DEAR JOAN: Last year I bought a finch feeder and some Nyjer thistle for the goldfinches that visit my yard. I hung the feeder high up in my English holly tree where the birds were perching. Most ...

Tube feeders work well for finches, because though these little birds eat lots of food, like seeds and mealworms, some of the most reliable finch foods are nyjer and thistle.

“For example, thistle seed (also called nyjer} attracts finches primarily, such as goldfinches, siskins, and redpolls. Millet is a favorite of ground-feeding birds like doves, sparrows, and ...

FIELD GUIDE How winter can be for the birds What you’re likely to see — or not see — at your feeder during the cold.

A few simple hacks can be the difference between flying solo and having birds flock to your yard. Follow these tips to increase avian visitors in your garden.

We selected the best bird seed for a variety of feeders and species. Here is the best food for wild birds, including cardinals, blue jays, and finches.

Consider adding white or red millet, sunflower and safflower seeds, nyjer thistle seed, peanuts, oranges, jelly and peanut butter to your bird feeder.

For example, Nyjer/thistle seed is perfect for drawing goldfinches and pine siskins, while suet is an excellent, high-energy food that’s popular with woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees and others.

Some backyard birders say grackles dont like safflower seeds. A lot of nuisance birds tend to leave nyjer (thistle) alone, too.

Nyjer thistle is a favorite of finches, goldfinches, siskins, and buntings. Purchase fresh seed and use a feeder that keeps it dry.