Bon appetit birdy!

Birds, like people, have their own culinary preferences, and knowing what and how to feed them can make your yard a hub of avian activity. Tailoring your offerings to the specific tastes of your favorite birds greatly increases the chances of attracting them to your outdoor oasis. Seeds are a staple for many bird species, and there are several options to consider when creating a welcoming buffet for your feathered visitors.

1. Black Oil Sunflower Seeds:

Rich in fats and proteins, black oil sunflower seeds are beloved by a variety of birds. In Maryland, you can expect chickadees, doves, finches, goldfinches, grosbeaks, Northern Cardinals, nuthatches, Pine Siskins, titmice, and woodpeckers to flock to these seeds.

2. Common Seed Mixes:

While these mixes attract a variety of non-native birds, such as European Starlings, House Sparrows, and pigeons, they may not be the best choice for every location due to their inclusion of red milo, which only a few southwestern bird species consume.

3. Hulled Sunflower Seeds (Sunflower Hearts):

Chopped-up pieces of sunflower seeds without the shells, hulled sunflower seeds are favorites of chickadees, Common Redpolls, Dark-eyed Juncos, doves, finches, goldfinches, grosbeaks, nuthatches, Pine Siskins, titmice, and woodpeckers.

4. Nyjer (Thistle) Seeds:

Imported from African daisies, Nyjer seeds are favored by Common Redpolls, Dark-eyed Juncos, doves, finches, goldfinches, Indigo Buntings, and Pine Siskins.

5. Safflower Seeds:

Higher-end bird seed mixes often contain safflower seeds, which are enjoyed by Northern Cardinals, doves, Purple Finches, and titmice. “Feeder hogs” like grackles and starlings tend to avoid them.

6. Striped Sunflower Seeds:

Chickadees, doves, grosbeaks, Northern Cardinals, nuthatches, titmice, and woodpeckers all relish striped sunflower seeds.

7. White Proso Millet:

Most sparrows prefer millet, and it’s not just about where they eat it. Dark-eyed Juncos, doves, Indigo Buntings, and towhees also enjoy white millet.

In addition to seeds, there are other options to consider to cater to a broader range of birds:

8. Suet:

Suet cakes or fresh suet mixed with sunflower seeds can be a treat for cardinals, woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees. It’s best to offer suet in the fall and winter months, as raw suet can go rancid in the sun.

9. Fruit:

Oranges, apples, grapes, and fruit cocktails can attract various bird species to your backyard, including seed-eating birds like tanagers. Fresh fruit is essential, as many dried fruits have added sugars that are harmful to birds.

10. Mealworms:

While they may not appeal to us, mealworms are a tasty treat for many bird species. Bluebirds, in particular, benefit from mealworm supplements in the winter and early spring.

11. Nectar:

For hummingbirds, nectar is a favorite food. In Maryland, the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is the most common species. You can purchase nectar or make it at home by mixing one part sugar with four parts water, boiling it to prevent fungi or bacteria growth. Remember to change the nectar and clean the feeders every two to three days.

With these feeding options, your Maryland yard can become a haven for a diverse array of birds. So, stock up on their favorite foods, set up your feeders, and enjoy the delightful avian visitors that will soon grace your outdoor space.