An American Goldfinch in winter plumage. An example of Wild Birds Unlimited’s No-Mess Blend.

Don’t let the little mess from traditional seeds stop you from creating a backyard bird feeding station. “No mess” seeds and seed blends are just for you! No mess seeds have the hulls removed, so 100 percent of the no mess seed is consumed, and presto—no more mess. Sunflower hearts or chips fit into this category and several no mess blends that include hulled white millet are available. Cakes of no mess seeds are also available and may include fruit and nut fragments to help attract birds.

When cardinals, goldfinches, House Finches and other backyard favorites consume black-oil sunflower, safflower and similar seeds, they discard the seed shells. When there is a lot of activity at your feeders, this can create a pile of shells and other debris underneath your feeding station. If not cleaned regularly, the mess can become unsightly and generate mold and bacteria that might affect birds’ health. Some homeowner’s associations have been known to ban bird feeding because of this traditional mess. Fortunately, no mess seeds and blends solve this problem.

No mess seeds are a great option for deck and patio feeding stations as well. No mess seeds also provide value because you won’t be paying for unconsumed seed hulls! A few examples of no mess seeds and seed blends include Wild Birds Unlimited stores offerings of seed cylinders, no mess blends, and sunflower hearts and chips. To locate a store near you or to order online, visit https://www.wbu.com/products/seed-blends/no-mess-blends/

Wagner’s offers a no-waste blend; see their product at http://www.wagners.com/product_pages/gourmet_waste_free.html

Wild Bird Centers PatioWise blend leaves nothing behind to sweep-up! Read about this product and find a store at https://www.wildbird.com/patiowise-seed/

Article by Peter Stangel