Thistle Seed Feeders

Thistle (Nyjer) feeders are very popular for backyard use. They are specially designed for small birds, mostly gold finches, but also pine siskins and redpolls. Finches cling to any open spot on the tube and a dozen birds might feed at once!

These feeders do not really hold thistle, but are for a tiny, black seed called Nyjer, which is often called thistle. This seed is imported from Asia and Africa. All shipments are heat sterilized to prevent germination. They are high in both calorie and oil content which attracts these birds. Since this seed is relatively expensive, it is a good idea to use feeders designed especially to hold Nyjer in order to avoid waste.