In the summer, for example, sugar water attracts hummingbirds. Fruit brings northern orioles, waxwings, blue jays, and thrashers. Meal worms can lure in bluebirds. In the spring and fall, thistle seed will attract the Harris' sparrow and red-breasted nuthatch. A mixture of black sunflower and thistle attracts evening grosbeaks, red polls, and pine siskens during the winter.
Niger thistle attracts purple, house, and goldfinches all year long.
Suet will be utilized regularly by woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees. Placement of your feeder is as important as what feed you put in it. First, consider where you want to watch your birds. Pick a location that is easily accessible for filling with food and out of the wind. Also consider the mess that empty and spilled seeds will cause below the feeder.