Pin A vibrant, nutritious platter designed for garden songbirds, featuring a colorful array of seeds, nuts, and fresh berries to attract a variety of feathered friends.
This platter has always been a hit in my garden, bringing cheerful birds of many colors to visit each morning.
Ingredients
- Seeds & Grains: 1 cup black oil sunflower seeds, 1 cup white millet, 1/2 cup safflower seeds, 1/2 cup cracked corn
- Nuts: 1/2 cup unsalted, chopped peanuts (no salt, no seasoning)
- Berries & Fruit: 1/2 cup fresh blueberries, 1/2 cup fresh raspberries, 1/2 cup halved seedless grapes (red or green)
- Extras (optional): 1/4 cup dried mealworms (for protein, optional), 1/4 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Choose a large, shallow platter or tray and clean it thoroughly with hot water (no soap residue).
- Step 2:
- Spread the sunflower seeds, millet, safflower seeds, and cracked corn evenly across the platter.
- Step 3:
- Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the seeds.
- Step 4:
- Scatter the fresh berries and halved grapes evenly across the platter for color and variety.
- Step 5:
- If desired, add dried mealworms and unsweetened dried cranberries for extra nutrition.
- Step 6:
- Place the platter in a safe, elevated spot away from predators, and ensure it is accessible for birds but difficult for squirrels to reach.
- Step 7:
- Clean and refill the platter daily to maintain freshness and avoid mold growth.
Pin The whole family enjoys watching the birds flock to this colorful and healthy treat each day.
Required Tools
Large shallow platter or tray, measuring cups, knife (for halving grapes and chopping peanuts)
Allergen Information
Contains peanuts and other tree nuts. Some seeds may be processed in facilities that handle common allergens. Always check packaging if concerned about cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Calories and other nutritional information are not applicable as this is designed for wild birds only.
Pin Enjoy the lively visitors this vibrant seed and berry platter attracts each day.
Recipe Q&A
- → What seeds are best for attracting garden songbirds?
Black oil sunflower seeds, millet, safflower seeds, and cracked corn are excellent choices for attracting a wide variety of songbirds due to their high nutritional content and easy digestibility.
- → Can fresh berries be included safely in the mix?
Yes, fresh blueberries, raspberries, and halved seedless grapes add color, moisture, and natural sugars that many birds enjoy.
- → Why add unsalted peanuts to the platter?
Chopped unsalted peanuts provide healthy fats and protein without harmful salt or seasoning, making them a nutritious addition for birds.
- → Are dried mealworms necessary?
While optional, dried mealworms offer a valuable protein boost, especially during breeding seasons or colder months.
- → How often should the platter be refreshed?
Daily cleaning and refilling help maintain freshness, prevent mold growth, and keep the mix appealing and safe for visiting birds.
- → Can this mix attract unwanted wildlife?
Placing the platter in an elevated, secure spot helps reduce visits from squirrels and other unwanted animals while keeping it accessible to birds.