Finches prefer a blend of thistle, sunflower and canary seed.
To attract woodpeckers, try a mix that includes peanuts, sunflower seed, corn, dried cherries and raisins, plus some pumpkin seeds. Prepared suet cakes are a convenient alternative for birds that don't eat seeds. To attract fruit-loving birds and butterflies, place orange halves and apple slices in a platform feeder or in the branches of a tree. Birds will build nests wherever they find shelter, such as in this ivy-covered wall. Birdfeeding Tips With the exception of crows, most birds are a welcome sight to any gardener.