Five menu items to offer:Black oil sunflower seed is a surefire favorite, attracting more than 30 species of birds, including cardinals, finches and chickadees.Nyger seeds pull in scores of finches, as well as pine siskins and juncos. The 40 percent oil content provides needed energy during cold weather.Suet, a rendered beef fat, is an excellent wintertime nutritional alternative for insect eaters, such as warblers, jays, woodpeckers and nuthatches.White millet appeals to cardinals and finches as well as to less common guests like quail, bobwhite and tanagers. (Millet left on the ground may sprout come spring.)Seed mixes come premade, or create combos like peanuts with safflower and sunflower seeds. For deck or patio areas, try no-mess blends that lack hulls.
