Providing nourishment for our feathered friends is a rewarding way to connect with nature. While birdseed is a staple in many bird feeders, there’s a whole world of other foods that birds enjoy and benefit from.
Expanding Your Bird Feeding Menu
Understanding what birds eat in the wild can help us create a more diverse and appealing feeding station. By offering a variety of foods, we can attract a wider range of species and ensure they receive the nutrients they need throughout the year.
Beyond the Seed: A Buffet for Birds
This guide explores a range of nutritious and delicious alternatives to traditional birdseed, empowering you to create a vibrant and welcoming haven for birds in your backyard.
What Can You Feed Birds Besides Bird Seed
While bird seed is a staple in many bird feeders, there’s a whole world of delicious and nutritious foods that you can offer our feathered friends. Providing a variety of food sources can attract a wider range of birds to your yard and keep them healthy and happy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you can feed birds besides bird seed.
Fruits and Berries
Many birds love the sweetness and juiciness of fruits and berries. Fresh or dried, these treats offer essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Fresh Fruits
- Apples (sliced or diced)
- Bananas (mashed or sliced)
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- Grapes (halved or quartered)
- Melons (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew)
- Oranges (segmented)
- Peaches (sliced)
- Pears (sliced)
- Plums (halved)
Dried Fruits
- Cranberries
- Raisins
- Dried apricots
- Dried figs
Remember to remove any seeds or pits from fruits before offering them to birds, as these can be harmful.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of protein, fat, and fiber, providing birds with the energy they need. (See Also: What Birds Lay Light Blue Eggs)
Nuts
- Almonds (unsalted)
- Black walnuts
- Cashews (unsalted)
- Pecans
- Pine nuts
- Sunflower seeds (shelled or unshelled)
Other Seeds
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sesame seeds
- Chia seeds
Be sure to offer unsalted nuts, as salt can be harmful to birds.
Insects and Mealworms
Insects are a natural and highly nutritious food source for many birds.
Mealworms
Mealworms are a popular choice for bird feeders, as they are readily available and packed with protein. Offer them whole or dried.
Other Insects
- Crickets
- Grasshoppers
- Ants
- Beetles
You can find live insects at pet stores or online. Be sure to offer them in a clean and safe environment.
Sugary Treats (in Moderation)**
While not essential, some birds enjoy occasional sugary treats. However, these should be offered sparingly, as too much sugar can be detrimental to their health.
Jelly and Nectar**
- Unsweetened jelly (grape or raspberry)
- Nectar feeders (filled with sugar water solution)
Always use fresh jelly and clean nectar feeders regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Water**
Clean, fresh water is essential for all birds. Provide a birdbath or shallow dish of water for drinking and bathing.
Keeping Water Fresh**
- Change the water daily.
- Clean the birdbath regularly to remove algae and debris.
- Add a few stones or marbles to the birdbath to provide perching spots for birds.
Important Considerations**
When choosing foods for birds, consider the following:
* **Bird Species:** Different birds have different dietary preferences. Research the types of birds that visit your yard to determine what they enjoy eating.
* **Seasonality:** Birds’ food needs change throughout the year. Offer a variety of foods to meet their seasonal requirements.
* **Food Quality:** Choose fresh, high-quality foods. Avoid moldy or spoiled food.
* **Safety:** Remove any uneaten food from feeders to prevent spoilage and attract pests.
Recap**
Providing a diverse menu of foods beyond bird seed can enrich the lives of birds in your yard. From fruits and berries to nuts, seeds, insects, and even occasional sugary treats, there are many options to explore. Remember to prioritize fresh, high-quality foods, consider the specific needs of the birds in your area, and always ensure clean water is available. By offering a variety of nutritious options, you can create a welcoming and thriving habitat for your feathered friends.
What Can You Feed Birds Besides Bird Seed?
Can I give birds fruit?
Yes, many birds love fruit! Apples, oranges, grapes, berries, and melons are all good options. Be sure to cut fruit into small pieces to prevent choking hazards.
What about vegetables?
Birds enjoy a variety of vegetables too. Offer chopped broccoli, carrots, peas, corn, or leafy greens. You can even try cooked vegetables, like sweet potatoes or squash.
Can I feed birds suet?
Suet is a high-energy food that’s especially helpful during the winter months. It’s made from rendered animal fat and can be purchased pre-made or you can make your own by mixing fat with seeds, nuts, or dried fruit.
What about bread?
While it’s tempting to feed birds bread, it’s not actually very nutritious for them. Bread can also be difficult to digest and can lead to health problems. It’s best to avoid feeding bread to birds.
Are there any other things I can feed birds?
Yes! Mealworms are a great source of protein for birds. You can also offer nuts, seeds, and even insects like crickets or grasshoppers.