We live in northern Michigan and would like to share some of the types of birdseed we use to attract certain birds to our yard. We like to change our seed types with the changing seasons to provide the best nutrition for the birds in our area. I’m sure these birds are viewed in many other states as well.

 Northern Cardinal

            These beautiful birds are a delight and always welcome at our home. We’ve had the best results with a platform type feeder. We chuck if full with a variety of sunflower seeds. Black oil, striped and of course sunflower parts all work well. In addition we add peanut parts & dried fruit to the tray. You can purchase a seed mixture from a local feed store that includes most of the items listed as well as white millet blended in.

 American Goldfinch

            The finches come by far in the widest variety of colors, not just gold. Their favorite food hands down is nyjer seed. A thistle or tube feeder works for this seed product. These little guys also enjoy fine sunflower chips, red & white finch millet. Don’t get me wrong a nice feeder stuffed with black oiled or stripe will please them as well. Many feed stores have products the include a great mixture that finch’s will love no matter what time of the year it is

            These birds don’t turn down too many free meals. Most are present year round for a snack or meal. They enjoy eating out of a tube feeder, platform or even a human hand! The variety of seed they eat is crazy! Just about any type of seed you place out will be ate. Of course they like a variety of sunflower seeds, but don’t stop there! A feeder containing different types of millet, grain products, peanut parts & dried fruit is sure to be a hit and bring them in. A standard birdseed mix will fill most of this order. It can be purchased just about anywhere, even a grocery store.

 Blue Jay

            A lot of people could care less if these birds are around the yard or not. I personally like them and think they’re gorgeous. They also do best with a platform feeder. But they do manage just fine at our tube feeders. The buffet for them includes, sunflower seed of any type. Don’t forget peanut parts, grain products, millet, safflower & dried fruit. Again if you purchase a seed mixture that includes most of these items listed you should have great results attracting the Blue Jay to your yard.

            As with most birds I’ve listed, these birds have a wide-open diet preference. With a platform feeder you should be able to welcome them into your yard year round. Just about any general seed mix will attract them. Sunflower seed is a big hit as usual, but so are many other ingredients. They will flock to the feeder for millet, peanuts, grain & safflower. Again you can purchase a general seed mixture and it will meet their needs.

 As a side note

            If you’re just starting out feeding our feathered friends try a “general wild bird food mixture”. This will start the ball rolling to attract birds, and then you can spread out from there. Do the research for your area and what your birds will require at different times of the year.

            Our area has black bears so we need to remove feeders at times to avoid destruction to them. You need to be aware of dangerous wildlife in your area as well. Bird feeders may not be the only target in the yard!

            We offer many types of seed & suet for our birds using a variety of feeders. Be sure to use the right feed for the season. Always keep feeders clean so birds stay healthy. Water should always be available for bird bathing & drinking.

Please visit our website http://www.ChimesAndBirds.net to help you get started with one of our quality bird feeders or a birdhouse for your yard.

 Good luck and enjoy the birds in your yard!