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An Upside Down Thistle Bird Feeder
Thistle seed, also called Nyger is a favorite among birds and humans alike! Many folks choose to feed thistle seed as it will not germinate…leaving no sprouting grass or weeds below the feeder. Goldfinches aren’t the only birds who eat thistle seed–Pine Siskins, Juncos, Indigo Buntings and other Finches, like the House and Purple finch also feast on thistle seed.
You may have seen an upside down thistle bird feeder before, and the reason is that it only appeals to upside down feeding birds like the Goldfinch, Pine Siskin, and Chickadee. House Finches and Purple Finches will not visit this type of feeder as they are unable to peck at seed. If your plain old tube feeder is being overrun by others, and you’d prefer to attract Goldfinches, an upside down thistle bird feeder might be a good choice!
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Nest Material at Thistle Bird Feeders
Goldfinch with Nest Material
Although Goldfinches will visit thistle bird feeders all year long, summer time is when their vibrant yellow plumage is displayed. Completing two full molts per year, this is just in time for their breeding season. They are primarily monogamous, and one of the latest bird species to nest, waiting until late June or July.
You can encourage Goldfinches to nest in your yard by offering nesting material placed in close proximity to thistle bird feeders. There are several commercial nesting materials available, including the new Hummer Helper. Cotton yarns and strings, dryer lint, and pet hair are a few handy things which can be placed in a mesh bag to offer as nesting material too.
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A Thistle Feeder and Finch Feeding Tips
Many species of birds will visit your feeders, but unlike most other birds, the Goldfinches’ diet consists mainly of seed. Most finches will feed their chicks insects, while American Goldfinch chicks get the same thistle seed their parents eat. When parents return to feed chicks, it is digested thistle (or nyjer seed), enough for the whole brood. Young are fed about twice an hour, this is why Goldfinches perched at your feeder will eat seed after seed. It’s a great opportunity to view them in detail.
One key to keeping Goldfinches around is eliminating the need to compete. They are known to fly away and give up when other species crowd a thistle feeder. Inexpensive thistle sacks are a good way to offer several separate feeders, thus eliminating the competition for food.
Another important measure is to keep thistle seed fresh. Many times the seed at the bottom of the thistle feeder gets packed down and draws moisture, birds won’t eat spoiled seed. It’s important to completely dump old seed when refilling the feeder.
To enjoy Goldfinches’ vibrant yellow color in warmer months, it’s advised to keep a thistle feeder out year-round, filled with fresh seed at all times.
Birding Tips, Information & News