Bird watching is an excellent way to get in touch with nature and observe the beauty of the avian world. Watching wild birds swarming around the bird feeder in your backyard is an incredible sight. But their diet requires the right balance of nutrition for them to thrive. Many people think that any type of bird seed will do, but unfortunately, not all seeds are created equal.
Some bird seed mixes contain cheap fillers like milo, red millet, and wheat, which may not appeal to certain bird species. On the other hand, premium seed blends like black oil sunflower seeds, safflower, and peanuts that contain high protein, fat, and carbohydrates, are more likely to attract wild birds to your feeding station. Seeds like sunflower provide critical nutrients and the oil coats the skin and feathers, helping birds to maintain good health throughout the year.
You may have noticed cheap seed blends at your local store that appear more affordable. But the nutritional content of these seed mixes may be lower, which could contribute to malnutrition in birds. Birds require nourishing food to survive the harsh winters, long migrations, and during the breeding season. The nutritional requirements of wild birds differ based on their species and habitat, so it's essential to provide a varied seed mix that caters to their needs.
The right seeds for wild birds can also help to minimize the formation of droppings. Cheaper seed mixes often contain indigestible materials like red millet, which can lead to an increase in bird waste which can be challenging to clean up. By choosing high-end seeds like those that contain sunflower, bird waste will be less of a problem, making cleaning the feeding area easier.
Some foreign seeds like morning glories and Iris are toxic to wild birds and can cause severe health problems, including death. Although these seeds may be present in cheaper seed mixes, it's crucial to remove them before feeding the birds. Choosing ethical seed blends from reputable sellers can help to eliminate these dangers, ensuring that you provide safe and healthy food to the birds.
Additionally, it helps to minimize bird waste and reduce the possibility of toxicity. As such, it's vital to purchase high-quality seed blends that cater to the nutrition of various species and to steer clear of cheap seed mixes to ensure the best possible care for our feathered friends.