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Healthy Snack for Birds
Anyone want a peanut? More than just a favorite quote from the classic "Princess Bride", there are several feathered aviators that would love to be asked that question. Among them are blue jays, woodpeckers, cardinals, titmice, and nuthatches.
Why peanuts?
Remember that peanuts are not true nuts, they are a legume and a rich source of protein, oil, fats, and other nutrients that birds benefit from. Birds must eat as much high-energy food as they can find especially during the winter, and peanuts provide that.
Shelled vs. In Shell
Whole nuts will attract larger birds whether they are shelled or not. Small birds often times will take the shelled nut meats and pound them into smaller, bite-size pieces.
Peanut Feeders
There are several different types of peanut feeders. Mesh feeders hold whole shelled peanuts and make the birds work for each one. The wire mesh requires the birds to cling to it in order to get at the peanuts inside. This makes it difficult for non-clinging birds like doves and sparrows to eat them. Whole unshelled peanuts can be offered on platform or ground feeders or in special feeders.
If you are offering peanuts for the first time, consider a popoutz feeder (shown above). Made of 100% recyclable polypropylene plastic, popoutz bird feeders come in 6 fun colors and are easy and fun to use.
What about the squirrels?
Squirrels also love peanuts and will quickly raid the supply if allowed to do so. Hanging baffles will keep squirrels away and keep the peanuts dry. We especially like the Sky Cafe Squirrel Baffle. A squirrel-proof feeder like the Brome's Mini Squirrel Buster feeder works great, too!
Tip
Peanuts are highly susceptible to mold and mildew. To avoid wasting them, only put out as many peanuts as the birds will eat in a day or two.
bgc
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