What Birds Eat Niger Seed? Niger seed is a favorite food of finches, especially goldfinches, siskins, and redpolls. Niger seed, also known as thistle seed, is a popular birdseed that is grown in Africa and Asia.
It is an oil-rich seed and is highly nutritious for birds. Niger seed is small and black and attracts a variety of birds to bird feeders. However, not all birds eat niger seed. Some birds, such as doves, pigeons, and larger birds, have difficulty cracking the tiny seeds and do not eat them.
On the other hand, finches, especially goldfinches, siskins, and redpolls, love niger seed and will visit feeding stations repeatedly to feed. Niger seed is a great way to attract these colorful birds to your backyard and observe them up close.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/birds-that-eat-nyjer-seed-386533-hero-764eb57e606a4394b3592bc00590384a.jpg)
Credit: www.thespruce.com
Why Do Birds Eat Niger Seed?
Niger seed is a favorite among many bird species due to its delicious taste and numerous benefits. The high oil content in niger seed is a fantastic source of energy for birds that need to maintain their body temperature. The small seeds are packed with protein, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them an ideal food source for a wide range of bird species.
The calcium and protein contents in niger seed are particularly beneficial for birds that breed in the spring and need to lay strong, healthy eggs. Finches, doves, and various species of sparrows are among the most common birds that consume niger seed.
Because it attracts such a diverse range of birds, niger seed can be a valuable addition to any bird feeding station or bird garden.
Ultimate List Of Niger Seed-Loving Birds
Niger seed is a favorite food among many bird species, including the American goldfinch, house finch, and pine siskin. Other birds that love niger seeds include purple finch, indigo bunting, and common redpoll. Niger seeds are also a favorite of many European bird species like Eurasian siskin, European greenfinch, and European goldfinch.
African species such as white-headed buffalo-weaver, African silverbill, and village indigobird also enjoy niger seeds. Generally, niger seeds are preferred by finches, but other birds such as doves and pigeons may also eat them. Niger seeds can be found in different parts of the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Depending on the bird species, niger seeds might be a principal or secondary food source, and some birds may travel considerable distances to access them.
Niger Seed Feeder Maintenance
Maintaining a niger seed feeder is crucial to keep your feathered friends healthy and happy. To begin, always ensure the seeds are dry and fresh. Clean up any leftover seeds and debris around the feeder regularly. It’s important to scrub and disinfect the feeder once a week to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.
Use a mild soap and hot water to clean the feeder thoroughly. Rinse it properly and let it dry completely before refilling it. Avoid using harsh chemicals to clean the feeder, as this can be harmful to birds. Remember, your little avian visitors depend on you to provide a safe, healthy feeding environment.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can ensure your niger seed feeder stays clean and keeps your bird friends coming back for more.
Other Foods To Offer Seed-Loving Birds
Offering a variety of seeds for birds is essential to ensure a well-rounded diet. Outside of niger seed, there are many other seed types that birds love. These seeds can be mixed with niger seed or offered separately. Prepare seeds by washing and drying them before serving.
Sunflower seeds are a popular choice and are high in calories. Safflower seeds are also high in calories and contain a natural repellent for squirrels. Black oil seeds are rich in fat and protein, while white proso millet is high in carbohydrates.
Finally, flaxseed is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. By supplementing niger seed with these options, birds will receive a complete and balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions Of What Birds Eat Niger Seed
What Is Niger Seed?
Niger seed is a small black seed that comes from the yellow daisy-like flower which is native to Ethiopia. It is rich in oil content and protein and is a favorite food for several bird species.
What Type Of Birds Eat Niger Seed?
Niger seed is a favorite food for finches, sparrows, doves, and other small birds. It is particularly popular among goldfinches and pine siskins in North America.
Can Niger Seed Be Fed To Birds All Year Round?
Yes, niger seeds can be fed to birds all year round. It is best to use a specialized niger seed feeder so that birds can easily access them and avoid any dampness.
Is Niger Seed Better Than Other Bird Seeds?
Niger seed is high in protein and oil content, providing birds with a superior source of energy. Compared to other bird seeds, it has smaller seeds and is less messy, making it easier for birds to handle.
Where Can I Buy Niger Seed?
Niger seed can be purchased at most pet stores, garden centers, and online. Make sure to check the quality and freshness of the seed before offering it to the birds.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our discussion on what birds eat niger seed, we now have a better understanding of how this tiny yet nutritious seed has become a staple in many bird feeders. The diverse range of birds that enjoy niger seed makes it a fantastic option for attracting different bird species to your backyard.
There are numerous benefits of adding niger seed to your bird feeding regimen, such as improving birds’ overall health and providing essential nutrients to support their reproductive processes. While niger seed is a more expensive birdseed option, investing in its benefits makes it worth the cost.
So whether you are interested in attracting specific bird species or supporting the health and well-being of your backyard birds, consider adding niger seed to your feeders. With this versatile seed, you’ll witness the joy and beauty of a diverse array of birds visiting your backyard.
