Selecting the best wild bird seed for 2024 requires careful consideration of several key factors. The variety of seeds in the mix is crucial, as a diverse blend of 10-15 different seeds, such as sunflower, millet, and nyjer, will attract a wider range of bird species to your feeder.
The nutrient content of the seed is also of high importance, with a focus on high oil and protein levels to support the energy and health needs of wild birds. The quality of the seed shells is another factor, as thinner shells, like those found on black oil sunflower seeds, are easier for smaller birds to open and access the nutritious meats inside.
Freshness is also a vital consideration, as seeds that are prone to mold or spoilage will be less appealing to birds and may even pose health risks. Avoiding seed mixes with unnecessary fillers, such as cereal or rice, is also important, as these offer minimal nutritional value for the birds.
Wagner's Four Season 100% Black Oil Sunflower Seed: Premium Bird Feeding Choice
Four Season | Black Oil Sunflower Seed | 4 Pounds | Wild Bird Food | Bac... -- $14.99(Amazon)
Wagner's Classic, 20-lb bag + Four Season 100% Black Oil Sunflower Seed ... -- $35.89(Chewy.com)
Wagner's Eastern Regional Blend Deluxe, 20-lb bag + Four Season 100% Bla... -- $43.59(Chewy.com)
Why We Picked It
Wagner's Four Season 100% Black Oil Sunflower Seed is selected for its high nutritional value and its ability to attract a wide variety of birds, making it an essential item for bird feeding enthusiasts. Its versatility and appeal across many bird species underscore its popularity. The product's natural composition ensures that birds receive a premium, energy-rich food source throughout the year, making it a must-have for anyone interested in supporting their local avian wildlife.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for individuals passionate about bird watching and feeding, especially those looking to attract a diverse range of bird species to their backyard. It's ideal for those who appreciate the natural approach to bird feeding, offering high-quality, energy-packed nourishment. However, it may not be the best choice for those specifically aiming to feed smaller bird species that struggle with cracking open the shells of these seeds.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Highly nutritious, providing a premium energy source for birds year-round | ❌ May not be suitable for smaller birds who can't crack the shells |
| ✅ Attracts a wide variety of bird species, enhancing bird watching experiences | ❌ Limited to a 4-pound package, which may require frequent repurchasing for avid bird feeders |
| ✅ Packaged in a clear, 4-pound bag for convenience and ease of use | ❌ Price point may be higher compared to standard bird seed options |
Valley Splendor Elite Wild Bird Food: Best Premium Blend for Bird Enthusiasts
Valley Splendor 9518 Elite Beak Bistro, 5-Pound, 5 lb -- $8.99(Runnings)
Valley Splendor Wild Bird Food, 50 lbs -- $19.99(Berend Bros.)
Why We Picked It
Valley Splendor Elite Wild Bird Food is chosen for its high-quality blend of seeds and nuts designed to attract a diverse array of bird species. The absence of fillers ensures that birds get more of the nutrients they need without the unnecessary additives found in some other bird foods. This makes it an excellent choice for bird enthusiasts who want to provide the best for their feathered visitors.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for bird lovers who take their hobby seriously and are willing to invest a bit more in a premium bird food blend. It's ideal for those who enjoy watching a variety of birds in their garden and want to ensure they're offering a nutritious and appealing mix.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Contains a high-quality mix of sunflower chips, safflower, and nuts | ❌ More expensive than some other bird food options |
| ✅ Free from fillers, offering more nutritional value | ❌ May not be necessary for casual bird feeders |
| ✅ Designed to attract a wide range of bird species | ❌ Premium price point may not fit all budgets |
Kaytee Wild Bird Food Basic Blend: Economical Choice for Bird Enthusiasts
Kaytee Wild Bird Food Basic Blend, 10 Lb -- $6.74(eBay - amazingdeals247)
Wild Bird Food Basic Blend, 10 lb -- $18.11(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Kaytee's Wild Bird Food Basic Blend is a top choice for bird enthusiasts looking to attract a variety of backyard birds without spending a fortune. This blend is celebrated for its balanced mix of millet, cracked corn, and sunflower seeds, designed to cater to different bird species throughout the year. Its popularity and economical price point, combined with the fact that it's made in the USA and has been a mainstay in backyard feeders, make it an attractive option for those wanting to support local wildlife.
Who It's For
This bird food blend is ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers who enjoy observing a diverse array of birds in their backyards. It's especially suited for those on a budget who still want to provide quality food for their feathered friends. However, it might not be the best fit for individuals who prefer a no-mess solution, as this blend does contain fillers that some birds may discard.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Balanced mix attracts a variety of birds | ❌ Contains fillers leading to potential waste and mess |
| ✅ Economical price for a 10 lb bag | ❌ Some birds may selectively eat, ignoring certain seeds |
| ✅ Made in the USA and supports local wildlife | ❌ Larger quantity may not be suitable for small feeders or infrequent feeding |
Lyric Supreme Wild Bird Mix: Premium Nutritional Bird Feed
Lyric 4.5 lb. Supreme Wild Bird Mix -- $10.99(Home Depot)
Lyric Supreme Wild Bird Mix 4 Pound -- $11.49(Mackey's)
Lyric 20 lb Supreme Wild Bird Food -- $30.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Lyric Supreme Wild Bird Mix is selected for its premium blend of seeds and nuts, designed to attract a wide variety of birds. Its high-quality, all-natural ingredients are free from fillers, ensuring that birds get the nutrition they need without unnecessary additives. The mix's richness in sunflower seeds and nuts provides high energy content, making it an excellent choice for bird enthusiasts who want to offer the best to their feathered visitors.
Who It's For
This bird mix is ideal for experienced bird feeders who understand the value of investing in a higher-quality seed mix to attract a diverse range of birds. It's also perfect for those who prefer to provide a nutritious and filler-free diet to their backyard birds. However, it may not be the best fit for those looking to attract bird species with specific dietary preferences that do not align with a high percentage of sunflower seeds and nuts.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Nutritional mix with a variety of seeds and nuts | ❌ May not cater to all bird species' preferences |
| ✅ Over 50% sunflower seeds and nuts for high energy | ❌ Slightly more expensive than lower-quality mixes |
| ✅ Attracts a wide variety of birds with no fillers | ❌ Contains nuts, which may not be suitable for all feeding environments due to potential allergens |
Morning Song Deluxe Wild Bird Food: Best Blend for Bird Diversity
Morning Song Wild Bird Food, Deluxe - 10 lb -- $26.66(Chewy.com)
Morning Song - Deluxe Wild Bird Food, 20 lbs. -- $33.55(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Morning Song Deluxe Wild Bird Food is chosen for its premium blend of seeds that cater to a wide variety of wild birds. Its composition is specifically designed to attract different species throughout the year, making it an excellent choice for bird enthusiasts who want to enjoy birdwatching in their own backyard.
Who It's For
This bird food is ideal for discerning bird watchers looking to attract a diverse range of birds, such as Northern Cardinals, Finches, and Chickadees. It's also suitable for those who prefer to deter squirrels and less desirable birds, thanks to the inclusion of safflower seeds.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Contains a bird-preferred mix including black oil sunflower and white millet | ❌ Some smaller birds may struggle with the larger seeds |
| ✅ Designed to attract a wide variety of birds year-round | ❌ Price may be considered high for a 10 lb or 20 lb bag |
| ✅ Safflower seeds help deter squirrels and less desirable birds | ❌ May not be suitable for all bird feeders due to seed size |
Audubon Park Songbird Selections: Premium Choice for Songbird Lovers
Audubon Park Songbird Selections Wild Bird Food, Multi-Bird with Fruits ... -- $25.86(Amazon)
Audubon Park Songbird Selections Wild Bird Food, Colorful Bird Blend - 4... -- $23.99(Sunset & Co.)
Audubon Park Premium Wild Bird Food, Songbird Blend - 4.5 lb bag -- $7.99(Target)
Audubon Park Songbird Selections Wild Bird/Poultry Bird Seed Mealworm 5 ... -- $19.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Audubon Park Songbird Selections are meticulously crafted to cater to the dietary preferences of a variety of songbirds, including finches, chickadees, and cardinals. This line of bird food stands out due to its commitment to quality, featuring a blend of natural ingredients without any fillers. The inclusion of mixed nuts, real fruit, and NutriThrive enrichment with vitamins and minerals ensures that the birds not only enjoy their meals but also receive nutritional benefits that support their immunity, energy, and reproductive health. The easy-to-reseal bags offer convenience and maintain the freshness of the food, making it an excellent choice for bird enthusiasts who prioritize the health and happiness of their feathered friends.
Who It's For
Ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers who enjoy observing a variety of songbirds in their gardens or yards and are willing to invest a bit more in a premium bird food blend that attracts a wide range of bird species. It's also perfect for those who are conscious about providing nutritious and beneficial food to support the well-being of local wildlife.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Specially formulated to attract a wide variety of songbirds including finches, chickadees, and cardinals | ❌ May be more expensive compared to standard bird food blends due to its specialized and premium ingredients |
| ✅ Contains a premium blend of sunflower, peanuts, millet, and real fruits like raisins, papaya, and cranberries without any fillers | ❌ The specialized blend might not attract as wide a variety of birds as more general bird food mixes |
| ✅ NutriThrive enriched with vitamins and minerals to support bird health and vitality | ❌ Requires proper storage to maintain freshness and effectiveness of the nutritional enrichment |
Pennington Ultra Fruit & Nut Blend: Best Nutritious Blend for Diverse Songbirds
Pennington Ultra Fruit & Nut Blend, Wild Bird Seed and Feed, 10 lb., Siz... -- $20.48(Walmart)
Songbird Nut & Fruit Blend Wild Bird Seed, 10 lb -- $22.99(Amazon)
Pennington Wild Bird Feed and Seed Ultra Nuts and Fruit Waste Free, 6 lb. -- $15.22(eBay)
Wild Bird Food Nut & Fruit Seed Blend For Cardinals, Chickadees, Nuthatc... -- $14.99(Amazon)
Pennington High Energy Nut & Fruit Blend, Wild Bird Seed, 5 lbs. -- $27.87(Walmart - Shophive LLC)
Why We Picked It
The Pennington Ultra Fruit & Nut Blend is a premium choice for bird enthusiasts looking to attract a diverse array of songbirds to their backyard. Its rich mix of fruits, nuts, and seeds is specifically formulated to cater to the dietary needs of various bird species, providing them with a high-energy diet that's essential for their health and well-being.
Who It's For
This blend is ideal for those who enjoy bird watching and wish to see a variety of colorful songbirds, such as indigo buntings, chickadees, pine siskins, finches, and cardinals. It's also perfect for individuals who are conscious about providing a nutritious diet to the local bird population. However, it may not be suitable for those who want to avoid attracting squirrels or other wildlife to their feeding stations.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Contains 100% real fruit, nuts, and seeds, offering a balanced diet for birds | ❌ May attract squirrels or other unwanted wildlife due to the rich fruit and nut content |
| ✅ Attracts a wide variety of beautiful songbirds, enhancing the bird-watching experience | ❌ Price may be higher compared to standard bird seed blends |
| ✅ Enriched with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for optimal bird health | ❌ Specific bird feeders (hopper, gazebo, or tube style) are recommended for optimal use |
Wild Delight Advanced Formula Deck, Porch N' Patio Seed: Best No-Waste Bird Seed for Clean Feeding
Wild Delight Deck Porch N' Patio Bird Food 20 lb -- $59.99(Chewy.com)
Deck, Porch N' Patio No Waste Bird Food, 5 lb -- $12.97(Amazon)
Wild Delight Deck Porch N' Patio Bird Food 5 lb -- $15.99(Ace Hardware)
Deck, Porch N' Patio and Wagner's Gourmet Waste Free Wild Bird Food Bund... -- $25.95(Amazon)
Wild Delight Deck, Porch N Patio Block -- $23.23(Amazon)
Deck, Porch N' Patio No Waste Bird Food, 5 lb & 366050 Nut N' Berry Bird... -- $26.96(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Wild Delight Advanced Formula Deck, Porch N' Patio Seed is chosen for its premium quality and no-waste formula, designed to attract a variety of birds while keeping your outdoor areas clean. Its specialized blend includes nuts and added nutrients, catering to bird enthusiasts who want to provide the best for their feathered visitors without the mess of leftover shells.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for bird lovers who enjoy feeding a wide range of wild birds and are looking for a clean feeding solution that won't leave debris on their decks or patios. It's also ideal for those who are willing to invest a bit more in a specialty bird food to ensure a high-quality, nutritious diet for their outdoor pets.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Zero-waste formula prevents mess on feeding areas | ❌ Higher price point compared to standard bird seed |
| ✅ Blended with premium ingredients like pistachios and sunflower kernels | ❌ May not fit all budgets as a specialty bird food product |
| ✅ Fortified with vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and amino acids for bird health | ❌ Specific blend may attract a narrower range of bird species |
Cole's Hot Meats Bird Seed: Squirrel-Deterrent Bird Seed
Cole's HM20 Hot Meats Bird Seed, 20-Pound -- $76.12(Amazon)
Cole's HM20 Hot Meats Bird Seed, 20-Pound -- $28(Kathy)
Cole's Hot Meats Bird Seed, 40-lb bag -- $169.95(Duncraft.com)
Cole's HM05 Hot Meats Bird Seed, 5-Pound -- $22.84(Amazon)
Cole's HM10 Hot Meats Bird Seed, 10-Pound -- $42.69(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Cole's Hot Meats Bird Seed is a unique blend designed to attract a variety of sunflower-loving birds while deterring squirrels, thanks to its infusion with food-grade chili concentrate. This innovative approach ensures that your bird feeders remain exclusive to birds, enhancing your bird-watching experience without the hassle of unwanted rodent visitors. Its all-natural, chemical-free ingredients make it a safe choice for feeding wildlife in your backyard.
Who It's For
This bird seed is ideal for avid bird watchers who face challenges with squirrels raiding their bird feeders. It's especially suited for those who appreciate a no-waste, no-mess feeding solution and enjoy seeing a variety of birds, such as bluebirds and cardinals, flock to their yards. However, it may not be the best choice for individuals who prefer not to introduce spicy foods into their local wildlife's diet or are concerned about the preferences of specific bird species.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Infused with food-grade chili to deter squirrels | ❌ Spicy coating may not suit all bird species |
| ✅ Attracts sunflower-loving birds, including bluebirds and cardinals | ❌ Higher price point compared to standard bird seed |
| ✅ 100% all-natural and chemical-free ingredients | ❌ May not align with all bird watchers' preferences for feeding wildlife |
Brown's Bird Lover's Blend No Waste Blend: Best Premium No-Waste Bird Seed Mix
Brown's Bird Lover’s Blend No-Waste Wild Bird Seed, 5-lb bag -- $24.95(Duncraft.com)
Brown's Bird Lover's Blend Wild Bird Food, No Waste Blend - 5 lbs (2.27 ... -- $12.99(PetSmart)
F.M. Brown'S Bird Lover'S Blend Fancy Finch With Cranberries For Pets, 2... -- $14.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Brown's Bird Lover's Blend No Waste Blend is an excellent choice for bird enthusiasts who want to provide quality food for their feathered friends without the mess and waste associated with traditional seed mixes. The hulled seeds ensure that birds consume the entire product, leaving no residue behind that could lead to unwanted growth under feeders or attract pests.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for bird lovers who are keen on maintaining a clean feeding environment and are willing to invest a bit more in a premium seed mix. It's also ideal for those who live in areas where sprouting seeds could be a problem or for those who prefer not to have leftover seeds scattered around their feeding areas.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Hulled seeds mean no mess and no waste | ❌ Hulled seeds can be more expensive than traditional seed mixes |
| ✅ No fillers, ensuring birds get only the nutrients they need | ❌ Price point may be higher than some competitors |
| ✅ Prevents growth under feeders from discarded seeds | ❌ May not be as widely available as other bird seed brands |
Thanks for exploring the best wild bird seed options! If you need more help or recommendations, feel free to reach out. Happy birdwatching!