Seed Feeders

Bird Seed Feeders - A Quick Guide

Hanging seed feeders is one of the best ways to do your bit to help our native wild birds. Here we provide advice on using these devices with best practice in mind.

What birds do seed feeders attract?

Seed feeders attract birds that feed on seeds as a part of their natural diet. While birds will eat a wide variety of seeds, here are a few favourites to include in the mix.

• Red millet – sparrows
• Sunflower hearts - lots of birds, including tits and finches
• Niger seed – goldfinches, siskins
• Seed mix – a broad variety including finches, tits, robins, nuthatches

How to stop waste falling from bird seed feeders

If you have an issue with bird seed falling on the ground, here are some ideas that can help you tackle the problem:

• Take your feeders into the house to clean and refill so that you don’t spill seed
• Consider filling each feeder with a different type of seed to reduce seed sorting and tossing
• Buy quality seed which is less likely to be thrown away by birds as they sift it looking for good seeds
• Choose seed feeders with trays underneath designed to catch falling seeds

How often should I clean my bird seed feeder?

We recommend cleaning your bird seed feeders weekly. To do so, take the feeder down and take it inside so the seed doesn’t end up on the ground, where it may attract vermin. Empty the uneaten seed and clean the feeder with hot, soapy water, using a brush to scrub off any caked-on food residue and mess. Rinse well with clean, fresh water and allow it to dry before replenishing it.

Particularly in wet or humid conditions, you must check, clean and replenish your feeders regularly; damp conditions can make seeds mouldy and encourage the spread of pathogens.