What to Feed Wild Birds in NZ (And How to Keep Your Feeders Clean and Safe)
New Zealand’s gardens are a haven for a wide variety of beautiful wild birds. Whether you are welcoming tūī and bellbirds or cheeky sparrows and doves, feeding wild birds can bring joy and help support their health. It's important to do this responsibly. This way, we can protect our feathered friends and keep your backyard safe for feeding. Here is what you need to know.
Native Birds vs Introduced Birds: Why It Matters
In New Zealand, native birds have different diets compared to introduced birds.
For example, native birds like tūī, bellbirds, and silvereyes eat different foods than sparrows, doves, and blackbirds, which were brought in from other places. Native birds often rely on nectar and soft fruits, while many introduced birds prefer seeds and grains.
Knowing these differences helps you provide the right food for wild birds. This supports their natural diets and helps them thrive all year.
Common Native Birds You Might Spot
Here are some beautiful native species you might welcome into your backyard:
- Tūī: Known for their melodic calls and iridescent feathers, tūī love nectar, fruits, and insects.
- Bellbird (Korimako): A sweet-voiced nectar-feeder that also enjoys fruits and small insects.
- Silvereye (Tauhou): Tiny, social birds that love berries and fruit as well as nectar.
- New Zealand Fantail (Pīwakawaka): Agile insect hunters, often seen flitting about after bugs.
- Grey Warbler (Riroriro): Small and shy, these birds feed mainly on insects.
- New Zealand Pigeon (Kererū): These gentle giants love native fruits and leaves.
- Tomtit (Miromiro): Forest-loving birds that mainly feed on insects.
- North Island Kākā: A playful parrot species that enjoys nectar, fruit, and seeds.
Feeding stations can sometimes attract a mix of these species, depending on your location and what foods you offer.
What to Feed Wild Birds in New Zealand
Choosing safe, nutritious food is the most important step in responsible wild bird feeding.
Best Options for Wild Birds
- Seeds: Perfect for sparrows, doves, and finches. Look for quality seed mixes made specifically for wild birds without any additives or fillers. Products like the Topflite Wild Bird Seed Bell are a great, no-mess way to provide seeds. You can also find many other seed products at Petdirect.
- Nectar: Nectar-feeders like tūī and bellbirds need a safe source of energy. Instead of sugary homemade mixes, use a balanced, specially formulated nectar such as the Topflite Wild Bird Nectar. We also stock other nectar feeding options to suit your backyard visitors.
- Fruit-based Treats: Birds like silvereyes and blackbirds love berries and soft fruits. Treats like the Topflite Wild Bird Truffles Berry are full of nutrients. We also have a variety of other treats that are great for seasonal feeding.
What to Avoid
- Bread and processed human foods: These can fill birds up without providing the nutrients they need. Feeding bread regularly can lead to malnutrition and illness in both native and introduced birds.
How to Keep Your Bird Feeders Clean and Safe
Maintaining clean and safe feeding stations is just as important as the food you provide.
- Clean Weekly: Wash feeders at least once a week with hot, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
- Position Carefully: Put feeders in sheltered areas, away from strong winds and direct sunlight. Make sure they are safe from predators like cats.
- Separate Food Types: Use different feeders for nectar and seeds. This helps avoid contamination and keeps the food fresh longer.
- Check Food Regularly: Remove any old, soggy, or mouldy food to prevent the spread of bacteria that can make birds sick.
Extra Tips for Happy Bird Visitors
- Offer a range of foods to attract a diverse variety of birds.
- Provide fresh water daily for drinking and bathing.
- Plant native trees and shrubs where you can to offer a natural food source and shelter.
Help Birds Thrive with Petdirect
At Petdirect, we offer a wide range of wild bird foods and accessories to make feeding easy and rewarding. Our Wild Bird Category is full of options to suit every bird lover's needs.
By feeding responsibly and keeping feeders clean, you can make your backyard a great place for New Zealand's amazing birds. Enjoy their lovely songs and colourful visits all year long!