How to Feed Wild Birds in Indianapolis
Feeding wild birds is an easy way to bring life and movement into your yard, especially in the colder months when natural food is harder to find. Here in central Indiana, the right food, feeders, and placement can make all the difference in which birds you attract and how well your setup runs. Here's a simple guide to help you get started or fine-tune what you already have:
How to Choose the Right Bird Food
Different foods bring in different birds, so a good mix will keep your feeders busy.
Black oil sunflower seed is the top choice for most backyard birds. Cardinals, chickadees, finches, nuthatches, and woodpeckers all flock to it. The thin shells are easy to crack, and the high oil content provides much-needed energy.
Millet, especially white proso millet, appeals to ground feeders like sparrows, juncos, doves, and towhees. These birds often gather under feeders where stray seeds collect.
Suet blocks are a great cold-weather food as well. They offer high energy to woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees, wrens, and even cardinals.
If squirrels are a constant problem, look for hot pepper blends. Birds cannot taste capsaicin (the compound that makes peppers hot), but squirrels definitely can.
Which Bird Feeder Is the Best?
Each feeder style attracts a different crowd.
Tube feeders are ideal for sunflower seeds and draw finches, chickadees, titmice, and nuthatches. Some styles include weight mechanisms that close if a squirrel hops on.
Suet feeders hold square suet cakes and are great for clinging birds such as woodpeckers and nuthatches.
Platform feeders are open and versatile, accommodating birds of all sizes, but they tend to need a bit more cleaning.
Hopper feeders hold more seed at a time and bring in a wide range of birds.
If squirrels are persistent, look for feeders with metal parts, cages, or weight-activated perches.
Where Should I Hang Bird Feeders?
Placement plays a big role in helping birds feel safe and keeping your setup running smoothly.
Keep feeders at least 10 feet from windows to reduce the risk of collisions.
Place feeders near shrubs or trees so birds have a quick escape route, but not so close that squirrels can jump to them.
Tube and suet feeders usually do well on poles or shepherd’s hooks with baffles.
Platform feeders can sit a little lower for birds that prefer feeding close to the ground.
Mixing different heights and locations will help attract a broader range of species.
How Do I Keep My Bird Feeder Clean?
Clean feeders are essential for bird health.
Wash feeders every 1 to 2 weeks, and more often during wet spells.
Use hot, soapy water or a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water).
Rinse well and let feeders dry completely before refilling.
Sweep up old seed and shells under feeders to prevent mold and bacteria.
How Do I Keep Squirrels from Eating All My Bird Seed?
Squirrels are determined, but you can outsmart them.
Choose hot pepper blends for seed or suet.
Use baffles on poles and hooks.
Pick feeders that close under weight or have metal guards.
Place feeders at least ten feet away from trees, fences, or railings.
A mix of strategies usually works best.
Feeding wild birds brings energy to your yard while supporting local wildlife. Stop by Dammann’s for quality bird seed, feeders, and helpful advice to keep birds coming back!