Bird Seed Storage
Bird Seed Storage Ideas
When purchased in small amounts, bird seed storage isn't usually much of a problem. More often than not we simply store what needs to be stored in the original container and in the kitchen. What we're discussing here however is the situation where one may wish to feed large numbers of birds, starting in the late fall and continuing through the winter months. We may think that during the winter months, birds either head south, or somehow manage to fend for themselves. This is true to some extent, but over the years we've slowly been encroaching on their native habitats, and for some species food can be more and more difficult to find at certain times of the year.
A Nice Hobby - There are plenty of people who delight in trying to keep a large number of birds fed through the winter months. If gives one a warm feeling to find that birds have discovered the seed that has been put out, and alerted their friends. The birds are not only getting a meal, but for some it can make the difference between surviving or not surviving the winter season. More birds, and more varieties of birds, will translate into a need not only for more bird seed, but perhaps several types of bird seed as well. More seed and a greater variety, in turn means that bird seed storage can get a little more complicated, though not overwhelmingly so.
Three Things To Take Into Account - A bird seed storage system may sound like overdoing things a bit, but all that one is trying to do is have a storage system in place in which (1) seed won't be spilled and wasted, (2) insects and rodents can't get at it, and (3) the seed won't spoil due to mold or mildew. If bird seed is purchased in large quantities, it will usually be in a sack, probably the worst container for storage. Bird seed in sacks can be easy to spill, especially when scooping seed out or pouring it into another container. Most sacks aren't rodent proof, and none are if the opening isn't closed and secured. A sack won't usually contribute to mold or mildew though unless the immediate environment encourages it. Zip-lock plastic bags will be better, though may not be large enough in some instances. A plastic container, or tub, even a garbage pail is a better idea, especially if we're talking about 20 to 50 pounds of seed.
Galvanized Containers Are Best -The best bird seed storage solution is the galvanized metal can or container. The top can be secured, making it insect and rodent proof (few rodents attempt to chew through metal), and mold or mildew won't be a problem if the lid fits tightly, unless the bird seed has been allowed to become moist before storing it. Spillage is usually less of a problem as well. Pouring seed from a container, or even scooping seed out of one, is usually less messy than trying to do it from a sack. Galvanized metal containers are recommended, especially if the seed is not going to be stored in the house, as the cans won't rust if exposed to moisture.
If you're going to purchase several smaller containers, each holding between 5 and 10 pounds of different combinations or types of seed, check the lids for easy opening before you purchase the containers. The lids should be snug, but at times metal lids can be notorious for sticking. Holding a can and trying to pull of a lid that is sticking sometimes results in spilling the contents when the lid comes off suddenly. A little candle wax can help in this regard if sticking becomes a problem. If you are feeding many different kinds of birds, a few galvanized containers of the appropriate size, each marked according to the type of seed being stored, or the species of birds the seed is for, is most probably the best storage solution.