There are several basic feeder types hanging feeders, ground feeders, and suet feeders. Birds have high metabolic rates and body temperatures of between 101 and 112 degrees. To fuel this high metabolism, they need foods that are rich in potential energy, especially in winter. Fats and proteins are highly important. Birds select seed by shape and cleanliness and will not eat moldy seed.
Fresh seed is shiny and free of dust.
When buying birdseed, read labels carefully. Fat and protein content should be high and crude fiber low. Also, the ideal mix has a high sunflower seed content. Almost all birds will eat sunflower seeds . Sunflower seeds are highly preferred by chickadees, finches, grosbeaks, sparrows, wrens, titmice, and woodpeckers.