Bird seed is one of the most popular types of seed given to birds. However, there are some who say that pellets are better because they are more nutritious and longer lasting.
It is not always easy to find time for birdfeeders in urban areas, but pellets require no work in planting and tending to the feeder throughout the year.
People have also reported that it is easier for birds to eat pellets than seed, which makes them more likely to visit a feeder.
Pellets can last up to two years when kept dry, but seed can only last a few weeks before it becomes stale or moldy.
Unwanted seed and uneaten food spillage from a feeder can quickly become a nuisance for any yard or municipality where there are lots of birds.
When birds eat seeds, they have to hunt and find them. They also have to digest the seeds which can take hours of time. Pellets, on the other hand, are easier for birds to find and digest compared to seeds due to their shape and size.
Pellets can be helpful for birds that don’t have enough space in their stomachs because they are easy to break down into smaller pieces so that more nutrients can be absorbed by the bird.
Overall, pellets tend to benefit bird’s health over seed because there is less chance for them getting sick from eating it.
Seeds vs. Pellets – Which One is More Beneficial to Birds?
The taste of seeds is a must for birds to consume. There is no doubt that birds love to eat the seed. It is the source of their vital nutrients that help them stay healthy and strong throughout the day.
Birds, though, are not just one species; they come in wide varieties and differences. This includes their needs and how they should eat their food based on their size, age, gender and some other factors.
The issue with seed as food for birds arises when it’s not consumed quickly enough by the bird due to its low nutrient density or when it sticks to the bird’s gizzard rather than passing through smoothly. Pellets are more efficient in terms of nutrient density as well as digestion because they are designed specifically for birds’ digestive system which aids in better digestive health.
One thing that they should have in common is the amount of calories they provide. Seeds are packed with high-calorie nutrients, so they would be the best choice for birds to consume. Pellets, on the other hand, contain flaxseed and a lot of other nutrients which help in promoting growth and healthy feathers.
Some people believe that birds should only be eating pellets because they are more nutritious than seeds. However, there are also some people who believe that birds should be eating seeds because it is better for the bird population as a whole to have plenty of seed available for them in their natural habitat.
The debate between pellet or seed is interesting but ultimately comes down to what you think the best for the bird population as a whole is.
When to Give Your Bird Seed or Pellets
Birds are very vulnerable to the weather. So, making sure they are well fed is important. It’s best to give them seeds or pellets during the time of their need.
Birds should be fed according to the seasons: humans and birds should separate during winter months, and birds should be given food for sustenance for spring and summer months.
The struggle of being a bird owner is to know what to feed your feathered friends. From the time we bring in our first bird, it is up to us to decide what type of diet we want for our birds.
There are three things you should keep in mind before deciding on giving your birds seeds or pellets: their activity level, weather, and their age. If you want your bird to be able to use its wings and fly, then you should give them seeds and if you want them to stay close to the ground then they will need pellets. Some birds can also eat both depending on their preference.
In order to maintain a supply of natural food for birds, it is important to find the right time to give them their seeds or pellets. Giving your birds anything other than food at these times could result in breeding problems.
But there are some days when bird feeders are empty and it is not worth the effort of filling them up. Here’s when you should give your bird seed or pellets:
1) When your birds feathers are not looking healthy, feed them with right amount of seed or pellets.
2) When the weather has changed drastically.
3) It’s best not to feed animals in captivity during breeding season.
4) When you’re going on vacation.
Most birds can find the food they need without any problems. However, some species require a little extra help in finding the right type of food to eat. For example, migratory birds may require special foods for long flights.
Giving birds seeds or pellets when you’re not home is also an easy way to let them go back to the wild untouched.
How to Properly Store Your Bird Seed or Pellets
It is crucial to store your bird seed or pellets properly, otherwise you are risking the longevity of your bird feeders.
According to a study, “The shelf life of seed varies by species and variety. Most commonly, it ranges from 3-6 months for sunflower seeds and up to 12 months for niger.”
Birds need their food to stay fresh and healthy. It is important to store your bird seed properly in order to make it last as long as possible.
Some tips for storing bird seed:
● Dry seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place. If you live in a humid area, you may want to keep the bag sealed tightly so they don’t go bad too quickly.
● Put the food in air-tight containers that are free from cracks or openings. Those with holes or loose seals can let pests and rodents into your bird food.
● Use smaller containers for smaller amounts of food because larger containers tend to get warm and moisture rises, causing the seeds inside to rot faster than normal.
Bird seed or pellets are essential to keep in your home. They contain a variety of nutrients that can help your birds enjoy their habitat. But when you store them, you should be careful to make sure they last a long time so that the birds have access to it.
If you are not sure how long it will last, there is no need to panic. You should know that by following these simple guidelines, you can ensure your bird seed or pellets have a longer shelf life and stay in good condition.
