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!