Niger, like the oil sunflower, has a high oil content, which makes it not only highly palatable, but also highly valuable to small birds who quickly use the oil as an energy source. Niger seed is imported from India and Ethiopia. Provided in a tube feeder with small openings, it will attract birds like the goldfinch, house finch, redpoll, pine siskin, indigo bunting and sparrows. Special wild finch mixes are also available which include not only Niger, but other specialty seeds for bringing the color of finches to your windows. If only seeds are provided however, an entire entourage of birds will be missed in your yard.
Many birds eat primarily fruits and berries .
These can be attracted by special bell treats which contain bits of fruits and berries in them. Another premium food is available which is designed to attract fruit eating birds such as orioles, tanagers, mockingbirds, some vireos and waxwings. These birds can be further enticed by hanging orange, apples, and banana slices near the feeding stations. Other birds are primarily insect eaters. Birds such as wrens, woodpeckers, warblers, vireos, thrushes, creepers, and blue birds all thrive on suet food .