corn. By offering their favorite foods in tube feeders, tray feeders or scattered on the ground, you can attract buntings to your outdoor space. With a little trial and error, you can determine the best bunting buffet to accommodate these charming songbirds all year round. Soon your garden or yard may become a regular dining spot for these colorful and lively seed-loving birds.
