Through research it was found that the black oil sunflower seed and white proso millet are generally attractive to the most species of birds. Small grain is favored by the ground-feeding juncos and sparrows, while the mockingbirds, thrushes and waxwings enjoy dried or fresh fruit. Remember, cleanliness is important at a feeding station. If you choose one mounted on a pole, place an inverted plastic flower pot a little below the feeder to discourage squirrels from robbing the food. If snow covers the ground, add 2 ounces of coarse sand to each pound of birdseed, or provide it at another location.
Birds depend on particles of grit, in the gizzard, to grind up hard seeds.
The high energy mainstay of any bird feeding program is a source of fat, which is a popular and necessary winter food. Beef or mutton fat is least expensive and most readily available. If you continue feeding the year round, hang suet in a mesh bag only, because a metal holder, in freezing weather, can injure the bird s tongue and feet. Pour into a milk carton and cool, then cut into cakes. Feeders should be up by October, and don t forget that once feeding has begun, it is important NOT to STOP until spring, or at least through March, since by that time much of the winter food supply is gone.