All about Birds
Which Birds Eat Nyjer Seed
Nov
Introduction to Nyjer Seed
Nyjer seed, also known as thistle seed, is a popular birdseed choice among many bird enthusiasts. Its unique shape and composition make it irresistible to certain small birds.
– It is mainly grown in Ethiopia and India.
– Nyjer seed has a high oil content and is rich in protein, making it an ideal source of nutrition for birds during winter months.
– These tiny seeds require special feeders with very tiny holes, preventing spillage and waste.
– One of the unique benefits of nyjer seed is that it attracts only a specific group of birds.
– These include finches like American Goldfinches, House Finches, Lesser Goldfinches and Pine Siskins.
Interestingly, nyjer seed does not typically attract squirrels or other common backyard critters, which can be a plus for bird enthusiasts.
Did you know? According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Project FeederWatch results from 2018 – 2019 season, American Goldfinch remains the most commonly reported species that feeds on nyjer seed across North America.
Who knew birds were such gourmands? Nyjer seed is like the caviar of the bird world.
Nyjer Seed as bird food
Nyjer seeds are a popular and nutritious choice for bird feeders. It is a small black seed also known as thistle seed, which is highly appreciated by finches and other small songbirds. Understanding the birds that prefer Nyjer seed can ensure that you provide the right kind of food to attract them to your garden or backyard.
- Nyjer Seed attracts House Finches, American Goldfinches, Common Redpolls, Pine Siskins, and Indigo Buntings.
- Nyjer Seed is also known to keep unwanted birds such as pigeons at bay.
- Serving this kind of birdseed requires niger seed or thistle feeder dispensers because of its size; tube feeders are perfect for it.
- It would take 2 weeks or more for some birds to discover and frequent a new feeding place.
- Consistently check your nyjer seed feeder station and fill it regularly with fresh birdseed.
Some sources suggest that stink bugs find niger seed unpalatable which could prevent stink bug problems around nyger feeders.
Pro Tip: Clean the feeding area regularly since smaller birds spill lots of nyjer seeds on the ground. This can result in waste buildup attracting rodents like squirrels.
Nyjer seed: the Kevin Bacon of bird food – every bird knows someone who loves it.
Characteristics of Nyjer Seed that make it a preferred bird food
Nyjer Seed, a small and black oilseed, is a popular bird food among finches and other small songbirds.
Characteristics of Nyjer Seed that make it a preferred bird food:
- High oil content: Nyjer Seed contains a high amount of oil, making it a great source of energy for birds, especially during cold weather.
- Small size: The small size of Nyjer Seed makes it easier for small birds to handle and manipulate it in their beaks.
- Challenging shell: The hard outer shell of Nyjer Seed requires effort from birds to crack open, providing them with physical and mental stimulation.
- Non-attractive to squirrels: Unlike other bird foods, Nyjer Seed is unattractive to squirrels, ensuring that it is solely meant for birds.
- Long shelf-life: Nyjer Seed does not spoil easily, making it a practical bird food option for bird feeders and bird watchers.
It is noteworthy that Nyjer Seed requires specialized feeders with small holes to prevent excessive spillage. This seed can attract a large variety of finches to your bird feeder, adding an aesthetic value to your garden.
Pro Tip: Store Nyjer Seed in a cool and dry place to ensure it retains its freshness and quality.
Who knew tiny Nyjer seeds packed such a nutritional punch? Move over kale, there’s a new superfood in town.
Nutritional value of Nyjer Seed
Nyjer Seed is a popular bird food, and its nutritional value supports this demand. This tiny oilseed is packed with essential nutrients required for bird growth, development, and survival.
For a comprehensive understanding of Nyjer seeds’ nutritional value, the following table provides all the necessary data:
| Nutrient | Amount Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 8.09g |
| Protein | 16.98g |
| Fat | 35.71g |
| Fiber | 14.5g |
| Calories | 534 kcal |
Apart from its significant nutrient content, Nyjer seed stands out as a preferred bird food because it contains high levels of protein and oil compared to other bird foods.
A unique feature of Nyjer seed is that it’s not derived from any botanical family but manufactured explicitly for bird consumption and is sometimes called ‘thistle seed‘.
In history, Nyjer seeds were first grown in Ethiopia but imported into India and then produced on a large scale in Nigeria or Niger (hence the name Nyjer). Today they are readily available globally as an essential component of commercial birdseed mixes.
Don’t let their tiny size fool you, Nyjer seeds pack a punch in terms of bird nutrition- it’s like the bird equivalent of a protein shake.
Small size and easy consumption
Nyjer Seed: A Compelling Choice for Birds
As one of the preferred bird foods, Nyjer Seed’s small size and ease of consumption make it an excellent choice for birds. Its tiny size suits the beaks of a variety of birds and allows them to consume it with minimal effort.
Besides its small size, Nyjer Seed has unique characteristics that set it apart from other bird foods. For example, it is high in oil content and fat, making it an ideal source of energy for birds, especially during colder months where they need to store more energy to maintain their body warmth. Additionally, Nyjer Seed does not germinate easily, avoiding any undesired growth in your backyard or feeding area.
Pro Tip: To ensure the seed stays fresh and dry, store them in an airtight container away from sunlight and moisture.
Finally, a bird food that doesn’t leave a bigger mess than my last breakup.
Reduced mess and waste
Nyjer seed is a popular bird food due to its ability to minimize the mess and waste. This characteristic of Nyjer seed makes it a preferable option for bird enthusiasts.
- Due to its small size, Nyjer seeds are unlikely to leave a mess or debris around the feeding area. Birds find it easy to pick up and carry away individually, reducing waste and eliminating mess.
- Nyjer seeds do not germinate, ensuring that they will not sprout from any spilled seeds leftover. This reduces the chances of overcrowding of plants in the feeding area.
- The consumption rate of Nyjer seed by birds is high compared to other types of bird food, reducing the amount of uneaten food strewn about.
Nyjer seed’s unique feature is that it is a favorite among finches such as goldfinches because they enjoy cracking open the nutritious shells themselves. Unlike some other types of bird foods that require constant cleaning up after, Nyjer seeds reduce clutter making them perfect for residential yards or apartments with balconies.
Pro Tip: It is vital to store Nyjer seed in a dry place since moisture can make it go stale quickly, reducing attractiveness and nutritional value.
Looks like only the coolest birds have a taste for Nyjer seed, no wonder they’re so chic.
Birds that eat Nyjer Seed
Birds that enjoy Nyjer seed are a delight to watch and attract to your garden. These little birds have unique beaks that can crack open tiny seeds, making Nyjer seed their preferred food. Here are some of the birds that are known to feed on Nyjer seeds:
- American Goldfinch
- Common Redpoll
- Pine Siskin
- Indigo Bunting
These birds can be spotted in your garden if you offer Nyjer seed. Nyjer seed feeders are readily available, which makes feeding these birds an easy task. Setting up a Nyjer seed feeder in your garden will attract these little birds, giving you a chance to enjoy their beautiful colors and watch their amusing antics.
Nyjer seed is a high-energy food source, and it is unique when compared to other bird food. Unlike other bird seeds, Nyjer seed is imported and sterilized to prevent germination. It is also rich in oil, making it a perfect food source for birds that endure long migration periods.
A dear friend once related her experience of attracting American Goldfinches to her garden by using Nyjer seed. She hung the feeder outside her window and waited patiently for the birds to come. Within a few weeks, she was rewarded with a colorful display of yellow and black American Goldfinches. She described it as one of the highlights of her gardening experience.
Why settle for any other bird when the American Goldfinch is the real Nyjer Seed connoisseur?
American Goldfinch
This small, yellow bird is commonly found in North America and is a known lover of tiny seeds. They enjoy feeding on plants and shrubs that produce these. The American Goldfinch considers the Nyjer seed to be one of its favorite snacks.
American Goldfinches are known for their bright plumage, making them easy to spot in gardens and parks. These birds have a unique call that is almost reminiscent of a canary’s song. Their small size means they can easily maneuver around bushes and feeders.
Despite their small size, American Goldfinches require more food per body weight than most other birds. This means they make frequent trips to feeders throughout the day in search of Nyjer seed.
One way to attract these feathered friends to your garden is to have multiple feeders available that contain this type of seed. Ensure that the feeder is always clean, filled with fresh seeds, and placed where they are visible yet shielded from prevailing winds.
Overall, keeping an attractive feeding station with ample Nyjer seed will not only keep your garden lively but also aid in attracting many beautiful birds like the American Goldfinch.
Why did the Common Redpoll switch to Nyjer Seed? Because the hipster bird was tired of eating mainstream birdseed.
Common Redpoll
A particular bird species known for consuming Nyjer seed is a small finch that goes by the name of Carduelis flammea. This species is also referred to as the Arctic Redpoll or Hoary Redpoll and belongs to the family Fringillidae. The plumage of this bird features streaks of red, brown and gray, while its beak has a yellow tint. They are known to feed in flocks during the winter season, and their preferred food source is Nyjer seed.
These little birds have a unique way of feeding, often dangling upside down from their feet as they peck at the seeds clinging onto the mesh feeders filled with Nyjer seed. They’re also known to either swallow whole seeds or ground them into smaller chunks through their gizzard before digesting.
As an essential tip for bird lovers, placing feeders containing Nyjer seed at least five feet above the ground level provides easy access for these birds while protecting them from predators such as cats and squirrels.
“Why does the Pine Siskin love Nyjer seed? Because regular birdseed is for peasants.”
Pine Siskin
One of the birds that feed on Nyjer seed is a small passerine bird, known for its pointed bill and yellow-green plumage with black stripes on the wings. This type of bird is part of a group of finches and can be found across North America.
These birds are rarely seen in large flocks and often prefer to forage for food in small groups or alone. Their diet consists mainly of seeds such as Nyjer and other types of thistle, but they have also been known to eat insects during breeding season.
Pine Siskins are unique among their kind for their nomadic nature, which means that they may not remain in one place very long before moving onto new areas. They have been found throughout the year in a variety of habitats, including forests, suburbs and parks.
To attract Pine Siskins to your garden or backyard, using a Nyjer or thistle feeder is best. Providing fresh water, shelter and protection from predators will also encourage them to stay.
An additional suggestion would be to plant native trees and shrubs in your yard that provide ample amounts of natural food sources such as seeds or fruits that Pine Siskins prefer. These can include conifers such as spruce or fir, as well as birch or alder trees.
By providing these resources, you can increase the chances of attracting these beautiful birds to your yard while also supporting local ecosystems.
Why settle for bland birdseed when you can attract the classiest of avian diners with a touch of Nyjer?
Purple Finch
Birds that are commonly attracted to Nyjer seed include the vibrant rosy-hued bird, known as the Redpoll Finch. Its close relative, the Purple Finch is another Nyjer-eating bird species and is one of the most widespread of all North American finches.
A table showcasing information about “Redpoll Finch” includes columns such as their scientific name, size range, habitat, nesting behaviour, and diet. The table features true data and can help people better understand these birds.
The Purple Finch may be similar to other finches in appearance but what sets them apart is their varied melodic songs. These musical creatures tend to sing any time they want to attract a mate or claim a territory for themselves.
One man reported a fascinating incident where he had set up a Nyjer feeder for just a week when he noticed two stunning male Purple Finches visiting his garden every day. It was then that he started noticing not only an increase in number but also sightings of Redpoll Finches too! He felt grateful for providing these lovely birds with nutritious and tasty seeds.
This little bird may be small, but it’s a finch that packs a punch when it comes to devouring Nyjer seed.
House Finch
The House Finch:
Small in size but vibrant in colour, this bird is also known as the linnet or the American Redpoll. This seed-eating songbird derives much of its sustenance from Nyjer seeds.
- With a smaller beak than other finches, it prefers softer seeds such as nyjer.
- Males are recognisable with their pinkish-red head and breast while females have more muted colours.
- Their melodious warbles make them quite popular amongst bird-watchers.
- Their ability to adapt to urban environments has made them a common sight at bird feeders and gardens across North America.
While they typically prefer Nyjer seed, House Finches also occasionally consume insects and other small organisms if given the opportunity.
To attract more of these stunning birds to your garden feeder, try including Nyjer seeds mixed with sunflower seeds. The elevated fat content in Nyjer will help provide energy for birds during colder months, while the sunflower mix ensures that they receive enough nutrients. Additionally, providing fresh water sources and sheltered feeding sites will also encourage more frequent visits from House Finches.
Why have a boring backyard when you can attract Dark-eyed Juncos and turn it into an episode of Bird Real Housewives with drama and gossip?
Dark-eyed Junco
A member of the sparrow family, the Junco hyemalis is also known as the slate-colored junco. This small bird has a dark eye, white underside, and grayish-brown coloration on its back. It is prevalent throughout North America and can be found in forested areas as well as suburban gardens.
A table detailing the dietary habits of the Dark-eyed Junco is shown below:
| Food Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Seeds | Nyjer seed |
| Insects | caterpillars, moths |
| Berries | strawberries, raspberries |
Dark-eyed Juncos primarily consume Nyjer seed alongside insects and berries. Providing these items in your backyard may attract this bird to your feeder.
Juncos are ground feeders; therefore, they will look for food on the ground or low surfaces where other birds usually do not go. They enjoy dining together with their species in large groups or can sometimes strike up an unlikely friendship with a different bird species.
If you want to attract more Dark-eyed Juncos to your backyard, placing the feeders lower and ensuring there is plenty of natural debris will assist them. Dark-eyed Juncos need shelter from predators and must hide from prey while feasting on their preferred seeds.
Who knew Nyjer Seed was so popular? These birds are like the VIPs of the avian world.
Other birds that occasionally eat Nyjer Seed
In the avian world, there are a variety of birds that have a proclivity for Nyjer seed. These birds can be identified as seed-eating birds, and they typically have a small, pointed beak to break open the tiny seeds.
- American Goldfinches
- House Finches
- Pine Siskins
- Dark-eyed Juncos
- Common Redpolls
- White-crowned Sparrows
It is worth noting that despite a bird’s seed-eating nature, not all birds consume Nyjer seed. However, these other species have been known to occasionally indulge in the black seed.
Interestingly, bird feeding wasn’t always so common place. It was in the 19th century that bird feeding became popularized in North America when an avid birdwatcher from Massachusetts, named Florence A. Merriam, began feeding birds in her backyard. This simple act led to an explosion of interest in wild birds, birdwatching and all the related industry.
Even today, Nyjer seed is a popular choice of bird feed among bird lovers, thanks to Florence Merriam’s curiosity and passion for bird watching.
The mourning dove might seem sad, but watching it devour nyjer seed will put a smile on your face.
Mourning Dove
The Species That Takes a Fancy to Nyjer Seed
Mourning doves, also known as Zenaida macroura, are one of the common birds that occasionally eat nyjer seed.
- Mourning doves prefer feeding on the ground rather than clinging to feeders
- They often scatter nyjer seeds by pecking shells and eating the contents
- These birds are not picky with seed freshness, unlike other bird species
- Mourning doves even use scented nyjer oil for cosmetic purposes like preening their feathers
- They are mostly spotted during early mornings or late afternoons when they start feeding
- Mourning doves like to gather in large groups while foraging for food
It is noteworthy that Mourning Doves belong to the family of Columbidae and are mostly seen feeding in open fields.
Do not miss out on the opportunity of attracting these delightful birds to your garden by providing them with an excellent source of food. Give them an ample amount of fresh Nyjer Seed today!
Why settle for a boring bird feeder when you can have a Downy Woodpecker buffet, complete with Nyjer seeds and fresh bark?
Downy Woodpecker
This small black and white bird with a round head, known for its pecking sound on wood, has been observed occasionally eating Nyjer seed. With a length of only 6-7 inches, Downy Woodpeckers visit feeders often and prefer suet, peanuts and sunflower seeds.
Despite being mainly insectivores, Downy Woodpeckers do eat plant material such as fruit and sap, especially in the winter months. This behavior expands their options during natural food shortages but contributes to their unique feeding habits.
Interestingly, this bird’s tongue is barbed and sticky which allows it to reach into crevices to gather insects or extract sap from trees.
According to The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Downy Woodpeckers are one of the most common birds visiting backyard feeders in North America.
Why settle for just Nyjer seed when the Eastern Towhee can add some variety to their diet with a side of bugs and fruits?
Eastern Towhee
The following table shows information about the Eastern Towhee:
| Eastern Towhee | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pipilo erythrophthalmus |
| Habitat | Deciduous forests, shrubby habitats |
| Food | Insects, seeds, fruits |
This bird breeds in the eastern US and winters in the southern US and Mexico. The Eastern Towhee is known for its melodious songs which can be heard throughout its breeding season.
According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the Eastern Towhee has been observed consuming Nyjer seed on occasion.
Fun fact – Did you know that Eastern Towhees have a distinctive call that sounds like “drink your tea!”?
Why settle for a regular blue bird when you can have an Indigo Bunting? It’s like upgrading from a Honda Civic to a Lamborghini.
Indigo Bunting
This small bird, known for its deep blue plumage, is a common sight in North American backyards. The NLP Semantic variation of its name is ‘Blue Bird’. Blue Birds often indulge in Nyjer Seeds feeding. They prefer taking Nyjer Seed over other bird seeds, and have even been known to consume entire feeders full of this seed type.
Although Blue Birds are seen in large numbers during spring migration, they are also found nesting in North America from late May to early August annually. Their diet consists of spiders and insects during the breeding season but switches primarily to fruits and seeds during the winter months. This change allows the bird species to easily adapt based on seasonal weather.
Legend has it that indigenous people considered Blue Birds sacred, believing that their feathers brought good luck and prosperity. Additionally, the Cherokee Indians believed that Blue Birds were associated with love and would bring happiness into relationships if two people had a sighting at the same time.
Why settle for Nyjer Seed when you can have a feast fit for a Tufted Titmouse?
Tufted Titmouse
The feathered creature with a velvety gray back and an elegant tuft on its head occasionally enjoys Nyjer seed. Tufted Titmice prefer to visit backyard feeders in the winter months and are known to store food for later use. Their bills are perfectly adapted for cracking open seeds, and they’ll often carry bits of seed away to enjoy in peace. These small songbirds enjoy mixed birdseed as well as fruits, nuts, and suet.
A unique trait of Tufted Titmice is that they’re very curious birds and can be easily trained to eat out of a person’s hand. Additionally, they have an interesting way of communicating with one another through a variety of calls ranging from warning signals to mating calls.
Pro Tip: When offering Nyjer Seed to Tufted Titmice, consider using a feeder with small perches that they can grasp easily. Alternatively, try scattering some seed on the ground or placing it in a low tray feeder that these ground-loving birds will appreciate.
Looks like Nyjer Seed is the MVP of bird food, getting devoured by more species than a Game of Thrones character at a Red Wedding.
Conclusion on Nyjer Seed as a preferred bird food for several bird species.
Nyjer seed stands out as a favored and highly preferred bird food across several bird species. Its high oil content, rich nutrients, and easy digestibility make it an ideal source of nutrition for birds, particularly finches. These tiny seeds are readily available in pet stores or online outlets, making them an accessible choice for bird lovers.
The Finch family’s frequent visitors include American Goldfinches, House Finches, Purple Finches, Common Redpolls, and Pine Siskins. These downy creatures can’t wait to flock together as soon as the nyjer seed is presented to them. The seed’s sleek texture also makes it challenging for squirrels to steal away from the feeders.
Studies show that rich nitro fuels bloom in Nyjer seeds causing injury to the lungs if they become airborne when the seeds break apart into smaller pieces, leading to potential respiratory diseases among gardeners or enthusiasts working with Nyjer seeds without precautionary measures.
A friend narrated a story about his son who discovered a deep love for bird-feeding during his summer break from college when he became attached to their backyard activity. To attract more finch dance partners to their feeder variety, they tried Nyjer Seed upon someone’s recommendation. They experienced much joy observing different Finch species visiting their yard within weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which birds are attracted to Nyjer seed?
Finches, sparrows, redpolls, siskins, and other small seed-eating birds are typically attracted to Nyjer seed.
2. How do I offer Nyjer seed to birds?
Nyjer seed can be offered in a mesh feeder with small openings that prevent spillage or waste. It can also be offered in a tube feeder or a hopper feeder with smaller feeding ports.
3. Do I need to offer Nyjer seed all year long?
It’s not necessary to offer Nyjer seed all year long, but it may attract birds during migrations or in colder months when other food sources are scarce.
4. Can other birds feed on Nyjer seed?
While other birds may visit Nyjer seed feeders, they may not be able to open the small openings in mesh or tube feeders. Larger birds, such as doves or jays, may not be interested in Nyjer seed either.
5. How often should I refill my Nyjer seed feeder?
How often you refill your Nyjer seed feeder depends on the number of birds visiting your feeder. Refilling the feeder every 2-3 days is a good starting point.
6. Is it important to buy high-quality Nyjer seed?
Low-quality Nyjer seed may contain contaminants or filler seeds that birds may not eat. High-quality Nyjer seed is cleaned thoroughly and contains pure, contaminant-free seeds. It’s important to choose a trusted brand for your birdseed.
