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What to put in a bird feeder?

Published 08 Jul 2025
Updated 15 Jul 2025
Birds

Bird feeders are a valuable support for wild birds, especially during colder months when natural food sources are scarce. However, not all food is suitable for every bird species. Here, you’ll learn what to put in your bird feeder to attract and nourish a variety of birds in a safe and appropriate way.

Why is choosing the right food important?

Different bird species have unique dietary needs depending on the season. Providing the right food helps them stay healthy and prepare for breeding or winter. Choosing the correct food also prevents waste and ensures that birds receive the best possible nutrition without harmful ingredients.

What food is suitable for a bird feeder?

1. Sunflower seeds

Black sunflower seeds for birdsBlack sunflower seeds for birds
  • Suitable for: Tits, finches, sparrows, nuthatches, woodpeckers
  • Benefits: High in energy, easy to eat
  • Tip: Shelled sunflower seeds leave less mess under the feeder

2. Peanuts

Whole peanuts for birds.Whole peanuts for birds.
  • Suitable for: Tits, nuthatches, woodpeckers
  • Benefits: High in fat, ideal for colder months
  • Caution: Only use unsalted peanuts, as salt is harmful to birds

3. Mealworms

Dried mealworms for birds.Dried mealworms for birds.
  • Suitable for: Robins, blackbirds, wrens, tits
  • Benefits: High in protein, especially valuable during the breeding season
  • Tip: Offer dried or live mealworms for variety

4. Oats

OatsOats
  • Suitable for: Blackbirds, robins, thrushes
  • Benefits: Easily digestible, good energy source
  • Tip: Mix with plant-based fat to prevent them from being blown away

5. Fat-based food (e.g. fat balls)

Blue tit next to fat balls.Blue tit next to fat balls.
  • Suitable for: Tits, woodpeckers, nuthatches
  • Benefits: Very energy-rich, ideal for winter
  • Caution: Use fat balls without plastic netting, as birds can get trapped in them

6. Seed mixes

Blue tits on a tree eating a bird seed mix.Blue tits on a tree eating a bird seed mix.
  • Suitable for: Various bird species
  • Benefits: Provides a diverse diet
  • Tip: High-quality, shell-free mixes reduce waste under the feeder

What food should be avoided?

Not all human food is safe for birds. Avoid the following:

Unsuitable Food

Why It’s Problematic

Salted peanuts

Salt is toxic to birds

Bread and pastries

Swells in the stomach, lacks nutrients

Spiced or sweetened foods

Can cause digestive problems

Dairy products

Birds cannot digest lactose

Raw rice

Can be difficult to digest

When and how often should you feed birds?

Birds benefit from additional food year-round, but especially:

  • In winter: High-energy food helps them survive the cold months
  • In spring: Protein-rich food like mealworms supports the breeding season
  • In summer: Water and soft food are essential for young birds
  • In autumn: Fat and seed mixes help birds prepare for winter

Regularly refilling your bird feeder ensures that birds recognize it as a reliable food source.

Child smiles while presenting the assembled nest box building kitChild smiles while presenting the assembled nest box building kit

Choosing the right food is essential for feeding birds in a safe and species-appropriate way. Sunflower seeds, peanuts, mealworms, and seed mixes provide excellent nutrition for many bird species. Avoid unsuitable foods like bread or salted nuts to prevent harm. By offering a varied and high-quality food supply, you can effectively support wild birds and help them thrive.