Finch Feeders

Why Finches Need Special Feeders

Finches are small, agile birds that prefer specialized feeders designed for their size and eating habits. American Goldfinches, House Finches, and Pine Siskins thrive on nyjer (thistle) seed and sunflower hearts, but regular feeders often waste expensive seed or get dominated by larger birds. Tube feeders with small perches and mesh sock feeders are purpose-built to let finches cling and feed while discouraging sparrows and starlings. Our guides compare the most popular finch feeder styles, explain which seed types attract which species, and cover the seasonal patterns that affect when goldfinches visit, including why they sometimes disappear from feeders for weeks at a time and how to bring them back.