Fresh bird food is more appealing to birds and helps support a clean, healthy feeding station. Moisture, heat, insects, rodents, and long storage periods can all reduce its quality.

Colorado Springs is usually dry, but sudden rain, snow, hail, and temperature changes can introduce moisture quickly. A few simple storage and feeder-care habits will help keep your bird food fresh.

Store Bird Food in a Cool, Dry Place

Keep bird food in a clean container with a secure lid. Store it away from direct sunlight, moisture, household chemicals, insects, and rodents.

Whenever possible:

• Buy an amount your birds can use within four to six weeks.
• Keep the food in a cool, dry location.
• Use the oldest food first.
• Empty and clean the storage container before adding a new bag.
• Avoid pouring new food over older food left in the bottom.

 

Offer Only What Birds Will Eat

Fill feeders with an amount your birds can consume within a few days. Smaller amounts move through the feeder faster and are less likely to become wet or stale.

Check feeders after rain, snow, or hail. Remove damp or clumped food, make sure drainage holes are open, and allow the feeder to dry before refilling it.

Know the Signs of Spoiled Bird Food

Do not offer bird food that has:

• Mold or unusual discoloration
• A musty, sour, or rancid odor
• Dampness or hard clumps
• Rodent droppings or other contamination
• Heavy webbing or extensive insect damage

Place spoiled food in a sealed bag and dispose of it where birds and other wildlife cannot reach it.

What About Insects in Bird Food?

Because our bird foods are not treated with pesticides, grain moths, beetles, or weevils may occasionally appear, especially during warm weather. A few insects do not automatically mean the food is moldy, but inspect it carefully for moisture, odor, webbing, or other signs of deterioration.

To prevent insect problems, purchase only what you can use promptly and clean the storage container between bags. 

Fresh Food and Clean Feeders Go Together

Even properly stored food can spoil after it enters a wet or dirty feeder. Regular cleaning, good drainage, and frequent inspections are important parts of responsible backyard bird feeding.

Learn more in our Bird Seed Guide and Backyard Bird Care Guide.

Need help choosing the right bird food or storage container? Visit Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs. Our team can help you keep your backyard feeding station fresh, clean, and inviting.