When finches are searching for food, a finch feeder chock-full of Nyjer® seed is a welcome sight. Though a popular choice, many birders don’t realize some of the fascinating facts behind this tiny, needle-shaped, black oily seed.

1. Nyjer® seed attract finches

If you’d like to add another feeder to your yard, a tube feeder filled with Nyjer® seed will specifically attract finches, such as American Goldfinches, House Finches, and Purple Finches. Still, Indigo Buntings, Red Polls, and Pine Siskins love it too -  increasing the variety of species you draw to your yard. It has been noted that squirrels are typically not interested in Nyjer® seed, which keeps down on competition at the feeder. Nyjer® seed is high in oil content, providing a rich energy source for birds, especially during colder months.

2. Nyjer® seed doesn't produce thistle plants

Because finches are known for eating thistle seeds, the Nyjer® seed was initially marketed as such, even though they produce an altogether different plant. Thistle is a spiky plant that belongs to the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It is native to many regions, including North America, Asia, and Europe. While Nyjer® seed comes from a yellow flower called the Guizotia abyssinica, also known as the African daisy, and is grown in India, Ethiopia, and Myanmar for its seed crop. While Nyjer® is sometimes mistakenly called "thistle seed," it is not related to true thistle plants. And since thistle plants are not exactly favored and sought after by gardeners and farmers, the Wild Bird Feeding Industry eventually trademarked the name “Nyjer®" to sell and market this bird food.

3. Nyjer® seed is the only major bird seed imported to the U.S.

Since 1985, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has required that Nyjer® seed is heat sterilized as a condition of entry to prevent germination.

4. Nyjer® seed is used in international cuisine

Nyjer® seed, while widely known as bird food in North America, has a rich history in global cuisine, particularly in Ethiopia, India, and Nepal. These tiny black seeds are highly valued for their nutty flavor, high oil content, and nutritional benefits. The seeds are pressed for cooking oil, roasted or ground, and incorporated into various traditional cooking dishes.

5. Nyjer® seed is best served fresh

When this seed isn't sold and consumed in a timely fashion, it can dry out and become much less appealing to the finches you want to draw into your yard. That's why it's important to turn to a trusted source like Lyric Wild Bird Food, which uses Stay Fresh technology in packaging the Nyjer® Seed. We deliver fresh, top-quality Nyjer® seed so you can set out a welcoming feast for the finches in your neighborhood.