Wild birds have a diverse diet depending on their species, habitat, and the time of year. Here’s a general overview of what wild birds can eat:

1. Seeds and Grains

• Sunflower seeds (especially black oil sunflower seeds) are a favorite for many wild birds, including finches, chickadees, and sparrows.
• Millet is popular with ground-feeding birds like doves and juncos.
• Nyjer (thistle) seeds attract finches, particularly goldfinches.
• Safflower seeds can be good for attracting cardinals, chickadees, and woodpeckers.

2. Fruits

• Many birds enjoy berries, such as elderberries, holly berries, and raspberries.
• Apple slices (without seeds), grapes, and bananas are also favorites for species like robins, mockingbirds, and orioles.
• Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits can attract tanagers and other colorful birds.

3. Nuts

• Peanuts (unsalted, preferably shelled) are great for woodpeckers, blue jays, and chickadees.
• Pine nuts and walnuts are also popular with larger birds like crows and magpies.

4. Insects

• Insects like worms, caterpillars, beetles, and crickets are a vital protein source for many birds, particularly during the breeding season when birds need extra energy.
• Mealworms (live or dried) can attract robins, bluebirds, and wrens.

5. Nectar

• Hummingbirds love nectar, which can be found in flowers or provided in feeders with sugar water (about 1 part sugar to 4 parts water). Avoid using red dye in homemade nectar.

6. Suet

• Suet cakes (a mixture of animal fat, seeds, and sometimes fruit) are high-energy treats for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees, especially in winter.

7. Vegetables

• Some wild birds enjoy greens like kale, lettuce, and spinach, as well as corn or peas.
• Cooked sweet potatoes and squash are also sometimes eaten by birds like jays and robins.

8. Grains and Cereal

• Oats, rice, and cooked pasta can attract birds, especially sparrows and pigeons. Make sure grains are plain (not flavored or salted).

9. Bark and Tree Sap

• Certain species, such as woodpeckers, may peck at tree bark or feed on tree sap, especially in the spring.

10. Water

• Fresh water is essential for birds to drink and bathe in. Providing a birdbath or shallow dish of water will attract various species.

Foods Wild Birds Should Avoid:

• Salted foods (like salted peanuts or chips)
• Chocolate and caffeinated beverages (toxic to birds)
• Avocados (contain a toxin called persin)
• Onions and garlic
• Processed foods, which often contain preservatives, sugar, or artificial ingredients

Attracting Wild Birds to Your Yard:

• Providing a variety of food options will help attract a wide range of bird species.
• A bird feeder with a mix of seeds, a bird bath, and natural shrubs or trees for shelter can create an inviting habitat for wild birds.

Offering a diverse range of foods in your backyard can attract different species, making birdwatching a more enjoyable and enriching experience.