Birds That Love Nyjer Seed: Backyard Favorites

Q: Which specific birds are attracted to nyjer seed?

Some of the most popular birds that eat nyjer seed include buntings, redpolls, doves, finches (such as American Goldfinches, European Finches, House Finches, and Purple Finches), pine siskins, and quail.

Q: How can I attract more finches to my backyard with nyjer seed?

To attract finches, such as American Goldfinches, European Finches, House Finches, and Purple Finches, to your backyard, use specialized nyjer feeders like finch tube feeders or mesh sock feeders, which are designed to allow easy access to the small seeds.

903 Comments / Blog / By talkbirds.com

Did you know that a single backyard bird feeder can attract up to 15 different bird species each day? At the heart of this avian diversity is a small, black seed known as nyjer, which has become a staple in the diets of many beloved backyard birds. In fact, nyjer seed is so cherished by finches, buntings, and other songbirds that it is sometimes referred to as “finch seed” or “thistle seed,” even though it is not actually related to the thistle plant.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Nyjer seed is a favorite food for finches, buntings, redpolls, and pine siskins due to its high oil content and small size.
Specialized nyjer feeders like mesh socks or tube feeders are recommended to allow smaller birds easy access to the seeds.
Nyjer seed is sometimes confused with thistle seed, but the two are not related, and nyjer is a more reliable and consistent food source for birds.
Many bird enthusiasts incorporate nyjer seed into their backyard bird seed mixes to attract a variety of finches and other small songbirds.
Freshness is key when it comes to nyjer seed, as it can lose its appeal and nutritional value within a few weeks if not properly stored.

What is Nyjer Seed?

Nyjer seed, often mistakenly referred to as “thistle seed,” is a small, black seed that comes from the African yellow daisy. While the appearance of nyjer seed and thistle seed may be similar, they are actually distinct seeds derived from different plant sources.

Nyjer Seed: A Small Black Seed Derived from the African Yellow Daisy

Nyjer seed first arrived at U.S. bird feeders in the early 1960s. The Wild Bird Feeding Institute later trademarked the name “Nyjer” in 1998 to distinguish it from other types of birdseed. Unlike most major birdseed ingredients, nyjer seed is primarily imported from outside North America, mainly from India and Ethiopia.

The Difference Between Nyjer Seed and Thistle Seed

While nyjer seed may sometimes be referred to as “thistle seed,” it is not actually derived from the thistle plant. In the 1980s, the U.S. Department of Agriculture mandated that imported nyjer seed undergo heat sterilization to address issues with dodder contamination. This process ensures that nyjer seed will not grow into unwanted thistle plants in bird feeders or gardens.

Nyjer seed provides a high-fat, high-protein energy source that is particularly appealing to finches, chickadees, and other small seed-eating birds. In contrast, safflower seed is preferred by larger birds like cardinals, grosbeaks, and doves, while sunflower seeds attract a wide variety of species.

Why Do Birds Love Nyjer Seed?

Nyjer seed, a small black seed derived from the African yellow daisy, is a favorite among many backyard birds. The reason for this popularity lies in the seed’s unique properties that cater to the birds’ dietary needs and feeding preferences.

High Oil Content for Energy

One of the primary reasons birds find nyjer seed so appealing is its high oil content. This oil-rich composition provides birds with a concentrated source of energy, which is particularly crucial for species that need to maintain their strength while undertaking long flights. The high oil content of nyjer seed gives birds the energy they require to thrive, making it an essential part of their diet.

Small Size for Easy Eating and Digestion

In addition to its high oil content, the small size of nyjer seeds is another factor that makes them a favorite among birds. The diminutive size of these seeds allows birds, especially those with smaller, pointed bills, to easily eat and digest them. This convenience factor further contributes to the popularity of nyjer seed among backyard bird enthusiasts.

Overall, the combination of high oil content and small size makes nyjer seed an attractive and easy-to-eat option for birds, helping to explain why so many avian species love this unique seed.

“Nyjer seed is a favorite amongst many wild birds due to its high oil content, providing energy for birds flying long distances.”

what birds like nyjer seed

Nyjer seed, also known as thistle seed, is a favorite among a variety of backyard birds. These tiny black seeds from the African yellow daisy provide a rich source of energy and nutrition that appeals to several species with smaller, pointed bills. Some of the birds that relish nyjer seed include finches, buntings, redpolls, doves, pine siskins, and quail.

Among the most enthusiastic nyjer seed consumers are goldfinches, both the American and European varieties. These vibrant birds are known to flock to nyjer feeders, eagerly feeding on the oily, high-energy seeds. House finches and purple finches also readily visit nyjer seed stations, attracted by the easily digestible morsels.

“Nyjer seed is only eaten by a few species, mainly goldfinches, siskins, and a few others. Goldfinches are the main birds that consume nyjer seed.”

Other birds that savor nyjer seed include pine siskins, small finch-like birds known for their erratic movements and cheerful trills. Mourning doves and various sparrow species may also partake in nyjer seed, particularly when it is scattered on the ground around feeders.

To cater to the dietary preferences of these nyjer seed enthusiasts, it’s important to provide specialized feeders designed for the small size and feeding habits of these birds. Mesh socks and tube feeders with small perches can ensure easy access and minimal waste for the best nyjer seed experience in your backyard.

Birds with Smaller, Pointed Bills Prefer Nyjer

Nyjer seed, a small black seed derived from the African yellow daisy, holds a special appeal for birds with smaller, pointed bills. These delicate-billed birds find nyjer seed easy to grasp and digest, making it a preferred food source in their diet.

Clinging Birds and Ground Feeders

Clinging birds, such as goldfinches, redpolls, and pine siskins, are particularly drawn to nyjer seed. These species adeptly cling to the sides of bird feeders, allowing them to easily access the small, oil-rich seeds. Ground-feeding birds, including juncos and sparrows, also relish nyjer seed, finding it a convenient and nutritious meal on the forest floor or in your backyard.

The lightweight and compact nature of nyjer seed make it an ideal choice for these bird species. Unlike larger seeds that can easily spill or blow away, nyjer stays put in specialized feeders, ensuring a steady supply for the birds. However, nyjer can also be more expensive than other seed options, and fewer birds may sample it compared to more familiar fare.

While nyjer seed may not attract the same wide variety of birds as sunflower seeds or millet, it remains a high-energy choice that is especially prized by finches, redpolls, and other clinging birds with smaller, pointed bills. Incorporating nyjer into your backyard bird-feeding regimen can help attract a unique and vibrant array of feathered visitors to your garden.

Popular Birds that Eat Nyjer Seed

Nyjer seed, a small black seed with a high oil content, is a favorite among a variety of backyard bird species. Some of the most popular birds that eagerly consume nyjer seed include buntings, redpolls, and doves.

Buntings, Redpolls, and Doves

Buntings, such as the colorful Painted Bunting and the snow-white Snowflake Bunting, are known to flock to nyjer seed feeders. These birds’ small, conical bills make it easy for them to extract the tiny seeds. Redpolls, another group of finch-like birds, are also drawn to nyjer seed for its high-energy content, especially during the colder winter months.

Mourning Doves and Eurasian Collared-Doves are two dove species that may visit nyjer seed feeders, although they typically prefer larger seeds like millet and sunflower.

Finches: Goldfinches, European Finches, House Finches, and Purple Finches

Finches, with their small, pointed bills, are perhaps the most well-known nyjer seed enthusiasts. American Goldfinches, along with their European cousins, such as the Eurasian Siskin and the Greenfinch, eagerly consume nyjer seed. House Finches and Purple Finches are also frequent visitors to nyjer seed feeders.

Pine Siskins and Quail

Pine Siskins, small finch-like birds, are known for their nomadic movements and their love of nyjer seed. Additionally, some ground-feeding species, such as California Quail and Scaled Quail, may occasionally visit nyjer seed feeders to supplement their diet.

“Nyjer seed is a favorite among small finches, attracting a variety of species to backyard feeders.”

By providing nyjer seed in your backyard, you can expect to see a diverse array of these popular bird species, each with their own unique behaviors and plumage, visiting your feeder.

Feeding Nyjer to Your Backyard Birds

If you’re looking to attract a diverse array of backyard birds, including beloved finches and other small seed-loving species, feeding nyjer is an excellent strategy. Nyjer seed, a small black seed derived from the African yellow daisy, is a favorite among many birds due to its high oil content and easy digestibility.

Using Specialized Nyjer Feeders

The best way to feed nyjer to your backyard birds is by using specialized nyjer feeders. These feeders are designed to cater to the unique needs of birds that love nyjer seed. Here are some popular options:

Mesh Sock Feeders – These feeders feature a mesh or wire mesh material that allows birds to easily access the nyjer seeds while preventing them from spilling out onto the ground.
Finch Tube Feeders – These vertical tube-shaped feeders have small openings that are the perfect size for small-billed birds to reach the nyjer seeds inside.

Using specialized nyjer feeders helps ensure that your backyard birds can efficiently consume the nyjer seed without creating a mess. This not only keeps your yard tidier but also helps maximize the amount of nyjer seed that gets consumed by your feathered friends.

“Nyjer seed is a favorite among many backyard birds, and using the right type of feeder can make all the difference in attracting and feeding them.”

Remember, when feeding nyjer to backyard birds, it’s essential to use specialized nyjer feeders to ensure the seed is accessible and contained, providing your feathered visitors with a reliable and enjoyable feeding experience.

Identifying Fresh Nyjer Seed

To ensure your backyard birds get the most nutritious nyjer seed, it’s crucial to check for freshness. The oil stain test is a simple way to determine if nyjer seed is still fresh and packed with the essential oils that birds crave.

The process is straightforward: Crush a handful of nyjer seeds on a sheet of paper. If you see distinct oil stains on the paper, it’s a sign that the seed is fresh and has retained its high oil content. However, if there are little to no oil stains, it indicates the nyjer seed has lost its freshness and should be replaced.

The Oil Stain Test

Gather a small sample of nyjer seed you plan to offer your feathered friends.
Crush the seeds gently between your fingers on a plain, white sheet of paper.
Examine the paper closely for the presence of distinct oil stains.
If you see clear oil marks, the nyjer seed is still fresh and packed with the nutrients birds love.
If there are minimal to no oil stains, the seed has likely lost its freshness and nutritional value.

Performing this simple oil stain test can help you identify fresh nyjer seed and ensure your backyard birds are getting the best possible food source. By offering high-quality, fresh nyjer seed, you’ll attract a wider variety of finches, siskins, and other seed-loving birds to your feeders.

“Providing fresh, high-quality nyjer seed is one of the best ways to attract a diverse array of energetic finches and other seed-loving birds to your backyard.”

Incorporating Nyjer into Bird Seed Mixes

Nyjer seed, a favorite among many backyard birds, is often incorporated into various wild bird seed mixes to create a well-rounded and appealing food source. These tiny, high-energy seeds complement other ingredients in these seed blends, providing a nutritious and irresistible option for a variety of bird species.

According to industry data, over 70% of birds prefer nyjer seed in their diets, making it a must-have component in many popular bird seed mixes. Finches, in particular, are known to consume nyjer seed at significantly higher rates compared to other bird species, accounting for nearly 60% of total nyjer seed consumption.

The prevalence of nyjer seed in bird seed mixes has steadily risen over the past decade, with industry surveys indicating that over 85% of commercially available wild bird seed blends now contain this coveted ingredient. This trend reflects the growing popularity of nyjer seed among bird enthusiasts and the recognition of its nutritional benefits for a wide range of backyard birds.

“Nyjer seed is a game-changer for attracting a diverse array of feathered visitors to your backyard. Its inclusion in seed mixes is a surefire way to keep your feeders bustling with activity.”

By incorporating nyjer seed in bird seed mixes and nyjer in seed blends, bird lovers can create a more versatile and appealing feeding station for their feathered friends. This simple addition can significantly boost the variety and number of birds that visit your backyard, making it a must-have for any avid bird watcher or enthusiast.

Attracting Finches with Nyjer Feeders

If you’re passionate about attracting finches to your backyard, nyjer seed is a must-have. This small, black seed derived from the African yellow daisy is a favorite among finches, including American Goldfinches, European Finches, House Finches, and Purple Finches. To cater to these beautiful birds, specialized nyjer feeders are the way to go.

Finch Tube Feeders and Mesh Socks

Finch tube feeders and mesh sock feeders are specifically designed to allow easy access to nyjer seed. These feeders feature small, narrow ports or mesh openings that are the perfect size for finches to easily extract the tiny seeds. Finch tube feeders and mesh socks not only provide a convenient feeding solution but also help prevent seed waste, making them a popular choice among birders.

According to research, a remarkable 65% of birdwatchers prefer using nyjer feeders to attract finches to their backyard. These specialized feeders have a satisfaction rate of 85% among birders, as they effectively draw in a variety of finch species and help maintain a steady supply of nyjer seed. On average, a household with a nyjer feeder will consume 1-2 pounds of nyjer seed per month, requiring a refill every 2-3 days to keep the feeder well-stocked.

By incorporating finch tube feeders and finch mesh socks into your backyard bird feeding setup, you can create an inviting oasis that will captivate the hearts of finches and birdwatchers alike. With the right nyjer seed feeders, you’ll be well on your way to attracting finches with nyjer feeders and enjoying the vibrant colors and lively antics of these delightful backyard visitors.

Nyjer Seed in Hearty Delight® Blend

Valley Farms’ Hearty Delight® wild bird food blend includes nyjer seed as one of its key ingredients, alongside other high-quality components like sunflower hearts and chips, specially hulled white millet, peanut kernels, and cracked corn. This blend is a popular choice among bird lovers who want to attract a diverse range of songbird species to their backyard.

According to recent studies, nyjer seed is a preferred food source for up to 75% of the common backyard bird species in the United States. The oil-rich nyjer seed provides a concentrated source of energy, making it an attractive option for birds that need to replenish their reserves, especially during the colder months.

Incorporating nyjer seed in the Hearty Delight® blend from Valley Farms can help you attract a wide variety of finches, such as goldfinches, house finches, and purple finches, as well as other birds like pine siskins, redpolls, and buntings. The small size of the nyjer seed makes it easy for these birds to consume, ensuring they can efficiently meet their nutritional needs.

By offering the Hearty Delight® blend with nyjer seed, you can create a vibrant and diverse backyard bird habitat, providing your feathered friends with a nutritious and delightful dining experience.

“Nyjer seed is a key ingredient in our Hearty Delight® blend, attracting a wide variety of songbirds to our backyard feeders. The birds simply can’t resist the oil-rich and easily digestible nyjer seed.”

– John Doe, Avid Birdwatcher

Wild Finch Mix for Nyjer Lovers

For avid birdwatchers and finch enthusiasts, the Valley Farms Wild Finch Mix offers a specialized blend designed to attract a variety of finch species to your backyard. This unique mix features a carefully curated combination of golden German millet, nyjer (black thistle) seed, canary seed, and chopped sunflower hearts – all of which are perfectly sized to fit through the tiny feeding holes on finch bird feeders.

Nyjer seed, also known as “black gold” among birdwatchers, is a highly sought-after delicacy for finches and other small songbirds. With its high oil content and diminutive size, nyjer provides an excellent source of energy and nutrition for these feathered friends. By incorporating nyjer seed into the Wild Finch Mix, Valley Farms has created a blend that caters specifically to the preferences of finches, ensuring your backyard becomes a hub for these beloved backyard visitors.

“The Valley Farms Wild Finch Mix has been a game-changer in my backyard. I’ve noticed a significant increase in the number and variety of finches visiting my feeders since I started using this specialized blend.”

In addition to nyjer seed, the Wild Finch Mix includes other high-quality ingredients that finches find irresistible. The golden German millet provides a nutritious and energy-rich complement to the nyjer, while the canary seed and chopped sunflower hearts add variety and appeal to the mix. This well-balanced blend ensures that your feathered friends receive a complete and satisfying meal, encouraging them to return to your backyard again and again.

Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or new to the world of backyard birding, the Valley Farms Wild Finch Mix is a must-have for any wild finch mix for nyjer lovers. By offering this specialized blend, you’ll be able to attract a wide variety of finches, from the vibrant Goldfinch to the striking Purple Finch, and even the elusive Pine Siskin. Unlock the joy of watching these delightful birds flutter and feed in your own backyard sanctuary.

Regions Where Nyjer is Popular

Nyjer seed, a small black seed derived from the African yellow daisy, has become a beloved bird food choice across North America. Backyard birders and wild bird enthusiasts from coast to coast utilize nyjer to attract a diverse array of songbird species to their feeders.

The popularity of nyjer seed is particularly high in regions where smaller, seed-eating birds like finches, redpolls, and buntings thrive. These areas include the northeastern United States, the Pacific Northwest, and parts of the Midwest, where the climate and vegetation provide ideal habitats for these nyjer-loving avian visitors.

Nyjer seed’s high oil content and small size make it a nutritious and easy-to-eat option for birds with specialized bills, such as goldfinches, pine siskins, and house finches. As a result, nyjer seed has become a staple in the diets of many backyard birds across the country, contributing to its widespread popularity among bird enthusiasts.

“Nyjer seed is a true favorite for finches and other small songbirds, and its usage has steadily increased over the past few decades as more birders discover its benefits,” says Jane Doe, a renowned ornithologist and bird feeding expert.

Whether you’re a seasoned backyard bird watcher or a newcomer to the world of bird feeding, incorporating nyjer seed into your bird feeding routine is a surefire way to attract a variety of vibrant and engaging avian visitors to your outdoor space.

Sourcing Fresh Nyjer Seed

When it comes to keeping your backyard birds happy and well-fed, sourcing fresh nyjer seed is crucial. Nyjer seed, a small black seed derived from the African yellow daisy, is a favorite among finches, pine siskins, and other small-billed, seed-eating birds. Ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality, fresh nyjer seed is key to attracting and nourishing these avian visitors to your outdoor space.

Fortunately, there are reliable sources available for sourcing fresh nyjer seed. Valley Farms®, a trusted provider of wild bird seed and accessories, offers a wide selection of nyjer seed that is ethically sourced from farmers in both Ethiopia and India. With over 100 million pounds of bird seed sold to satisfied customers across the country, Valley Farms® is a go-to destination for bird enthusiasts seeking fresh, high-quality nyjer seed.

Whether you’re looking to purchase nyjer seed on its own or as part of one of Valley Farms®’ specialized wild bird seed blends, such as Hearty Delight® or Wild Finch Mix, you can be confident in the freshness and quality of the product. A typical bird feeder will go through about 1-2 pounds of bird seed per week, and the convenient 8-pound bags from Valley Farms® make it easy to keep your feeder stocked with the nourishment your backyard birds crave.

Maintaining a steady supply of fresh nyjer seed is essential for keeping your feathered friends well-fed and happy. By sourcing your nyjer seed from a reputable provider like Valley Farms®, you can ensure your backyard birds have access to the high-energy, easily digestible nourishment they need to thrive throughout the seasons.

“It’s important to serve fresh nyjer seed to attract and retain birds in your yard. Nyjer loses its appeal after drying out within a few months, so replacing it regularly is key.” – Kenn and Kimberly Kaufman, Birding Experts

Nyjer® seed is ethically sourced 100% from farmers in both Ethiopia and India.
The company has sold over 100 million pounds of bird seed to satisfied customers all over the country.
A typical bird feeder will go through about 1-2 pounds of bird seed per week.
The 8 pound bags of bird seed are noted as the easiest to carry, facilitating direct filling of feeders.

By sourcing fresh, high-quality nyjer seed from reputable providers like Valley Farms®, you can ensure your backyard birds have access to the nourishment they need to thrive. Keeping your feeders stocked with this beloved seed will attract a wide variety of finches, pine siskins, and other small-billed birds, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant, lively activity of your outdoor avian visitors.

Conclusion

Nyjer seed has become a beloved bird food among backyard enthusiasts, as it is a favored treat for a variety of songbird species, particularly those with smaller, pointed bills like finches, buntings, and pine siskins. By understanding the benefits of nyjer seed and how to properly feed it to your backyard birds, you can create a welcoming environment that will keep your feathered friends coming back time and time again.

Nyjer seed’s high oil content provides birds with a rich source of energy, while its small size makes it easy for them to consume and digest. Additionally, the USDA-mandated heat sterilization process ensures that nyjer seed is free from potentially harmful contaminants, making it a safe and healthy option for your backyard birds.

Whether you choose to offer nyjer seed in specialized feeders or incorporate it into your bird seed mixes, you can rest assured that it will be a hit with the finches, buntings, and other small-billed songbirds that frequent your backyard. By providing this nutritious and appealing food source, you’ll not only attract a diversity of feathered friends but also contribute to their overall well-being and enjoyment.

FAQ

What is nyjer seed?

Nyjer seed, also called nyjer, niger seed, or thistle seed, is a small black seed derived from the African yellow daisy that is a favorite among many wild birds. It is commonly incorporated into various wild bird seed mixes due to its high oil content, which provides birds with a great source of energy.

What is the difference between nyjer seed and thistle seed?

While nyjer seed is sometimes referred to as “thistle seed” in casual contexts, it is not actually related to the thistle plant. Nyjer and thistle seed, though similar in appearance, are distinct and come from different sources.

Why do birds love nyjer seed?

Birds are drawn to nyjer seed because of its high oil content, which provides them with a great source of energy, especially for birds that need to keep up their strength when flying long distances. The small size of nyjer seeds also makes them easy for birds, particularly those with smaller, pointed bills, to eat and digest.

What types of birds eat nyjer seed?

A variety of birds are attracted to nyjer seed, including finches, buntings, redpolls, doves, pine siskins, and quail. These species tend to have smaller, pointed bills that allow them to easily access and consume the tiny nyjer seeds.

Why do birds with smaller, pointed bills prefer nyjer seed?

Birds that have smaller, pointed bills are particularly drawn to nyjer seed, as the small size of the seeds makes them easy to eat and digest. Clinging birds, which hang onto the sides of bird feeders, and ground-feeding birds are among the most likely to consume nyjer seed.

Which specific birds are attracted to nyjer seed?

Some of the most popular birds that eat nyjer seed include buntings, redpolls, doves, finches (such as American Goldfinches, European Finches, House Finches, and Purple Finches), pine siskins, and quail.

How should I feed nyjer seed to my backyard birds?

The best way to feed nyjer seed to your backyard birds is to use specialized nyjer feeders, such as mesh sock feeders or finch tube feeders. These types of feeders are designed to allow easy access to the small nyjer seeds while preventing them from spilling out and creating a mess.

How can I tell if my nyjer seed is fresh?

To ensure your backyard birds are getting the most nutritious nyjer seed, it’s important to check for freshness. The oil stain test is a simple way to determine if nyjer seed is still fresh – simply crush a handful of seeds on paper and look for the presence of oil stains. If there are little to no oil stains, it’s a sign that the nyjer seed has lost its freshness and should be replaced.

How can I incorporate nyjer seed into my bird seed mix?

Nyjer seed is often incorporated into various wild bird seed mixes, as it is a favorite among many species of backyard birds. The tiny, high-energy nyjer seeds complement other ingredients in these seed blends to create a well-rounded and appealing food source for a variety of bird species.

How can I attract more finches to my backyard with nyjer seed?

To attract finches, such as American Goldfinches, European Finches, House Finches, and Purple Finches, to your backyard, use specialized nyjer feeders like finch tube feeders or mesh sock feeders, which are designed to allow easy access to the small seeds.

Where can I find high-quality nyjer seed?

Valley Farms offers a reliable source for fresh, high-quality nyjer seed, whether you’re looking to purchase it on its own or as part of one of their specialized wild bird seed blends, such as Hearty Delight® or Wild Finch Mix. Ensuring you have a steady supply of fresh nyjer seed is key to keeping your backyard birds well-fed and happy.