As you attract more backyard birds, you may find yourself purchasing larger and larger quantities of birdseed. Knowing how to store birdseed properly can ensure that your supplies are always fresh and appetizing for the birds and will make it easier for you to manage using different types of seed for different types of birdfeeders.

Birdseed Storage Problems

While sunflower seeds, cracked corn and peanuts are attractive to a wide range of backyard birds, they are also attractive to insects, rodents, raccoons and other pests.

Seed that is not stored properly can also begin to rot, creating mold and mildew that can be dangerous, even fatal, to birds. Storing birdseed in a safe, secure way can eliminate these problems.

Properly stored seed is also easier to use. Many backyard birders offer a variety of different foods for their birds and use a wide array of specialized feeders. Seed that is stored carefully and efficiently can make refilling those feeders a quick and easy task.

Tips to Store Birdseed Properly

Ideally, a birder would want to purchase only enough birdseed for a short period of time to ensure that there are no storage problems, spillage or other hazards. When birds can easily eat several pounds of seed in just a day or two, however, this is not a practical or economic way to purchase birdseed. Seed bought in bulk is often less expensive, and by storing it properly, birders can save on birdseed without risking spoilage or rodent infestations.

• Containers: Choose appropriate sized containers for your birdseed storage needs. Smaller containers are easier to move if you need to carry them to many feeders, while larger containers will hold a greater quantity of seed. Heavy duty plastic zip bags, sturdy plastic bins and galvanized metal cans are popular birdseed storage containers.
  
  

• Durability: Choose containers made from sturdy materials that will not chip, crack or break over time. If using metal containers, be sure they are galvanized and will not rust. Sturdier containers are also resistant to rodent damage.
  
  
• Lids: All storage containers should be able to seal tightly to prevent insects and rodents from accessing the seed. Watertight lids are also desirable to minimize the risk of mold. If the containers will be stored outside, consider using rope, cords or weights to keep them securely fastened against raccoons, squirrels and other animals.
  
  
• Location: Store birdseed containers in a convenient location for refilling feeders to make it an easy and efficient task. Depending on where your feeders are located, a garage, shed, patio storage box or other location may be suitable. Seed stored in a dry, shaded area will typically last longer.
  
  
• Labels: If you use several different types of birdseed for different types of feeders, label which seeds go with which feeders or choose clear or see-thru containers. This will help you refill specific feeders quickly and easily, and can be useful if other individuals also refill the feeders.

Checking for Bad Seed

The biggest clue that your birdseed supply may be unsuitable is if the birds no longer eat it. While birds will gravitate toward wild food sources such as fruits, seeds and insects in the summer and fall, there should always be some birds willing to visit your birdfeeders as part of their daily foraging. If you notice one particular type of birdseed that is going uneaten for long periods, the seed may be bad.

• Visually inspect the seed for signs of insects, including live or dead insects, larvae, webbing or other debris. Sift through the seed to discover if an infestation is present throughout the stored seed.
  
  
• Sniff the seed for hints of mold and mildew. These will be strong, musty odors that indicate unwelcome growth in the seed.
  
  
• Sift the seed for signs of clumping or dampness. Seed that is caked has been wet and is now unsuitable for birds’ consumption. Sprouting seed is another sign of unwelcome moisture.
  
  
• Check the sides and bottoms of storage containers for signs of rodent infestations, including bite or chewing marks, spilled seed, tracks, scat or nearby caches of seed.

If birdseed has been compromised through insect infestations or mildew, it must be disposed of. Throw out the seed in a bag or container out of reach of birds and other pests, and thoroughly wash, disinfect and dry the storage container before refilling it with fresh seed. If the container itself has been damaged, repair or replace it before further use.

To keep the birds safe, never use pesticides or other toxic sprays or chemicals near birdseed storage containers in an effort to eradicate pests. Instead, move the birdseed to a different storage location until the pest problem has been eliminated.

How Long Can Birdseed Last?

Properly stored, birdseed can last well over a year without becoming unsuitable for the birds. Rotate your seed stocks regularly to ensure you are always using the oldest seeds first, and buy seeds in reasonable quantities for the appetites of your backyard birds to always keep the feeders safely filled with fresh and delicious treats.