Bird Feeding Essentials Near Double Oak

Green and orange hummingbird perched on the edge of a glass and metal hummingbird feeder. The Hummingbird is eating hummingbird nectar from the feeder. Johnson Feed Company has a plethora of options for feeding birds, so you can bring the beauty and joy of birdwatching to your backyard. Whether it’s feeders or bird seed, we have a wide range of options and supplies to suit your needs. We know how bird watching and feeding is a popular passion for many, and it’s why we are proud to offer bird feeding essentials near Double Oak, TX.

Why Feed the Birds?

Feeding and watching birds is not only a rewarding hobby but also provides significant benefits to both individuals and the ecosystem.

Supports Local Wildlife: Providing food for birds helps sustain local populations, especially during harsh weather or food shortages, contributing to biodiversity in your area.
Enhances Garden Health: Birds are natural pest controllers; feeding them can attract insect-eating species that help manage pest populations in your garden.
Supports Mental Well-being: Bird watching provides a calm and peaceful environment, helping to reduce stress and anxiety while promoting mindfulness.
Promotes Birdwatching Opportunities: Feeding birds encourages them to visit your yard, making it easier to observe and enjoy their behaviors, enhancing your birdwatching experience.

Need more reasons to feed the birds? Check out this list of reasons from the Wild Bird Feeding Institute to see how bird feeding is great for both bird and human.

Bird Feeding Essentials

Types of Feeders

Choosing the right bird feeder is essential to attract various bird species to your yard. Here are some common types of bird feeders and their ideal usage:

Tube Feeders: Tube feeders are cylindrical and typically hold seeds like sunflower or mixed birdseed. They are designed with multiple feeding ports, allowing several birds to feed at once. These feeders are best used during the fall and winter months when birds flock to areas for reliable food sources.
Platform Feeders: Platform feeders provide a flat surface for birds to perch and feed. They can accommodate a variety of foods, such as seed blends, suet, and fruit. This type of feeder is ideal for offering multiple food options and is especially effective in attracting ground-feeding birds like sparrows and juncos.
Suet Feeders: Suet feeders are designed specifically for holding suet cakes, which are high-energy food sources, especially beneficial during the cold months. These feeders attract woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees and should be used year-round to provide crucial nutrition.
Hummingbird Feeders: Hummingbird feeders are typically filled with a sugar-water solution and are specifically designed to attract these unique birds. These feeders should be used in late spring through early fall, aligning with the migration patterns of hummingbirds.
Nyjer Seed Feeders: Nyjer seed feeders are specially crafted for small seeds like thistle. These feeders usually have a tube design with tiny feed
ing holes, making them suitable for attracting finches and other small birds. They are particularly effective during the winter months when food becomes scarce.

Johnson Feed Company carries a full range of feeders sure to suit your needs. With our variety of styles from modern to traditional and sizes, you can get a bird feeder or birdhouse fitting for your home.

Choosing the Right Bird Seed

Unknown species of bird, but most likely a finch with red feathers on head and brown body perched on a green wire tube feeder. Birds have a wide range of needs and preferences including what they like to eat. Not all birds prefer the same types of seeds and treats as others which is why knowing what you want to attract is important. We stock a diverse range of premium-quality seeds from thistle (nyjer) to sunflower to hummingbird nectar and more.

These popular options are a hit for many birds such as finches, cardinals, hummingbirds, and blue jays. To keep squirrels and other foragers away, we offer repellents and products designed to keep them out of your bird’s feed.

So what are the differences in these seeds?

Sunflower Seeds: Sunflower seeds are a year-round favorite among many birds including chickadees, goldfinches, and cardinals. Offer black oil sunflower seeds during fall and winter as they are high in fat and energy, making them perfect for colder months. In spring and summer, striped sunflower seeds can be offered as they attract a slightly different variety of birds.
Thistle Seed (Nyjer Seed): Nyjer seeds are ideal for attracting finches, particularly the American Goldfinch, and should be offered from late winter through early spring when these birds are actively seeking food sources. Use tube feeders specifically designed for Nyjer seeds to prevent spillage and ensure birds have easy access.
Safflower Seeds: Safflower seeds are a great addition to your seed offerings as they attract cardinals and a variety of other birds. They are less appealing to squirrels, which can be advantageous for bird watchers looking to deter these critters. Use safflower seeds throughout the winter months for consistent visitation.
Peanuts: Peanuts, whether shelled or unshelled, attract nut-loving birds such as blue jays and woodpeckers. These can be offered year-round, particularly during the fall and winter when birds need high-energy food sources. Place peanuts in platform feeders to allow various birds to access them easily.
Hummingbird Nectar: To enjoy the company of hummingbirds, prepare a sugar-water solution as nectar. The typical ratio is four parts water to one part sugar, boiled for full dissolution, and cooled before filling the feeder. Place hummingbird feeders outside during late spring until early fall to coincide with the birds’ migration patterns.
Specialty Seed Blends: Offering specialty seed blends, which often include a combination of popular seeds like sunflower, safflower, and peanuts, can attract a wider variety of birds. These blends can be especially beneficial in late summer and early fall as birds prepare for migration and seek out diverse food options.

By effectively selecting and timing your birdseed offerings, you can create an inviting atmosphere for a diverse range of bird species throughout the year, ensuring a vibrant and lively backyard environment.

Start Feeding Today!

With a wide selection of bird seed varieties, feeders, and accessories tailored to meet the specific needs of local bird species, you can easily create a flourishing backyard environment. The knowledgeable staff at our store are always ready to assist and provide recommendations based on your birdwatching goals and the seasonal feeding habits of the birds in your area. By investing in the right products and nurturing your outdoor space, you’ll enjoy the beauty and joy that comes from attracting a diverse range of feathered friends year-round. We invite our birding friends in the Double Oak, TX area to stop by Johnson Feed Company in charming Old Town Lewisville today. You’re certain to find the bird feeding essentials you need!