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Is my Finch Feeder Working?

10 years ago

last modified: 10 years ago

Hello, I've had my finch feeder up for a month next to another feeder in use and the seed is untouched. I was wondering if the seed is too big for the feeding holes? The bag said it would work, but it seems stuck. Can I use a knife to make the holes slightly larger? TIA

Featured Answer

User

10 years ago

Hi. You definitely have a finch feeder with finch food. I see two problems.

Some of the mix does appear to be a little large for the small openings, but that's not your biggest problem in my opinion - it's the mix that you're feeding. Thistle/Nyjer is the top choice for finches. That's the premium stuff - the "steak" part of the mix. It's also the tiny black seeds, and your mix doesn't contain much of this, leading me to believe the birds are passing it up.

I have tried mixes too for the finches but they much prefer straight Thistle/Nyjer. This stuff isn't cheap either. If you have ground feeders then I would use some of the mix you have on the ground. Lots of birds will eat the millet.

Try out a small bag of 100% Thistle/Nyjer and see if you have better luck. Remember, Thistle/Nyjer can go bad (dry out or get moldy if wet) and birds won't touch it if it goes bad. Regardless of the tiny size of Thistle/Nyjer, there is a shell on this seed, so you will see waste as the birds eat it.

Good luck :)

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Comments (6)

User
10 years ago
I forgot to add, there are 3 things you need to attract birds - food with easy access feeders, water, and a safe habitat. Some birds won't eat where they don't feel safe so if you're feeder is out in the open then that could cause some issues too.
eric580 thanked User
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eric580
Original Author
10 years ago
Thanks! I'll switch seeds. I have a birdbath fountain and some trees nearby.
User
10 years ago
Sounds like you have a great space for the birds. Let us know if the changes help.
Pat Z5or6 SEMich
10 years ago
My finches, including the Goldfinches, eat black oiled sunflower seed and safflower. I don't have nyger in any feeder. I think it's what they get used to. Actually I think if they get used to something they like, they will eat it. My neighbors have nyger feeders and I still get a lot of finches. Until the Cooper's Hawks fly over.
Pat Z5or6 SEMich
10 years ago
Actually, Eric, I can't even see the holes in your feeder. I've never seen a tube feeder without very clear-cut openings/holes/ports. Are you sure the birds can even see the holes?

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