Birds are just such wonderful birds, aren’t they? They tend to bring wonder into our own backyards. Whether you are an experienced birdwatcher or a newcomer, feeding the birds is crucial for keeping them healthy and happy. A balanced diet is not only what will attract birds to your backyard but also sustain them, particularly during lean times and when food is scarce. It’s a lovely way to feel connected to nature and express our gratitude for these amazing animals. Here, we’ll discuss what to feed birds, the best foods, and some things to note so that your birds receive all the proper nutrition.
Why Proper Bird Nutrition Matters
Proper bird nutrition is crucial for the survival and health of wild birds. Inadequate or inappropriate food consumption can lead to malnutrition, a weakened immune system, and stunted growth and development. Providing proper nutrition is crucial for the successful living of avian species, as it enables them to sustain their energy reserves, grow healthy plumage, and carry out effective reproduction. Whether one is feeding birds in a residential setting, helping migratory flocks, or caring for wild birds, knowing what they eat is essential. It will ensure that the work in providing food helps to support the health of the local bird population.
Types of Bird Food to Find
Seeds: A Favourite Among Birds
Birdseed is the most common first choice for bird feeding, and it’s easy to see why. It is easily accessible, convenient, and attracts a variety of bird species. Not all seeds are equal; however, knowing which seeds can be used for various types of birds is essential.
Black Oil Sunflower Seeds: Black oil sunflower seeds contain a high percentage of fat, making them an ideal food source for birds such as cardinals, chickadees, and finches, which provides them with the energy they need. They have small, soft shells that are simple to break open, which is a favourite among many birds.
Nyjer (Thistle) Seeds: Nyjer is a top pick for calling finches, including goldfinches and pine siskins. The tiny, dark-coloured seeds are rich in oil and provide a wealth of nutrients.
Safflower Seeds: Safflower seeds are usually preferred by cardinals, grosbeaks, and doves. They won’t tend to attract squirrels because of their bitter flavour, so they’re a great choice if you want to reduce rodent tampering.
Millet: White millet is an excellent choice for ground-feeding birds like juncos, sparrows, and doves. It’s also popular for use in mixes.
Suet: Fat for High-Energy Birds
Suet is a calorie-rich food made from animal fat that offers vital calories to birds, especially in winter. It is ideal for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and insectivores, as it mimics the natural fats found in their diets, which are typically based on insects. It can be offered in the following forms:
Plain Suet: Pure suet cakes or blocks are a natural and simple solution.
Suet with Fruit and Nuts: Many suet cakes contain additional ingredients, such as dried fruit, peanuts, or seeds, to offer a more varied menu for birds.
Nectar: For Hummingbirds and Orioles
Hummingbirds and orioles have specialized diets that consist almost entirely of nectar. If you wish to have these lovely birds visit your garden, a nectar feeder is a must.
Hummingbird Nectar: You have the option to purchase store-made nectar or prepare it yourself by mixing four parts water with one part white granulated sugar. Do not use red colouring, as it can poison the birds.
Oriole Nectar: Orioles like a similar nectar mix, but you can also supplement their diet with oranges and grapes, which offer added nutrients.
Fruit and Berries: Natural Delights
Numerous bird species love fresh fruit, not only because it is nutritious but also because it can bring a host of species to your yard. Fruit is an excellent addition to their regular diet.
Apples and Pears: Sliced apples and pears are robins’, waxwings’, and catbirds’ favourites. Be sure to remove the seeds, as they contain cyanide, which is poisonous to birds in large quantities.
Grapes: Halved grapes draw birds such as mockingbirds, bluebirds, and grosbeaks.
Berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, and elderberries, are a natural food source for numerous species, particularly during the warmer months.
Nuts: A Protein-Packed Snack
Nuts are high in protein and fat, making them a fine supplement to a bird’s diet. They’re convenient for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and squirrels, but can also draw jays and chickadees.
Peanuts: Provide unsalted, dry-roasted peanuts. Woodpeckers and jays particularly favour in-the-shell peanuts.
Walnuts and Almonds: Crushed or shelled walnuts and almonds are yet another superior choice for high-energy birds.
Grains and Bread: Treats on Occasion
Grains and bread do not necessarily constitute the healthiest foods, but they can serve as an occasional treat for specific species. They should not, however, serve as the foundation of a bird’s diet.
Oats: Rolled oats may be sown on the ground to attract birds like sparrows.
Whole Wheat Bread: Providing small quantities of whole-wheat bread will allure a great many species. Avoid feeding mouldy and excessively processed bread.
Key Considerations When Feeding Birds
Refrain from Harmful Foods
Some foods that are safe for humans are hazardous to birds. Refrain from providing:
Chocolate: Birds find it toxic even in small quantities.
Avocado: Has persin, which is poisonous to most birds.
Onions and Garlic: Cause gastrointestinal problems and even red blood cell damage in birds.
Caffeine and Alcohol: May kill birds.
Give Fresh Food Daily
Birds are drawn to fresh food, so it is essential to clean feeders regularly and discard old or spoiled food. Dried fruit or seeds with mould can be dangerous for birds, so always keep their food clean and free from contaminants.
Source of Water
Besides food, birds require a steady source of fresh water. Add a birdbath or water garden to provide your avian visitors with a source of clean water for drinking and bathing.
Think About Seasonal Requirements
In cold months, birds need high-calorie, high-fat food to get by. Suet and sunflower seeds are great winter choices. In hot months, light foods, such as nectar and fruit, are best for attracting a variety of species.
Conclusion: A Balanced Bird Diet
Bird feeding is a fun and rewarding experience with nature, but offering the correct food is necessary for the health and well-being of birds. By providing a range of seeds, suet, nectar, fruit, and nuts, you can entice a whole range of bird species to your garden and give them the nutrients they require to survive. Ensure that at all times, you remember the seasonal requirements of birds and provide food that is fresh and safe to consume.
By doing this, you’ll create a welcoming habitat for wild birds, enhancing your surroundings while supporting bird communities. So, go ahead and fill your bird feeders today and appreciate the wonders of nature right at your window.
More on how to create bird-friendly spaces from AI Tech Muz here.
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