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Welcome to SS Seed Co.
S.S. Seed Co is a family-run business with over 40 years of expertise in producing premium pigeon corn, wild bird seed, and small bird seed mixtures. Steve and Anne Swainston operate the company, which sources the finest grains from around the world and blends each batch at its purpose-built mill in County Durham.
With a storage capacity exceeding 1,000 tonnes and the ability to produce 100 tonnes daily, S.S. Seed Co ensures consistent, high-quality nutrition for your birds. As UK pioneers, they offer a direct-to-customer service, cutting out wholesalers and providing delivery across mainland UK.
Trusted by bird enthusiasts nationwide, S.S. Seed Co delivers exceptional feed and value for both pigeons and wild birds.
Tradition meets Innovation
Welcome to S.S. Seed Co., where tradition meets innovation. As a family-run company, we take pride in producing over 50 top-quality pigeon food mixtures, all crafted with the finest corn. Our operations are based in a purpose-built grain handling plant located in County Durham, exemplifying our commitment to precision and excellence.
Breaking new ground, we are the pioneers in the UK, offering our products directly to customers without intermediaries. Now, you can conveniently order directly from the mill and have our premium pigeon feeds delivered to your door anywhere in the mainland UK. Experience the difference with S.S. Seed Co. as we redefine accessibility and quality in the world of pigeon nutrition.
Storage Facility
Our expansive warehouse facility is a testament to our commitment to providing a wide range of high-quality bird food. With over 500 metric tonnes of stock, we proudly offer a vast selection of premium nutrition to cater to the diverse needs of both wild birds and pigeons. From seasoned pigeon enthusiasts to those nurturing a garden full of wild bird activity, our well-stocked inventory ensures you’ll find the perfect feed for every feathered companion.
Explore our warehouse, where quality meets abundance, and give your birds the exceptional nourishment they deserve—whether they’re in the skies above or in the comfort of your care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tips, Tricks & Advice
Welcome to a treasure trove of valuable insights!
You’ll find expert tips to keep your garden birds happy and healthy. Whether it’s safe storage, choosing high-quality seeds, or adjusting feeding routines for the seasons, we’ve got all the answers you need.
What type of bird food should I use
When choosing bird food, there are five main types of bird food, each catering to different preferences and nutritional needs:
- Straight Seeds: Sunflower hearts are a favourite among birds. They offer a rich and nutritious snack and are a perfect treat for birds with a refined taste.
- Seed Mixes: A delightful blend of various seeds, often enhanced with additional treats like suet pellets and chopped peanuts. These mixes provide a broad range of nutrients, appealing to various birds.
- Peanuts: Whole or sliced peanuts are packed with energy and make an irresistible snack for active garden visitors. Their high-fat content provides essential sustenance, especially during colder months.
- Suet Creations: Fat balls, suet pellets, and suet blocks offer a high-energy feast that’s especially valuable in winter when birds need extra energy to stay warm.
- Live Temptations: Mealworms are a natural, protein-rich food that birds find exciting and irresistible. Offering live food can attract a wide variety of species to your garden.
By offering a mix of these different food types, you cater to a broad spectrum of bird species, each with unique feeding habits. But the secret to successful bird feeding isn’t just the food – it’s how you present it. The choice of feeders is just as important as the food itself, as different species prefer different types of feeding stations.
With a diverse array of food and feeders, you’ll attract everything from lively finches to graceful thrushes. Your garden will soon become a haven for our avian companions, where you can enjoy the beautiful rhythm of nature right outside your window.🕊️🌿
When to feed your garden's wild birds
As the seasons change, a question arises: when is the best time to feed the birds in your garden?
Winter’s Embrace: Winter holds a special place in the calendar. This is when Mother Nature’s larder is at its emptiest. Natural food becomes scarcer as temperatures drop and our feathered friends seek help. Species like the Blackbird and Chaffinch and migrating visitors from northern Europe find warmth and nourishment in your offerings.
Year-Round Sustenance: Feeding birds is not just for winter. Throughout the year, birds face challenges finding food, especially with the decline of invertebrates, such as flying insects, which many songbirds rely on. Changes in farming practices, pollution, and climate shifts have reduced these natural food sources. As a result, your garden becomes an important source of sustenance all year long.
Urban vs. Rural: Where you live also plays a role. Urban areas and regions with intensive farming often have limited natural food for birds. In contrast, rural areas with varied habitats and native woodlands provide more food sources for our feathered visitors.🕊️🌿
Foods to skip in your feeding routine
When extending a generous hand to our avian companions, knowing what to avoid is as crucial as knowing what to offer. Steering clear of certain foods ensures the health and well-being of our winged friends:
- Salty Pitfalls: Beware of foods laden with salt. High-salt content can be detrimental to a bird’s health and disrupt its delicate balance.
- Cooked Meat Fat and Oils: While our culinary indulgences are tempting, it’s best to keep away cooked meat fat and oils. The remnants of roasts, chickens, or festive turkeys might seem like treats, but they can have dire consequences for birds, even leading to their demise.
- Liquid Fat Concerns: Fat, when it’s in liquid form on food, isn’t just about consumption. It can have a negative impact on a bird’s plumage, hampering its ability to take flight.
- Bread Beware: Surprisingly, even bread – a staple in many households – isn’t suitable for our feathered friends. It lacks the nutritional benefits birds need for their well-being.
As you create a sanctuary for these enchanting creatures, remember that your offerings contribute to their vitality and survival.
By avoiding these harmful foods, you ensure a safe and nurturing environment, where the beauty of nature thrives without compromise. Let’s elevate our understanding and embrace the responsibility of safeguarding our avian guests. 🕊️🌿
When to refresh your bird feeder's
How frequently should we replenish the food in our bird feeders? The answer lies within the subtleties of nature’s cues:
Timing Matters: Generally, there’s no need to fuss over the feeder’s food unless it shows signs of age, deterioration, or mould. If you find the food untouched, it’s an indicator that birds have their reasons for steering clear.
Quality Assurance: The primary culprit behind uneaten food is its quality. Opt for superior-quality offerings that resonate with birds’ tastes and nutritional needs. When you choose high-caliber fare, you’re more likely to witness birds delighting in every morsel.
Location, Location, Location: Sometimes, it’s not about the food; it’s about the setting. Birds can be particular about their dining surroundings. If your feeder is placed too close to a bustling thoroughfare, it might give our avian friends pause. Opt for a serene spot that invites birds without distractions.
Mould and Deterioration: Old, deteriorated food or anything showing signs of mould should be promptly removed. Mould can harm both birds and their dining experience, so keeping a watchful eye is essential.
In the delicate balance of bird feeding, the secret lies in your understanding of their needs. Listen to nature’s whispers – untouched food speaks volumes about preferences and conditions.
Enhance the experience by curating a nourishing feast and providing a peaceful setting. As you care for their well-being, your garden transforms into a haven of avian camaraderie and connection. 🕊️🌿
How can I store bird food to keep it fresh and safe?
First and foremost, choose a dry, cool location to store your bird food. Avoid areas prone to moisture, such as basements or outdoor spaces exposed to rain, as dampness can lead to spoilage or mould growth.
Using airtight containers is highly recommended. Transfer bird food to sturdy plastic, metal, or glass containers. Airtight lids help keep out humidity, pests like rodents and insects, and other contaminants, preserving the food’s freshness. Additionally, containers should be stored in shaded areas, away from direct sunlight, which can heat the food and promote spoilage.
Regular cleaning of storage containers is another important step. Before refilling them, clean the containers with warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and ensure they are completely dry to prevent contamination. To maintain freshness, only buy bird food in quantities you can use within a few weeks, as larger stockpiles may lose nutritional value or spoil over time.
Before feeding birds, inspect the food for signs of spoilage, such as unusual odours, mould, clumping, or insect activity. If you notice any of these, discard the food immediately to prevent bird harm. Label your containers with the purchase date and follow a “first in, first out” system to ensure older stock is used first.
Keep the storage area clean to prevent pests, and consider using natural deterrents like bay leaves or diatomaceous earth near the containers. Different types of bird food also require specific storage considerations. Seeds should be kept dry to avoid mould. Prepared nectar should be stored in the refrigerator, and feeders should be cleaned frequently. Suet cakes are best stored in the refrigerator or freezer, particularly during warm weather, to prevent them from melting or becoming rancid. 🕊️🌿
What are the most nutritious seeds for wild birds?
One of the best options is black-oil sunflower seeds, which are rich in fats, protein, and calories. These seeds are particularly beneficial when birds need extra energy to stay warm during colder months. Due to their thin shells, they are easy to crack and are loved by many species, including finches, cardinals, and chickadees.
Another excellent choice is nyjer (thistle) seeds, which are packed with healthy fats and protein. Their size makes them ideal for smaller birds such as goldfinches and siskins. Nyjer seeds are less likely to attract larger birds or pests, making them a clean and efficient feeding option.
Safflower seeds are another nutritious option, rich in fats, fibre, and protein. Cardinals, titmice, and grosbeaks favour these seeds. Their bitter taste helps deter less desirable birds and pests, such as squirrels while being highly nutritious for songbirds.
Millet is a popular choice for ground-feeding birds like sparrows, doves, and quails. It offers a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fibre, providing essential energy for these species. Millet can be scattered on the ground, making it accessible to ground-dwelling birds.
Peanuts, provided they are unsalted and shelled, are a high-energy snack packed with protein and fats. They are loved by woodpeckers, jays, and nuthatches. Peanuts can be served whole, shelled, or in pieces, offering versatility in feeding methods.
Striped sunflower seeds are another sunflower variety with slightly lower fat content than black-oil sunflower seeds. Their harder shells make them suitable for larger birds like cardinals and grosbeaks, providing an extra challenge that helps regulate feeding.
Smaller seeds like flaxseeds are also beneficial due to their omega-3 fatty acid content, which supports feather quality and overall health. They are an excellent addition to the diet of finches and sparrows. Similarly, when offered raw and unsalted, pumpkin seeds provide protein and essential fatty acids. Larger birds like jays and cardinals particularly enjoy them as a seasonal treat.
Canary seed is another great option for smaller, ground-feeding birds like juncos and sparrows. It contains carbohydrates and proteins, offering a balanced energy source without excessive fats. Mixed seed blends can also be effective, but it’s important to choose high-quality mixes containing seeds like sunflower or millet and avoid fillers like milo, which many birds dislike.
By offering various nutritious seeds, you can attract a diverse range of wild birds to your garden while ensuring they receive the energy and nutrients they need throughout the year. 🕊️🌿
Do birds need different food in summer compared to winter?
Yes, providing different bird food during winter and summer is important as birds have varying nutritional needs depending on the season. Adjusting your offerings ensures that birds are well-nourished throughout the year and helps attract a diverse range of species to your garden.
During winter, birds require high-energy foods to maintain body heat and survive harsh weather conditions. Suet cakes, peanuts (unsalted), sunflower seeds, and mealworms are excellent choices as they are rich in fats and calories. Additionally, dried fruits such as raisins or chopped apples can boost energy. Avoid feeding birds bread, as it lacks the essential nutrients they need during this time.
In summer, birds are more active and often busy nesting or moulting, so they need protein-rich food and other nutrients. Lighter options like millet, sunflower hearts, and fruits like berries, oranges, and grapes are ideal. Whether live or dried, mealworms are also excellent for providing the protein they need. It’s crucial to avoid fat-based products like suet during summer, as they can spoil quickly in the heat and potentially harm birds. Providing a freshwater source for drinking and bathing is equally important during the warmer months to prevent dehydration.
Regardless of the season, keeping bird feeders clean is vital to prevent the growth of mould and the spread of diseases. Regularly cleaning and monitoring what foods local bird species prefer ensures your garden remains a welcoming and safe haven for birds year-round.🕊️🌿
How do I prevent pests from accessing bird food in my garden?
Investing in pest-proof bird feeders is one of the most effective ways to deter pests. Many feeders are designed with weight-sensitive mechanisms that close access to food when heavier animals, like squirrels, try to feed. Alternatively, choose feeders enclosed in wire cages that allow small birds to eat but prevent larger animals from reaching the food.
Using additional accessories can further enhance your defences. Baffles, which are dome-shaped barriers, can be installed above or below feeders to stop pests from climbing or jumping onto them. Hanging feeders from smooth, metal poles also helps, as pests like squirrels struggle to grip slippery surfaces. Avoid wooden posts, as these provide an easy climbing route for many animals.
The strategic placement of your bird feeders is equally important. Place them at least 10 feet away from trees, fences, or other structures pests could use to leap onto the feeders. Hanging feeders at a sufficient height can also deter ground-dwelling pests such as rats. Combining these strategies with pest-resistant food, like seeds coated in chilli powder, can be highly effective. Birds are unaffected by chilli, but most pests find it unpalatable.
Maintaining a clean feeding area is crucial to discourage pests. Spilt seeds or debris can attract unwanted visitors, so using seed catchers or trays can help minimise waste. Additionally, regularly cleaning up the ground beneath feeders reduces pests’ food sources. Proper bird food storage is also essential—keep it in secure metal containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent pests from accessing it.
Finally, consider using natural deterrents or technology to protect your feeding area. Scattering materials like pepper flakes or mint around feeders can repel pests, while motion-activated devices emitting sounds or light flashes can scare them away.🕊️🌿
How can I feed small birds without attracting larger birds?
Specialised bird feeders designed for small birds are an excellent starting point. Feeders with narrow perches or enclosed wire mesh allow smaller birds to access the food while preventing larger species, such as pigeons or starlings, from reaching it. These feeders are especially effective at keeping the feeding area peaceful and less competitive.🕊️🌿
The type of food you offer is equally important. Smaller birds, like finches, robins, and tits, often prefer specific seeds such as nyjer or sunflower hearts, which are less attractive to larger birds. Avoid general seed mixes, as these can appeal to a wide range of species, including aggressive ones. Opting for high-quality, tailored food can help limit the number of unwanted visitors.
Strategically placing feeders can also make a significant difference. Position them in areas harder for larger birds to access, such as within dense shrubs or near thorny bushes. These locations provide cover and safety for smaller birds, making it difficult for bigger birds to dominate the feeding space. Avoid placing feeders in wide open spaces where aggressive birds have the advantage.
Adjusting your feeding schedule can further favour smaller birds. Larger species often feed during specific times of the day, so observing their habits and choosing when smaller birds are more active can make a big difference. Early mornings or mid-afternoons may be quieter times that allow small birds to feed undisturbed.
Another effective tactic is to limit the feeding space available to larger birds. Feeders with small, adjustable ports can restrict access, allowing only smaller birds to feed. Tray feeders can also be fitted with guards that block larger birds while letting smaller ones through. These adjustments ensure the food is reserved for your intended visitors.
Lastly, keeping the feeding area clean and free of spilt food is essential to discouraging aggressive birds. Food on the ground can attract unwanted species, so regularly clearing debris and avoiding scatter feeding will help maintain a balanced environment.
How often should I refill bird feeders?
The frequency with which you should refill bird feeders depends on various factors, including the number of birds visiting, the size of the feeder, the type of food provided, and the season. However, there are general guidelines to ensure your feeders are consistently stocked without overloading them.
In most cases, bird feeders should be checked and refilled every 2–3 days. During colder months, when birds need more energy to survive, feeders may need refilling more frequently as birds will eat more to sustain themselves. In contrast, food may last longer during summer, especially when natural food sources like insects and fruits are abundant.
It’s important to avoid overfilling feeders. Only put out as much food as the birds can consume in a few days to prevent spoilage, which can attract pests or spread disease. Spilled food or mouldy remnants should be cleaned promptly to maintain a healthy feeding environment.
Regular monitoring of your feeders will help you determine the ideal refilling schedule based on the activity in your garden. Maintaining a consistent supply is key to supporting your local bird population while ensuring your feeders remain fresh and appealing.🕊️🌿
Is there a type of bird food that’s ideal for the nesting or breeding season?
Yes, during the nesting and breeding season, birds have specific dietary requirements to support their energy needs and ensure the healthy development of their young. Providing the right types of food during this critical time can make a significant difference in helping birds thrive.
Live or dried mealworms are an excellent choice as they are high in protein, which is crucial for birds raising chicks. Insectivorous species, in particular, benefit from mealworms as they mimic the natural diet of many wild birds. Sunflower hearts are another ideal option as they are rich in nutrients and require no shell-cracking, making them convenient for parent birds to consume and share with their chicks.
Soft fruits, such as berries, grapes, or chopped apples, are also valuable during this season. They provide natural sugars for energy and help keep birds hydrated. Soaked sultanas and raisins are another soft, easy-to-digest food source, particularly beneficial for blackbirds and thrushes. Soaking dried fruits makes them safer and more appealing for parent birds to feed to their young.
Suet pellets or crumbles are packed with energy and can be an excellent supplement during the breeding season. Softened suet products offer additional nutrition, especially those blended with insects or berries. You can also find specialist nesting season seed mixes that contain a carefully balanced selection of seeds and grains designed to meet birds’ dietary needs during this time.
It’s important to avoid foods that could harm chicks. For example, whole peanuts should not be offered unless crushed or placed in a mesh feeder, as they can pose a choking hazard. Similarly, ensure that any food provided is fresh and mould-free, as spoiled food can spread diseases.🕊️🌿
Why do birds throw seeds from feeder
As we delve into the world of our feathered neighbours, a curious behaviour often catches our attention – the seemingly puzzling act of birds discarding seed from feeders. Unraveling this avian enigma, we find three key reasons behind this intriguing behaviour:
- Quality Matters: Imagine a world of flavours laid out before you. Birds, too, have discerning palates. Poor-quality seed or seed mixes are swiftly dismissed by these connoisseurs of nature. Opting for high-quality seed and meticulously crafted mixes, such as those from Vine House Farm, ensures that your avian friends indulge in nothing but the finest.
- The Hunt for Perfection: Picture a treasure hunt where the prize is a specific gem amidst a trove. Some bird species are selective, favouring certain seeds within a mix. In their quest, they nimbly throw aside undesired seeds, aiming for the culinary delights they seek. Coal tits, for instance, epitomise this behavior, honing in on treasures like sunflower hearts.
- Seeking the Ideal: Birds, much like us, are drawn to perfection. Some evidence suggests that birds are on the hunt for the ideal-sized seed, even when it’s of the same type. It’s a dance of preference and precision. A Coal tit, for instance, may sift through black sunflower seeds, searching for the quintessential one.
As we observe this intricate ballet, let’s marvel at the nuances that shape avian behaviour. Our feathered friends are not just eaters; they are connoisseurs, seekers of perfection, and embody a world where nature’s intricacies unfold.
By understanding their motives, we enhance our connection to these enchanting creatures, a connection that echoes the exquisite symphony of the wild. 🕊️🌿
