Seed Logs
By Myrna Pearman, Mother Nature’s Naturalist and Backyard Birding Expert
Seeds logs are a great addition to any backyard bird feeding program! Created by mixing ingredients into a gelatin-based cylinder, seed logs are not only mess-free and nutritious, but they also increase observation enjoyment because—in contrast to loose seed feeders where the birds often grab a seed and fly away—seed log patrons tend to remain on the feeder as they peck at the contents.
Using the handy jute rope that comes packaged with them, Mother Nature’s seed logs are simple and quick to hang. When I set the first one out, I observed that the birds didn’t immediately realize that the logs were food, so I enticed them by smearing a small quantity of Pine Tree Farms suet (Peanut Butter) on the top and sides. Even before the suet mixture was gone, the birds were happily pecking away at the seed logs.
Seed logs, which contain just a few high-quality ingredients, provide excellent year-round nutrition.
Mother Nature’s carries two varieties:
No Mess: Roasted/unsalted peanut halves, freeze dried mealworms and gelatin
Songbird: Black oil sunflower, roasted/unsalted peanut halves, cut corn and gelatin
Both varieties are very attractive to the usual “pecking” birds: woodpeckers, nuthatches and chickadees. Nuthatches, which are so named because of their penchant for pecking, are especially fond of them. The corn in the Songbird log adds carbohydrates for quick energy during the winter while the peanuts and mealworms in the No Mess mixture are also dined on by jays and goldfinches. I have watched the birds land on the top, sides and even hang from the bottom of the log to access the seeds.
If squirrels become an issue, there are several types of metal seed log cages on the market that the logs can be placed in. These cages at least slow the squirrels down and, most importantly, prevent them from making off with the entire log!
If you would like to add some variety and interest to your backyard bird feeding program, I highly recommend trying seed logs!
Have more questions? Visit your local Buckerfield's and we'll be happy to help!
