Spring is the most important season for birds—and the most meaningful time to help. From hummingbird feeders and oriole buffets to bluebird houses and feeder baffles, these thoughtful spring gifts support birds during nesting, migration, and the busy months ahead.

Feeding wild birds is rewarding, but certain foods—like bread, cheap seed mixes, and processed snacks—do more harm than good. This guide explains what to avoid and what to offer instead to keep birds healthy in your backyard.

Feeding backyard birds starts with choosing the right seed. In this guide, you’ll learn which seeds attract favorite songbirds—like cardinals, chickadees, finches, and woodpeckers—and which seeds create waste, invite pests, or lead to disease. From sunflower and millet to safflower, nyjer, and peanuts, discover how each seed supports healthy bird behavior and how to keep your feeding station clean, safe, and full of life.