Wild Bird Seeds

Seraphim Hawthorn
16 min readJun 19, 2024

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Discover the world of wild bird seed with our comprehensive roundup article. From top brands to eco-friendly options, we’ve gathered the best wild bird seed products available for your backyard birdwatching needs. Get ready to attract a variety of birds with our carefully curated selection.

The Top 11 Best Wild Bird Seeds

  1. Pennington Ultra Fruit and Nut Blend — Premium Wild Bird Feeder — Pennington Ultra Fruit and Nut Blend Wild Bird Feed, 6 lbs — Lure vibrant songbirds with the taste of real fruit, while providing a balanced nutrition for year-round feeding.
  2. Pennington Classic Wild Bird Seed: Attracts Songbirds with Quality Ingredients — Attract a wide variety of beautiful songbirds like Cardinals, Goldfinches, and Chickadees with Pennington Classic Wild Bird Feed — a blend of desirable grains and seeds for year-round feeding, perfect for hopper, gazebo, and tube feeders.
  3. Attract Wild Birds with Royal Wing Farm Mix Wild Bird Seed — Attract a variety of colorful birds with Royal Wing Farm Mix, featuring high-quality ingredients, easy-to-use feeders, and storage tips for an enjoyable bird-watching experience.
  4. Enrich Birds with 20 lb Ace Birdseed — Nourish wild bird colonies with Ace Birdseed Wild Bird Food, featuring essential vitamins and an irresistible blend of premium ingredients for year-round survival.
  5. Wagner’s Classic Wild Bird Food: 6-Pound Bag for Green Birds — Feed your backyard wildlife with Wagner’s 6 LB Classic Wild Bird Food, a high-quality mix of Millet, milo, corn, and Sunflower to attract various species all year round.
  6. Wild Harvest Premium Universal Bird Seed — Wild Harvest’s nutrient-rich Universal Blend for medium and large birds is a must-have for hookbills, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and an irresistible taste that promotes healthy feathers and shiny skin. Fill daily for optimal freshness.
  7. Pennington Select Black Oil Sunflower Seed Wild Bird Feed — Unlock a variety of bird species with Pennington Select Black Oil Sunflower Seed Wild Bird Feed, designed to attract and nourish a wide range of seed-eating birds, making it an excellent choice for year-round feeding.
  8. Member’s Mark Premium Wild Bird Seed for Attracting a Variety of Songbirds — Experience the beauty of songbirds in your yard with Member’s Mark Supreme Blend Wild Bird Food, a premium 40-pound seed blend that attracts a variety of species for a healthy, high-quality bird feeding experience.
  9. Economy Mix Wild Bird Feed: Value Bird Seed Blend for Dry, 20 lb. Bag — Attract a diverse flock of backyard birds to your feeders with the wholesome blend of Economy Mix Wild Bird Feed, known for its high-quality ingredients and food safety certification.
  10. Pennington Classic Southwest Wild Bird Seed — Southwestern Blend for Beautiful Attraction — Attract Southwestern wild birds to your yard with Pennington Classic Southwest’s vitamin-enriched, high-quality bird seed, providing a balanced diet and a mess-free feeding experience.
  11. Rural King Wild Bird Seed Variety Pack — 40 lbs. Bags — Attract and feed a variety of birds with Rural King Wild Bird Seed, a high-energy mix of cracked corn, black oil sunflower seeds, and white millet perfect for use in tube, hopper, or platform-style feeders.

As an Amazon Associate, we receive compensation through qualified purchases at no cost to you!

Reviews

Pennington Ultra Fruit and Nut Blend — Premium Wild Bird Feeder

I recently tried the Pennington Ultra Fruit and Nut Blend Wild Bird Feed, and I must say, it was a real treat for both me and my feathered friends. The bag contains a variety of colorful seeds, grains, nuts, and fruit pieces that attract various songbirds.

One of the standout features is the fruit inclusion, which gives the birds a real reason to sing, as advertised. I noticed that this blend brought a whole new dimension to my bird feeding experience. The birds get really excited when they see the Ultra blend and quickly scoop the delicious mix onto the feeding platform.

However, one thing I noticed was that the Ultra blend attracted some unwanted critters too, mainly squirrels, who can be a bit aggressive when trying to feed. Although the reviews mention the feed also appeals to squirrels, I found it more of an issue as it prevented smaller birds from getting their fair share of food. But overall, the Ultra blend is an excellent choice for those looking to introduce a high-quality wild bird feed to their bird-watching routine.

Pennington Classic Wild Bird Seed: Attracts Songbirds with Quality Ingredients

When I first opened the bag of Pennington Classic Wild Bird Feed, I was excited to see what goodies lay inside. I’d read the reviews and found a mix of positive and negative opinions. As a bird lover, I thought I’d experience a variety of birds flocking to my yard.

What stood out to me were the high-quality ingredients like white millet and black oil sunflower seed, which attracted not only Cardinals, Goldfinches, and Chickadees, but also many other species. My yard became a hub for bird watching, and I was delighted to see their antics.

However, there was a concern I shared with many other reviewers: seemingly excessive amounts of millet. It is often used as a filler in bird feed, and my yard ended up being painted a deep shade of red after the millet spilled onto the ground. While the birds still visited, I couldn’t help but wonder if the blend had been altered for profit reasons.

Additionally, the messiness of the feed was another issue. I had to constantly clean up the fallen seeds, which contributed to the overall annoyance of the product.

Despite the concerns, the Pennington Classic Wild Bird Feed did attract a wide variety of birds, and they were able to feed on it year-round. If the manufacturer could find a balance between quality and affordability by avoiding excessive additives, it would be a top choice for any bird enthusiast.

Attract Wild Birds with Royal Wing Farm Mix Wild Bird Seed

I noticed the distinct hops the blue jays make when they land on the platform feeder filled with Royal Wing Farm Mix. The blend of milo and black oil sunflower seed seemed to be the main attraction for these birds, with the occasional visit from the sparrows and cardinals. As I refilled the feeder, the squirrels also got a taste, making it a real battle of the birds.

The quality of the food and its ability to entice a variety of birds made my backyard the perfect place for birdwatching.

Enrich Birds with 20 lb Ace Birdseed

I recently tried Ace Birdseed Wild Bird Food, and I have mixed feelings about it. On one hand, the bag contains a variety of ingredients like millet, Milo, sunflower oil, cracked corn, wheat, and vitamins/minerals for the birds’ health during long winters and stressful breeding/migration times. These ingredients are known to attract a range of wild birds, which is a plus.

However, I also noticed some potential downsides. The seed mix contains a lot of corn, which isn’t the favorite of many birds, and it could be filled with too much filler. Additionally, some bags have been reported to contain mold and a lot of sand, which can be an issue when trying to provide a clean feeding environment for the birds.

Overall, I think Ace Birdseed Wild Bird Food has the potential to attract a variety of birds, but potential buyers should be aware of the possible downsides and make sure to find a clean, unsold bag to minimize any issues with mold, sand, or filler.

Wagner’s Classic Wild Bird Food: 6-Pound Bag for Green Birds

Wagner’s 6 LB Classic Wild Bird Food is a high-quality blend of sunflower seeds, millet, cracked corn, and milo, designed to attract a wide variety of songbirds. With the help of over 100 years of experience in formulating wildlife-loving products, this mix is perfect for use throughout the year, especially during winter when natural seeds may be scarce.

This seed blend works well for tube, hopper, or platform feeders, and can attract birds such as jays, cardinals, doves, juncos, finches, goosebeaks, and many more. While some users have reported issues with messiness and concerns over corn content, overall, Wagner’s 6 LB Classic Wild Bird Food is an effective way to fill your yard with the avian companions you love.

Wild Harvest Premium Universal Bird Seed

Wild Harvest Universal Blend for Medium and Large Birds is an all-in-one blend of high-quality seeds and vegetables, designed to provide the optimal balanced diet for a wide range of bird species. With a mix of sunflower seeds and safflower seeds, it’s an ideal choice for those who want to maintain healthy, happy birds with shiny feathers and good skin.

The Universal Blend is formulated to be appealing to cockatiels, parrots, lovebirds, and other hookbills, making it a versatile offering for bird enthusiasts. Wild Harvest takes pride in using only premium ingredients and fortifying their blends with essential vitamins and minerals.

However, one small downside to this product is the potential for messiness. Wild Harvest’s Universal Blend may contain more colored filler than seed, resulting in a greater quantity of discarded waste. Nevertheless, this minor inconvenience shouldn’t deter users from providing their birds with the nutritious seeds they need.

Overall, the Wild Harvest Universal Blend for Medium and Large Birds is a high-quality seed and vegetable mix, providing the essential nutrients required for a happy and healthy life. Just be sure to clean the seed cup daily and provide fresh drinking water with each feeding to maintain optimal bird health.

Pennington Select Black Oil Sunflower Seed Wild Bird Feed

The Pennington Select Black Oil Sunflower Seed Wild Bird Feed is a popular choice for bird lovers, with an impressive 4.4-star rating backed by 4,759 reviews. This high-quality seed attracts a diverse range of birds, including woodpeckers, titmice, house finches, juncos, nuthatches, pine siskins, and more. The formula is vitamin-enriched, making it an excellent source of nutrients for these feathery friends.

One aspect that impresses buyers is the wide variety of birds that are attracted to the Pennington Select Black Oil Sunflower Seed. Users often share photos of different bird species, showcasing the product’s appealing nature. However, not all customers are consistently satisfied, with some reporting issues such as the seed being filled with sticks and wood chips instead of edibles, causing inconvenience and wastage.

Despite these minor setbacks, the majority of buyers find the Pennington Select Black Oil Sunflower Seed Wild Bird Feed an excellent investment for their bird feeders. The product is a great staple for year-round bird feeding and makes a fantastic addition to any garden or outdoor space, offering an enjoyable observing experience for both birds and their admirers.

Member’s Mark Premium Wild Bird Seed for Attracting a Variety of Songbirds

As someone who loves attracting a variety of birds to my yard, I recently gave Member’s Mark Supreme Blend Wild Bird Food a try, and I must say, it didn’t disappoint. This premium seed blend is packed with goodness that your feathered friends can’t resist.

One of the things that stood out to me was the use of sunflower bird food. Not only does it contain sunflower chips, but it also has an enticing blend of raisins and peanuts. This irresistible combination definitely helped in drawing in an assortment of wild birds to my yard. It even managed to attract some rare species that typically shy away from bird feeders.

However, I must admit, there was a bit of messiness involved. The abundance of sunflower seeds and the absence of any shells meant that a significant amount of waste was accumulated under the feeder. I had to pay extra attention to the location of my feeder to minimize the mess, which was a bit of a hassle.

In conclusion, Member’s Mark Supreme Blend Wild Bird Food is a high-quality product that will attract a vibrant assortment of songbirds to your yard. While it may require a bit of extra effort to manage the waste, the joy of watching the birds enjoy their feast makes it all worthwhile.

Economy Mix Wild Bird Feed: Value Bird Seed Blend for Dry, 20 lb. Bag

Introducing the Economy Mix Wild Bird Feed, a value bird seed blend that has captured the hearts and stomachs of many bird enthusiasts. This dry seed mix, weighing in at a weighty 20 lbs, is designed to attract a variety of wild birds, making it a popular choice for those wanting to add an array of vibrant feathers to their backyard. With a blend of grain, white proso millet, and black oil sunflower seeds, this mix has been formulated to appeal to a wide range of birds including finches, chickadees, nuthatches, woodpeckers, and cardinals, just to name a few.

The brand’s commitment to bird health is evident in their food safety certification, ensuring that your feathered friends are getting the best. However, do note that a few users have reported issues with weevils infesting the seed, which might impact your experience.

Despite these concerns, many happy customers have reported their birds flocking to this feed, making it a worthy consideration for both birdwatchers and their feathered friends. Whether you’re looking to attract a wide range of species or simply add a touch of bird life to your backyard, this value bird seed blend is worth a try.

Pennington Classic Southwest Wild Bird Seed — Southwestern Blend for Beautiful Attraction

The Pennington Classic Southwest Blend is a delightful surprise for the wild birds in your backyard. I’ve been using this blend for a few weeks now, and I must say, it’s been a hit with the neighborhood birds. The blend is a balanced mix of different seeds and grains, attracting a diverse range of birds and squirrels too.

As with any bird feed, there is a bit of mess involved, but it’s a small price to pay for the joy of watching the birds enjoy their meal. One downside is the presence of milo, which seems to be the preferred choice of our wild rabbits. However, the blend has enough other goodies that it doesn’t take away from the overall experience.

The packaging is a bit small, but it’s perfect for those of us who don’t have a lot of storage space. It’s easy to hang and place on the ground, making it versatile for different types of feeders. The price is reasonable, especially considering the quality of ingredients.

Overall, I would highly recommend this Pennington Classic Southwest Blend for anyone looking to attract and feed a variety of wild birds in their backyard. The birds seem to love it just as much as I do, and it’s a great way to contribute to the local wildlife community.

Rural King Wild Bird Seed Variety Pack — 40 lbs. Bags

If you’re looking to attract an array of birds and keep them coming back, look no further than Country Road Wild Bird Seed. This high-energy mix features a delicious assortment of black oil sunflower seeds, white millet, cracked corn, milo, wheat, and mineral oil, making it perfect for feeding in tube, hopper, or platform-style feeders.

Stored in a cool, dry area, this 40-pound bag is sure to keep your feathered friends happy and healthy throughout the winter months. The presence of black oil sunflower seeds, in particular, is a big plus for birds as they provide a valuable source of energy due to their high-fat content.

And with this seed mix, you’ll be able to attract a wide variety of birds to your home, including cardinals, chickadees, juncos, song sparrows, and many more! Don’t miss out on the chance to bring joy and warmth to your home with Country Road Wild Bird Seed.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive buyer’s guide for Wild Bird Seed. This guide aims to provide you with essential information on various types of wild bird seed available in the market, key considerations before making a purchase, and general advice on using these products. By the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to attract and nurture a variety of wild birds in your backyard.

Understanding Different Types of Wild Bird Seed

There is a wide range of wild bird seed options available. The most common types include sunflower seeds, black-oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, thistle seeds, and nyjer seeds. Each type of seed attracts different birds, so it’s essential to know which birds you want to attract before purchasing birdseed. For instance, sunflower seeds are popular with goldfinches, sparrows, and chickadees, while thistle seeds cater primarily to smaller birds like house wrens and bluebirds.

Choosing the Right Feeder for Your Birdseed

Selecting the appropriate feeder is crucial in maintaining the quality, freshness, and safety of your wild bird seed. Consider factors like the size and weight of the birds you are trying to attract, the seed type, and the climate in your region. Different types of feeders include platform feeders, tube feeders, hopper feeders, and seed ports. Research the best feeder for your specific needs and budget before making a purchase.

Where to Buy Wild Bird Seed

You can purchase wild bird seed at various places, including dedicated birdseed stores, pet supply stores, garden centers, and even online from trusted retailers. Before buying, research the reputation of the seller and read reviews from other customers to ensure the quality of the birdseed and its longevity.

Tips on Placing and Maintaining Your Wild Bird Seed Feeder

To ensure the success of your wild bird seed attracting efforts, follow these tips:

  1. Place your feeder in a location that ensures safety from predators and harsh weather conditions;
  2. Choose a place that is accessible but minimally exposed to rain, snow, or direct sunlight;
  3. Clean your feeder regularly to prevent mold and bacterial growth;
  4. Refill the feeder when needed and keep an eye on the freshness of the birdseed to avoid spoilage.

FAQ

What are the benefits of using wild bird seed for bird feeding?

Wild bird seed offers several benefits for bird feeding. Firstly, it is specifically designed to attract a variety of wild bird species, providing them with essential nutrition. Secondly, it is made from natural ingredients, making it safe and healthy for birds to consume. Lastly, using wild bird seed helps promote bird conservation by supporting the local bird population.

Additionally, wild bird seed comes in various types, such as sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and thistle seeds, catering to different bird species’ dietary needs. Moreover, it encourages natural foraging behaviors among birds, promoting their overall health and well-being. Overall, using wild bird seed for bird feeding offers multiple advantages for both the birds and their human caretakers.

Is it safe to use wild bird seed all year round?

While wild bird seed is generally safe to use all year round, it is essential to maintain proper storage and rotation practices to ensure its freshness and quality. Store wild bird seed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture, as these factors can degrade the seed’s quality over time. It is also essential to rotate your seed supply regularly, ideally every two to three months, to prevent the growth of mold or mildew.

Furthermore, it is crucial to provide birds with a diverse range of seeds and grain sources throughout the year. This ensures that they receive proper nutrition and can adapt to changing seasonal conditions. By following these guidelines, you can safely feed wild birds with wild bird seed throughout the year.

What is the difference between wild bird seed and commercial bird seed?

The primary difference between wild bird seed and commercial bird seed lies in their composition and target audience. Wild bird seed is specifically designed to attract wild birds, such as finches, sparrows, and cardinals, and is made from natural ingredients that cater to their specific dietary needs. Wild bird seed typically contains a mix of sunflower, safflower, and thistle seeds, as well as other grains.

On the other hand, commercial bird seed is generally formulated for domestic birds, such as parakeets and canaries, and may contain additional ingredients, such as additives and fillers, to appeal to a broader audience. Commercial bird seed is often made from a mix of grains, such as wheat and millet, and may include smaller amounts of seeds and nuts. While commercial bird seed can still attract wild birds, it is generally less effective due to its broader appeal and lower concentration of bird-specific ingredients.

How do I choose the right wild bird seed for my backyard?

To choose the right wild bird seed for your backyard, consider the following factors: the bird species you want to attract, your local climate, and the season. Different bird species have varying dietary preferences, so selecting a seed mix that targets those species is essential. For example, sunflower seeds are a popular choice for attracting mourning doves, while thistle seeds are perfect for finches. Your local climate will also play a role in determining the best seed mix for your area, as some seeds may have higher fat content to help birds maintain their energy levels during colder months.

Seasonal factors should also be considered when selecting a wild bird seed mix. For instance, during the winter months, birds may require higher-energy seeds to maintain their body temperature and endurance during harsh weather conditions. In contrast, during the spring and summer months, birds may require more seeds with higher nutritional value to help them reproduce and raise their young. By considering these factors, you can choose the right wild bird seed mix to ensure a thriving and diverse backyard bird population.

Can I mix different types of wild bird seed?

Yes, you can mix different types of wild bird seed to create a more diverse and attractive offering for a variety of bird species. Mixing seeds, such as sunflower, safflower, and thistle, can provide birds with a well-rounded diet and encourage them to visit your backyard feeder more frequently. Additionally, different seed sizes can also be blended to cater to various bird species’ beak sizes and preferences.

It is essential to maintain a balance between the different seed types, as some birds may prefer specific seeds, while others may dislike them. A general rule of thumb is to use a 1:1:1 ratio of sunflower, safflower, and thistle seeds, with smaller seeds like millet and peanuts making up a smaller portion of the mix. By carefully selecting the seed types and proportions, you can create a custom wild bird seed mix that will attract and support a diverse range of bird species in your backyard.

What is the best feeding method for wild bird seed?

The best feeding method for wild bird seed depends on the type of feeder you choose and the bird species you want to attract. Platform feeders, hopper feeders, and tube feeders are all effective options for providing wild bird seed to a variety of birds. Platform feeders are great for attracting ground-feeding birds, such as pigeons and doves, while hopper feeders and tube feeders are suitable for attracting perching birds, such as sparrows and finches.

When selecting a feeder, consider factors such as size, capacity, and placement. The feeder should be easily accessible and visible to birds, but placed in a location that minimizes predator activity. Additionally, regular maintenance and cleaning of the feeder are essential to prevent the buildup of mold or mildew and ensure the bird seed remains fresh and safe for consumption. By choosing the right feeder and providing proper care, you can create an effective and attractive wild bird seed feeding station for your local bird population.

As an Amazon Associate, we receive compensation through qualified purchases at no cost to you!

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