1. Introduction
If you are searching best feed option for your backyard birds in the USA and Canada regions, you must try millet. Most of the backyard birds’ varieties are fond of these small grains.
Carbohydrate-rich, tiny round-shaped seeds from the gramineae family, popularly known as grass species called millets. Millets are so small and easy to eat for backyard birds. In winter months, millets can supply all essential energy and food nutrients to birds. Birds prefer millets cause they are easily digestible.
Types of Millet for Birds
Bird seed mixes are classified mainly into three categories. Those are:
- White Proso Millet: The Scientific name of white proso Millet is Panicum miliaceum. Most of the wild birds of North America love to eat small grains. Those are warm-season annual grass that produces a large amount of grain. Proso millet is Native to Asia and a short-lived, annual bunchgrass. Small birds like sparrows, doves, juncos, and buntings mostly like to eat white proso millet.
- Red Millet: Less preferred by many wild birds but often included in cheaper mixes.
- Spray Millet: Long stems of seeds are often given to pet birds like budgies and finches.
Advantages of Millet for Birds
Millet is a highly useful seed for both wild and pet birds.:
- High Energy: Rich in carbs and protein for sustained energy.
- Easy to Digest: Suitable for small-beaked birds.
- Attracts Diverse Species: Brings ground-feeding birds to your yard.
- Affordable & Available: Widely sold across the USA and Canada.
Which Birds Eat Millet in the USA & Canada?
Many familiar backyard birds love millet, especially those that feed on or near the ground:
- Mourning Doves
- House Sparrows
- Dark-eyed Juncos
- Indigo Buntings
- Northern Cardinals
- Native finches
How to Offer Millet to Birds
Millet is versatile and can be served in different ways:
- In Mixed Seed Feeders: Add to your standard blend for platform or hopper feeders.
- Scattered on the Ground: Perfect for doves and juncos.
- Tray Feeders: Great for easy clean-up.
- Spray Millet: Hang in cages for pet birds like budgies, canaries, and cockatiels.
Millet vs Other Bird Seeds
Millet is an excellent addition to any seed mix, but it’s good to know how it compares:
| Seed Type | Best For | Notes |
| Millet | Sparrows, doves, juncos | Great for ground feeders |
| Black Oil Sunflower | Cardinals, chickadees, finches | High-fat, all-around favorite |
| Nyjer (Thistle) | Goldfinches, siskins | Tiny seed, requires special feeders |
| Safflower | Cardinals, grosbeaks | Discourages squirrels and starlings |
Where to Buy Quality Millet
You can find millet bird seed at:
- Local garden centers
- Big box stores like Home Depot and Walmart
- Specialty bird stores
- Online (Amazon, Tractor Supply, Wild Birds Unlimited)
Is Millet Safe for Birds?
Millet is perfectly safe and healthy when fed in moderation. For pet birds, avoid overfeeding to ensure a balanced diet. Wild birds benefit from millet, especially during migration and winter.
Conclusion
Millet is one of the best, most affordable seeds you can offer to backyard birds in the USA and Canada. Its nutritional benefits, versatility, and ability to attract a wide range of species make it a must-have for any bird feeder setup.
Invite more feathered friends to your yard by adding millet to your feeder today!