Choosing The Best Finch Feeders

When buying  finch feeders there are two things to consider. The first thing is the food that should be used and the the second is what types of finch feeder you like.  As for the finches themselves, they prefer thistle seeds and black oil sunflower seeds.  Thistle seeds, commonly known as nyjer, come from the country of Ethiopia and is imported to the U.S.  This type of seed is cooked so that it doesn't germinate.  The other seed, black oil sunflower, is great for finches because its shell is very thin. When shopping for this seed make sure to avoid the striped sunflower seeds because they have a thicker shell and are much harder for finches to eat.  Since sunflower seeds contain fat, they are very nutritious for birds during the winter and make for a terrific winter food with which to fill you finch feeder.

Since other small animals like squirrels love to eat bird food, it is important to find finch feeders that will deter these and other pesky critters from stealing the food.  Sometimes by adding screening around finch feeders they can be easily "squirrel-proofed".  However, there are finch feeders on the market that prove to keep animals away, but one has to be careful and remember that some animals are very determined.  Thistle seed can sometimes be purchased in a refillable mesh like sock which causes instability to small animals while climbing the finch feeders.

So Many Types of Finch Feeders

There are many kinds of finch feeders made from different materials. Those made from glass are heavier than plastic, but break more easily.  Wood and plastic are long lasting, very durable, and fairly popular with birdwatchers.  When shopping look for ones that are easy to fill and simple clean. Cleaning needs to be done weekly so seed spoilage and clumping don't occur.  Also, finch feeders that have a seed tray not only catch seeds but bird droppings as well, and this attracts pests.  To keep larger more aggressive birds away, choose finch feeders with short perches.

Finch Feeders Draw Lots of Birds

Upon purchasing your finch feeder, it is best to locate them in the yard where the birds can be viewed from the window.  Since finches will fight over food, its best to place more than one feeder in the yard to avoid any fighting.  Finch feeders are great at attracting not only finches but other colorful birds like indigo buntings and robins.  With the right seeds and the right finch feeders, bright and beautiful birds will be flying about the yard for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.