Pin It 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 is quick to prepare and has become a favorite among my backyard visitors especially during spring migration.
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 It This platter often brings my family together to watch our feathered friends enjoy their meal especially on quiet mornings.
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 N/A (designed for wild birds) Total Fat N/A Carbohydrates N/A Protein N/A
Pin It Always refresh the platter daily for the best bird experience and enjoy the colorful visitors it attracts.
Recipe FAQs
- → What seeds are best for attracting garden birds?
Black oil sunflower seeds, white millet, safflower seeds, and cracked corn are ideal for drawing a variety of songbirds due to their nutrition and appeal.
- → Why include fresh berries in the platter?
Fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, and seedless grapes provide natural sugars and hydration, adding color and dietary variety to the mix.
- → Can I add nuts to this bird platter?
Yes, unsalted and chopped peanuts are nutritious and safe to include, but avoid salted, seasoned, or chocolate-covered nuts for the birds' health.
- → How often should the seed and berry platter be refreshed?
It is best to clean and refill the platter daily to prevent mold growth and ensure the ingredients remain fresh and appealing to the birds.
- → Are dried mealworms suitable for all birds?
Dried mealworms offer extra protein and are appreciated by many insect-eating bird species, but use them optionally to suit your local bird population.
- → Where is the ideal place to position the platter?
Place the platter in a safe, elevated spot, accessible to birds but difficult for squirrels and predators to reach, ensuring a secure feeding environment.