nyjer vs thistle

Nyjer vs Thistle Seed: They’re Not the Same (And It Matters)

by
Nyjer Vs Thistle Seed

The seed sold as “thistle” for finches is not true thistle seed. It comes from Guizotia abyssinica, an African member of the daisy family whose common name is niger; Nyjer is the trademarked spelling widely used by the North American bird-feeding industry. Imported niger seed must receive an approved phytosanitary treatment before U.S. entry, commonly … Read more

Nyjer Bird Seed: Why Finches Ignore It and How Fresh Seed Changes Everything

by
Nyjer Bird Seed

Nyjer is a useful specialty seed for attracting small finches, but it needs more freshness management than many beginners expect. If birds suddenly stop using a nyjer feeder, stale or wet seed is one possibility, not the only explanation. Local finch numbers, season, natural food, feeder condition, and placement can all matter too. The practical … Read more