Are you a bird enthusiast in Elk River, Minnesota, looking to attract a diverse range of feathered friends to your backyard? Selecting the right bird seed can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of popular bird seeds like sunflower, peanuts, thistle, suet, and safflowers to help you create a bird-friendly haven in your local area.
Sunflower seeds are a staple in many bird feeders and for good reason. These seeds are rich in oil, providing the necessary energy for birds. In Elk River, you'll notice that sunflower seeds attract a variety of species, including cardinals, finches, and chickadees.
Black Oil Sunflower Seeds:Preferred by most birds due to their high fat content and thin shells.Striped Sunflower Seeds:While not as popular as black oil, they are still a good option and can deter some larger, less desirable birds.
Peanuts are a fantastic source of protein and fat, perfect for sustaining birds through the cold Minnesota winters. Whole peanuts in the shell are loved by blue jays and woodpeckers, while shelled peanuts are a hit with smaller birds like chickadees and nuthatches.
Note:Always ensure peanuts are unsalted and free from any additives, as salt can be harmful to birds.
If you want to attract finches to your Elk River garden, thistle seeds, also known as nyjer seeds, are your best bet. These tiny seeds are rich in oil and loved by goldfinches, house finches, and pine siskins.
Feeding Tip:Use a specialized thistle feeder to dispense these seeds efficiently and reduce waste.
Suet is a high-energy food that’s particularly valuable during the colder months. It’s made from animal fat and mixed with seeds, nuts, or dried fruits. Suet cakes can attract woodpeckers, nuthatches, and even some warblers to your Elk River backyard.
DIY Option:Consider making your own suet cakes at home by mixing melted suet with bird seed, nuts, and dried fruits, then allowing it to harden.
Safflower seeds are a great choice if you’re looking to deter squirrels and blackbirds while still attracting a variety of birds like cardinals, chickadees, and doves. These seeds have a bitter taste that squirrels typically avoid, making them a valuable addition to your bird feeding strategy.
To maximize your bird-watching experience, consider setting up multiple feeders around your Elk River yard. This approach reduces competition and allows different species to feed comfortably.
Place feeders at varying heights:This caters to different bird species and their feeding habits.Keep feeders clean:Regular cleaning prevents the spread of disease and ensures a healthy bird population.Provide fresh water:A birdbath can be a great addition, especially during the winter when natural water sources may be frozen.
For the best bird seed selection in Elk River, visit your local garden center or pet supply store. These stores often carry a variety of seeds and can offer expert advice tailored to the local bird population.
Creating a bird-friendly backyard in Elk River, Minnesota, is a rewarding endeavor that brings nature right to your doorstep. By choosing the right bird seed, such as sunflower seeds, peanuts, thistle, suet, and safflowers, you can attract a diverse range of birds and enjoy their beauty year-round. Happy bird watching!
For more tips and to purchase high-quality bird seed, visit Marties Farm Service at 345 Jackson Ave NW, Elk River MN or online at Marties Farm Service.com. Call us at 763 441 7550 for personalized advice and recommendations.
Martie's Lawn Fertilizer and Seed
Since 1982
Marties in Elk River and Monticello are your local source for lawn fertilizer and food plot fertilizer, grass seed and herbicide along with local expert advice. If feeding the birds is your thing check out our custom bird seed blends, peanuts in the shell, peanut parts, sunflower chips and sunflower seeds, finch blend and suet. Deer enthusiasts can enjoy molasses feed, local corn, deer mineral and deer habitat planning sessions. Dog and cat food as well as a full line up of livestock and chicken feed. Non Gmo in feed in the works!
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Get In Touch
Email: info@martiesfarmservice.com
Elk River
Address
Martie's Farm Services, 345 Jackson Ave NW, Elk River, MN 55330
Hours
Monday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Tuesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Friday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Saturday - 8:00am - 1:00pm
Sunday – CLOSED
Phone Number
(763) 441-7550
Monticello
Address
Martie's Farm Services, 100 Dundas Rd, Monticello, MN 55362
Hours
Monday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Tuesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Friday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Saturday - 8:00am - 3:00pm
Sunday – CLOSED
Phone Number
(763) 295-4664
Get In Touch
Fill out the form below or use the chat bubble on the bottom right of your screen and we will be happy to get in touch with you.
Email: info@martiesfarmservice.com
Elk River
Address
Martie's Farm Services, 345 Jackson Ave NW, Elk River, MN 55330
Hours
Monday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Tuesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Friday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Saturday - 8:00am - 1:00pm
Sunday – CLOSED
Phone Number
(763) 441-7550
Monticello
Address
Martie's Farm Services, 100 Dundas Rd, Monticello, MN 55362
Hours
Monday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Tuesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Friday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Saturday - 8:00am - 3:00pm
Sunday – CLOSED
Phone Number
(763) 295-4664
Store
Elk River: Martie's Farm Services, 345 Jackson Ave NW, Elk River, MN 55330
Monticello: Martie's Farm Services, 100 Dundas Rd, Monticello, MN 55362
Call
Elk River: (763) 441-7550
Monticello: (763) 295-4664
info@martiesfarmservice.com
Site
www.martiesfarmservice.com
Store
Elk River: Martie's Farm Services, 345 Jackson Ave NW, Elk River, MN 55330
Monticello: Martie's Farm Services, 100 Dundas Rd, Monticello, MN 55362
Call
Elk River: (763) 441-7550
Monticello: (763) 295-4664
info@martiesfarmservice.com
Site
www.martiesfarmservice.com
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