Buying bird food in bulk is the most cost-effective option, and while it can last up to a year, proper storage is essential to keep it fresh. If bird food goes bad, it not only becomes unappealing to birds, but it could also pose a health risk, potentially being harmful or even fatal.
Proper storage of bird food is crucial to ensure its freshness, nutritional value, and safety for the birds that visit your garden. Whether you’re feeding your feathered friends sunflower seeds, suet pellets, or peanuts, the way you store your bird food can make a significant difference in how long it lasts and how well it is received by the birds.
Different types of bird food have varying shelf lives depending on their ingredients and moisture content. For example:
Sunflower seeds and sunflower hearts typically last around 3 months if stored properly.
Peanuts, especially when whole and in their shells, can last for several months, but crushed or shelled peanuts may spoil quicker due to their high oil content.
Suet pellets and cakes are generally safe for a few months but should be stored in cool, dry places to prevent them from melting or going rancid.
Mixed bird seed can last up to 12 months if kept properly, although certain seeds may have shorter lifespans.
If your bird food starts to smell rancid or shows signs of mold, it’s best to dispose of it as these conditions can pose health risks to birds.
Proper storage plays a significant role in extending the shelf life of your bird food and protecting it from environmental factors such as humidity, pests, and direct sunlight. Here are key factors to consider when storing bird food:
Bird food should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Heat and moisture can cause bird food to spoil quickly. A temperature range of 4-10°C is ideal for most types of bird food.
Use airtight containers or resealable bags to store bird food. This prevents moisture from getting in, which could lead to mould or spoilage. Containers also help protect the food from pests like rodents and insects. Clear, plastic containers are a good option, but make sure they are opaque enough to block light from degrading the food. If you used metal containers, they should be galvanised, so they don’t rust.
While plastic bags are convenient for short-term storage, they are not ideal for long-term use. If you purchase bird food in bulk, it’s best to transfer it to more durable, airtight containers. If left in plastic bags, bird food is more prone to getting damp or stale.
Regularly rotate your bird food stocks to ensure the oldest seed is used first. Purchase food in quantities that are appropriate for your birds’ consumption to avoid waste.
Freezing bird food is an excellent way to prolong its freshness, especially if you buy in bulk. Storing seeds, suet, and nuts in the freezer helps preserve their oils, keeping them fresh for a much longer time.
Divide the bird food into smaller portions before freezing so you can take out just what you need. This reduces the number of times you have to open the container, helping to maintain its freshness.
Ensure the bags or containers you use are freezer-safe. Zip-lock bags are a great option, as they allow you to squeeze out excess air, preventing freezer burn.
When you’re ready to use the food, simply remove the portion you need from the freezer and allow it to thaw in a cool place. Avoid microwaving or heating bird food, as this can alter its nutritional content.
Pests, such as rodents, insects, and squirrels, can quickly become a problem if bird food is left out inappropriately.
As mentioned, airtight containers are a must. They not only protect the food from moisture but also keep pests out.
Store bird food off the floor, especially if you’re using outdoor sheds or garages, as this can help prevent rodents from getting to it. If you’re storing bird food outdoors, use rodent-proof containers or secure storage bins with locking lids.
Never use pesticides or toxic sprays near bird food containers to control pests, as these chemicals can be harmful to birds. Instead, relocate the bird food to a different area until the pest issue is resolved.
If the birds in your garden stop eating the food you’ve put out, it may indicate that the food has spoiled. Inspect the bird food for visible signs of insects, such as dead bodies, larvae, webs, or other debris.
A strong, musty smell suggests mould or mildew. Sift the seed and remove any large clumps of seed that have become damp. If the seed starts to sprout, it’s a clear sign that it has absorbed moisture and should be thrown away.
After disposing of any unusable seed, be sure to thoroughly wash and disinfect the container before refilling it. Also, check nearby food to ensure it hasn’t been affected.
Store sunflower seeds and sunflower hearts in airtight containers to prevent exposure to air and moisture. During hot weather, consider freezing them to extend their shelf life.
Always buy peanuts from a reputable supplier to ensure they are aflatoxin-free, as peanuts are prone to mould growth. Whole peanuts should be stored in sealed containers in a cool, dry place.
Suet cakes and pellets can melt in warm weather, so store them in a cool, dry place or the fridge.
Mixed bird seed can be prone to weevils and other pests if left out for too long. Store it in tightly sealed containers and use it within six months for the best quality.
Storing bird food correctly is essential to keeping it fresh, nutritious, and safe for the birds in your garden. By using airtight containers, storing in cool, dry places, and managing waste, you can ensure that the bird food you provide remains healthy for your garden birds.
