Purple finches are attracted to a variety of foods, but one of their favorites is black oil sunflower seeds. These seeds are high in fat and protein, making them a nutritious and energy-rich food source for the finches. The small size of the seeds also makes them easy for the finches to handle and consume.
In addition to black oil sunflower seeds, purple finches also enjoy eating white millet. This type of seed is commonly found in many birdseed mixes and is readily available at most pet stores and garden centers. White millet provides a good source of carbohydrates for the finches and is often a popular choice for attracting a variety of bird species.
Thistle seeds, also known as nyjer seeds, are another favorite food of purple finches. These tiny, black seeds come from the thistle plant and are a great source of oil and protein for the finches. Thistle seed feeders are specifically designed with small ports to accommodate the tiny size of these seeds, making it easy for the finches to access and consume them.
While seeds make up a significant portion of a purple finch’s diet, they also feed on buds, berries, and insects. During the spring and summer months, the finches may eat the buds and flowers of trees and shrubs, helping to control insect populations and aiding in pollination. In the fall and winter, they often rely more heavily on berries and other fruits to supplement their diet.
When it comes to attracting purple finches to your yard, providing a variety of food sources is key. Having a feeder stocked with black oil sunflower seeds, white millet, and thistle seeds will help to attract and satisfy these beautiful birds. It’s also important to offer fresh water for drinking and bathing, as well as providing natural vegetation and shelter for the finches to feel safe and secure while feeding.
In my own personal experience, I have found that purple finches are particularly attracted to feeders that offer a mix of different seeds and have multiple feeding ports. This allows for more finches to feed at once and reduces competition for food. Additionally, placing the feeder in a quiet and secluded area, away from potential predators, can help to make the finches feel more comfortable and encourage them to visit regularly.
Attracting purple finches to your yard is a matter of providing the right food sources, water, and habitat. By offering a variety of seeds, including black oil sunflower seeds, white millet, and thistle seeds, you can create an inviting environment that will attract these beautiful birds and provide them with the nutrition they need.