Best Bird Seed of 2026

Darin Boyd Avatar
Darin Boyd
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

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Bird seed is an essential item for bird lovers who want to attract a variety of feathered friends to their backyard. This product is made up of a blend of seeds and grains that are specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of different bird species. Some popular ingredients include sunflower seeds, millet, and cracked corn. Bird seed comes in different varieties, such as no-mess blends that are designed to reduce waste and prevent unwanted growth beneath bird feeders. Additionally, some blends are formulated to attract specific types of birds, such as finches or hummingbirds. Whether you are a seasoned bird watcher or just starting out, bird seed is a must-have item for any backyard bird enthusiast.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Wagner's 53002 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food Cover #TOP 1
Wagner's 53002 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Wagner's 53003 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food Cover #TOP 2
Wagner's 53003 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder's Blend Food Seed Cover #TOP 3
Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder's Blend Food Seed
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Bird Seed

#TOP 1

Wagner's 53002 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food

53002
Wagner's 53002 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food Cover
Wagner's 53002 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food with Cherry Flavor, 10-Pound Bag

Wagner's 53002 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food with Cherry Flavor is a value-priced mix that attracts a wide variety of backyard birds. It contains general purpose seeds including sunflower, and is suitable for use in hopper or tube feeders. Customers have reported that their birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and raccoons all love it, and that it has a pleasant fruity scent. The only criticism is that it took 9 days to deliver within Canada.

What We Like
Attracts many bird species
High quality ingredients
Pleasant cherry aroma
Good value for money
Minimal waste
What We Don't Like
Strong cherry scent
Feeder empties quickly
#TOP 2

Wagner's 53003 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food

53003
Wagner's 53003 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food Cover
Wagner's 53003 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food with Cherry Flavor, 20-Pound Bag

Introducing Wagner's 53003 Farmer's Delight Wild Bird Food, a value priced mix that attracts a wide variety of backyard birds. This bird food contains general purpose seeds including sunflower, which are loved by many bird species. Whether you have a hopper or tube feeder, this bird food is suitable for both. The highest quality grains are used in blending this mix, ensuring the best nutrition for your feathered friends. Made in the USA, Wagner's Bird Food is a great choice for bird enthusiasts looking to attract and nourish a diverse range of birds in their backyard.

What We Like
Birds love it
High quality seeds
Attracts many bird species
Entertaining to watch
Fast delivery
What We Don't Like
A bit expensive
Squirrels also attracted
#TOP 3

Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder's Blend Food Seed

100539483
Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder's Blend Food Seed Cover
Kaytee Ultimate Birder's Blend Food, Wild Bird Seed For Grosbeaks, Cardinals, Nuthatches, Woodpeckers & More Outside Feeders, 10 Pound

Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder's Blend Food Seed is specially formulated for Grosbeaks, Cardinals, Nuthatches, Woodpeckers, Juncos, and other wild birds. This high-nutrition wild bird food is made with a blend of Safflower, Peanuts, Striped Sunflower, and Millet. It is compatible with hopper, gazebo, and tube style bird feeders. Providing a consistent, reliable source of high-energy seeds and blends from Kaytee will make birds frequent your feeders more often and stay longer. Made in the USA by birding enthusiasts, this bird seed is an excellent choice for bird enthusiasts.

What We Like
No waste formula
Attracts variety of birds
High quality ingredients
Little to no mess
Affordable price/value
What We Don't Like
Peanuts attract squirrels
Some seeds go uneaten

Wagner's 57075 Safflower Seed Wild Bird Food

57075
Basic
5 Pound (Pack of 1)
Wagner's 57075 Safflower Seed Wild Bird Food Cover
Wagner's 57075 Safflower Seed Wild Bird Food, 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

Wagner's Safflower Bird Food is a high-quality bird seed made in the USA. This bird food is a favorite among Cardinals and other songbirds. It is made using the highest quality grains and can be found in many gourmet mixes. One of the great advantages of this bird food is that most squirrels generally dislike it, so you can enjoy watching the beautiful songbirds without the hassle of squirrels stealing the food. The Wagner's Safflower Bird Food is perfect for attracting a variety of colorful birds to your backyard and providing them with a nutritious and delicious meal.

What We Like
Birds love the seed
Keeps squirrels away
Attracts cardinals and finches
Quality and freshness
Easy resealable packaging
What We Don't Like
Occasional packaging issues
#TOP 5

Audubon Park Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food

12231
4 Pound (Pack of 1)
Audubon Park Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food Cover
Audubon Park Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food, Cardinal Bird Seed for Outside Feeders, 4-Pound Bag

Audubon Park Cardinal Blend is a 4-pound bag of wild bird food that contains 100% sunflower and safflower seed. This bird seed is perfect for attracting cardinals, titmice, chickadees, finches, grosbeaks, and more to your hopper, tube, or platform feeders. The black oil sunflower seeds provide wholesome energy while the safflower is rich in oil and disliked by squirrels. With no fillers, this bird seed ensures that you are providing the best quality food to your feathered friends.

What We Like
Highly attractive to birds
No waste or leftover seeds
Fresh and high quality ingredients
Variety of seeds, no corn
Draws diverse bird species
What We Don't Like
Mainly attracts cardinals for some
#TOP 6

Wagner's 62004 Eastern Regional Wild Bird Food

62004
Original Version
Wagner's 62004 Eastern Regional Wild Bird Food Cover
Wagner's 62004 Eastern Regional Wild Bird Food, 20-Pound Bag

Wagner's 62004 Eastern Regional Wild Bird Food is a 20-pound bag of bird seed that attracts many beautiful perching and ground feeding Eastern songbirds. It contains White Millet, Black Oil Sunflower Seed, Cracked Corn, Milo, Striped Sunflower Seed, and Safflower Seed. Customers have reported that the mix attracts a variety of birds, including cardinals, woodpeckers, thrushes, and morning doves. However, some customers have noted that the price is a bit high compared to other bird seed mixes.

What We Like
Attracts many bird species
High-quality fresh seeds
Minimal waste and mess
Convenient resealable packaging
What We Don't Like
Squirrels may eat it too
Slightly higher price
#TOP 7

Kaytee Shelled Peanuts for Wild Birds 11 lbs

100551938
Kaytee Shelled Peanuts for Wild Birds 11 lbs Cover
Kaytee Shelled Peanuts for Cardinals, Blue Jays, Woodpeckers and Other Outside Wild Birds, 11 Pounds

The Kaytee Wild Bird Peanuts are a great choice if you want to attract a variety of birds like Cardinals, Blue Jays, and Woodpeckers to your backyard. These peanuts are packed with fat and protein, giving wild birds the energy they need, especially during colder months. You can easily use them with different types of feeders such as hopper, tube, or platform feeders, making feeding simple and flexible. Plus, this high-energy food is designed to keep birds coming back throughout the year, helping you create a lively and beautiful backyard oasis filled with feathered friends.

What We Like
Popular with birds and squirrels
Fresh and uniform peanuts
Good price value
Great winter energy source
Cleaner than unshelled peanuts
What We Don't Like
Some skins in bag
Potential skin stains on surfaces
#TOP 8

Wagner's 13008 Deluxe Wild Bird Food

13008
Original Version
Wagner's 13008 Deluxe Wild Bird Food Cover
Wagner's 13008 Deluxe Wild Bird Food, 10 lb Bag

Wagner's 13008 Deluxe Wild Bird Food is a moderately priced valued blend that attracts perching and ground birds. It contains sunflower and general purpose seeds, and is made with the highest quality grains. Customers have reported that this bird food attracts a wide variety of birds, including doves, ravens, sparrows, wax wings, and finches. The 10 lb bag is the perfect size for backyard birds.

What We Like
Attracts diverse bird species
High-quality seed blend
Versatile feeder compatibility
Reasonable price
Made in the USA
What We Don't Like
Packing could be improved
Birds finish quickly
#TOP 9

Wagner's 62006 Midwest Regional Blend Wild Bird Food

62006
Wagner's 62006 Midwest Regional Blend Wild Bird Food Cover
Wagner's 62006 Midwest Regional Blend Wild Bird Food, 20-Pound Bag

Wagner's 62006 Midwest Regional Blend Wild Bird Food is a 20-pound bag of bird seed that is designed to attract many beautiful perching and ground feeding Midwestern birds. It contains seeds that Midwest songbirds desire including sunflower and safflower, and can be fed in a tube, hopper, or platform feeders. Customers have reported that it attracts a variety of birds, squirrels, rabbits and chipmunks, and that it is a good value for the money.

What We Like
Attracts diverse bird species
High-quality seeds blend
No fillers or dust
Excellent bulk value
Convenient resealable packaging
What We Don't Like
Some seed scatter under feeder
Squirrels may also visit
#TOP 10

Wagner's 82072 Gourmet Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Food

82072
5 lb (Pack of 1)
Wagner's 82072 Gourmet Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Food Cover
Wagner's 82072 Gourmet Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Food, 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

Wagner's 82072 Gourmet Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Food is a 5-pound bag of all-natural, high-quality mix filled with the healthy proteins and fats birds crave. It contains no fillers and is created to attract both small and large beak colorful songbirds including cardinals, chickadees, jays and more. Customers have noted that the birds love it, and that it attracts a wide variety of birds to their backyard.

What We Like
Attracts diverse bird species
High-quality nuts and fruits
Convenient resealable packaging
Increases backyard bird activity
Birds love the taste
What We Don't Like
Somewhat higher price
Birds finish it quickly
Buying Guide Image

A Buyer's Guide to Bird Seed

Importance of Choosing the Right Bird Seed

When it comes to attracting and feeding wild birds, the type of bird seed you choose can make all the difference. Not only does the right seed provide essential nutrients for birds, but it can also determine which species visit your backyard.

Consider the Birds in Your Area

Before purchasing bird seed, it's important to consider the types of birds that live in your area. Different species have different dietary needs, so choosing a seed blend that caters to the birds in your region will ensure that they have access to the foods they need.

For example, if you live in an area with a large population of finches, opt for a seed blend that is high in small, fine seeds like nyjer or thistle. These tiny seeds are a favorite among finches, and they will be attracted to your feeders in droves.

On the other hand, if you live in an area with a lot of woodpeckers, suet cakes may be a better option. These dense, high-fat snacks are a favorite among woodpeckers and other insect-eating birds.

Avoid Seeds with Fillers

When shopping for bird seed, it's important to avoid blends that contain a lot of filler seeds. Fillers, like millet and cracked corn, are cheap and widely available, but they provide very little nutritional value for birds.

Birds will often pick through seed blends and discard the filler seeds, leaving them uneaten on the ground below your feeders. Not only is this wasteful, but it can also attract unwanted pests like rats and mice.

Instead, opt for seed blends that are made with a high percentage of premium seeds, like sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and peanuts. These seeds are packed with essential nutrients and fats, and they will provide the fuel birds need to thrive.

Invest in Quality

When it comes to bird seed, it's important to invest in quality. Cheap, low-grade seeds may seem like a good deal, but they often contain a lot of fillers and low-quality seeds.

In addition to providing poor nutrition for birds, cheap seed blends can also contain mold, mildew, and other harmful contaminants. This can make birds sick and even cause death, so it's important to choose a reputable brand and pay a little extra for high-quality seeds.

Conclusion

Choosing the right bird seed is an important part of attracting and feeding wild birds. By considering the birds in your area and opting for high-quality seed blends, you can provide the essential nutrients they need to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When should you not put out bird seed?

Some people choose not to feed birds in the spring and summer when there is abundant natural food available. However, it is important to consider your local wildlife, such as bears, before leaving feeders up during warmer months.

2. How often should you put bird seed out?

To prevent mold, bacteria, or bugs in the feeders, it is recommended to change the seed in a dry seed feeder every 5-7 days. Additionally, it is advisable to wash your hands after handling bird supplies and feeders.

3. Should I put out bird seed?

Bird feeding is most helpful when birds require additional energy, such as during temperature extremes, migration, and late winter or early spring when natural seed sources are scarce. In the summer, most birds do not rely heavily on bird feeders for their sustenance.

4. Can you just throw bird seed on the ground?

Yes, one simple way to feed ground-feeding birds is by tossing ground feeding mix, which usually contains plenty of millet, onto the ground. It is best to throw the seed in a visible area where you can easily observe the birds. During winter, it can be helpful to toss seed onto a cleared patio or spot in your yard.

5. Should I throw away bird seed with bugs?

If you notice any webs or larvae in your bird seed, it is advisable to immediately remove the bag or container and isolate it from the rest of your seed. If the trash is your only means of disposal, wrap the seed in a large plastic bag before throwing it away.

Editor's Notes

During our bird seed research, we found 24 bird seed products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 542,509 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bird seed list. We found that most customers choose bird seed with an average price of $18.42.

The bird seed are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bird seed, including Wagner's, Kaytee, Audubon Park. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Darin Boyd Avatar

Darin Boyd runs a small pest control business in Texas, and he is a regionally renowned pest control expert. His areas of expertise include pest control, gardening and outdoor gear. He is willing to share some practical tips on how to protect plants and vegetables from pests.

Bird Seed Comparison Table

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Brand Wagner's Wagner's Kaytee Wagner's Audubon Park Wagner's Kaytee Wagner's Wagner's Wagner's
Item Weight 10 pounds 20 pounds 10 pounds 5 pounds 4 pounds 20 pounds 11 pounds 10.01 pounds 20 pounds 5 pounds
Flavor Cherry Cherry Unflavored Mild and Nutty Black Oil Sunflower and Safflower Sunflower Seed Peanut Unflavored Unflavored Unflavored
Age Range (Description) All Life Stages All Life Stages All Life Stages All Life Stages All Life Stages All Life Stages All Life Stages All Life Stages All Life Stages All Life Stages
Item Form Seeds Grains, Seeds Seeds Seeds Seed Seed Chunk Granule, Pellet, Seeds Granule Seeds
Specific Uses For Product Immune Support Bird Feeding Nutrition Attracting Cardinals, Discouraging Squirrels Appetite Stimulation Wild Bird Feeding Outdoor Training Wild bird feeder -
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H 16.78 x 10.05 x 3.47 inches 21 x 14 x 4 inches 17.8 x 10.89 x 4.89 inches 13.43 x 11.5 x 2.68 inches - 21.88 x 13.9 x 3.45 inches 17.63 x 10.79 x 4.96 inches - 21 x 14 x 2.1 inches 13.27 x 9.45 x 3.94 inches
Item Dimensions LxWxH 16.25 x 9 x 4.5 inches 22 x 13 x 3 inches 2.5 x 11 x 19.5 inches 12.1 x 7.4 x 4.2 inches - 22 x 13 x 3 inches 2.5 x 11 x 19.5 inches - 22 x 13 x 3 inches 13.54 x 11.42 x 2.56 inches
Brand Name Wagner's Wagner's Kaytee Wagner's - Wagner's Kaytee - Wagner's Wagner's
Directions Feed birds This general purpose mix is great for attracting all birds, especially ground feeders. Great for birders who wish for an economical option. Reseal package and store in a cool dry place, preferably in a sealed container. This will protect against insect infestation that can naturally occur with any whole grain seed product.. Keep feeders filled with fresh food. Store your bird seed elevated on a shelf in a cool, dry location. Make sure that it is closed or sealed tightly in original package or in a storage container. It is important that the storage location has good air circulation and is away from direct sunlight or heat source. You should avoid storing your bird seed on a cement floor, since moisture from the floor can be transferred to the seed. - Can be fed in a tube, hopper, or platform feeders Reseal package and store in a cool dry place, preferably in a sealed container. This will protect against insect infestation that can naturally occur with any whole grain seed product.. Keep feeders filled with fresh food. Discard old food before refilling and clean feeders regularly. This product is only intended for feeding wild birds. - Open the bag of wild bird food. Pour the seed into a bird feeder. Clean the feeder regularly to maintain bird health. Place the bird food in a bird feeder
Size 10 Pound (Pack of 1) 20 Pound (Pack of 1) 10 Pound (Pack of 1) 5 Pound (Pack of 1) - 20 Pound (Pack of 1) 11 Pound (Pack of 1) - 20 Pound (Pack of 1) 5 lb (Pack of 1)
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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