Birdseed scattering can be a frustrating problem for bird lovers. As birds eat from feeders or forage on the ground, seeds often get flung far and wide. This creates mess that many want to avoid in their yards or on patios and decks. Luckily, there are some simple solutions for containing birdseed and keeping areas tidy.
Why Does Birdseed Scatter?
Birdseed ends up strewn all over for a couple of main reasons:
- Birds flinging seeds – Birds are naturally messy eaters. As they pluck seeds from feeders or the ground, seeds often get launched away. Larger birds like doves and pigeons are especially prone to scattering seeds.
- Wind – Outdoor bird feeding areas are exposed to wind. Gusts can blow lightweight seeds out of feeders or off the ground.
- Foraging behavior – Ground feeding birds like doves, juncos and sparrows scratch and scatter seeds while foraging.
- Gravity – Seeds in overhead feeders that get soaked by rain or snow can get heavy and fall down below.
Understanding what causes seeds to disperse helps guide solutions.
Messy Birdseed Drawbacks
While birds naturally fling seeds, uncontrolled scattering can cause problems:
- Wasted birdseed – Scattered seeds quickly get lost in vegetation or soil, becoming inaccessible to birds.
- Moldy seeds – Seeds left on hard surfaces like patios can collect moisture and become moldy.
- Growth of unwanted plants – Seeds sprouting in garden beds become weeds.
- Rodent attraction – Rats and mice will scavenge on loose seeds.
- Slip hazard – Scattered seeds can make decks and walkways slippery.
- Difficult cleanup – Seeds sprinkle into grass, garden beds, porch corners and other hard to sweep spots.
Preventing wide scattering keeps bird feeding areas cleaner and safer. There are many techniques bird lovers employ.
Seed Catchers Under Feeders
Placing a tray or tarp to catch fallen seeds directly under feeders is an easy first step. This contains the majority of the mess in a single spot.
Trays
Trays specifically designed to sit under feeders are convenient and blend into outdoor décor. Look for ones with deep rims to corral bouncing seeds. Some have mesh bottoms so water drains through while seeds are caught on top.
Plastic saucer-style trays are inexpensive and work well. Foil roasting pans are another option. For very large scatter, use a boot tray or concrete mixing tub.
Tip: Periodically clean trays to prevent seeds from piling up and eventually bouncing out.
Tarps
Heavy duty canvas tarps can also be placed under feeders. Use grommets to loosely secure the edges with stakes or tie to posts so the tarp stays put when birds land on it. The waterproof fabric prevents seeds from sticking.
Tip: Fold or roll tarps when not in use for easier storage. Shake off seeds before folding.
Seed Catchers Surrounding Feeders
While catch trays directly below feeders gather much of the scatter, additional seeds inevitably get flung further away. Placing containment solutions around the perimeter of the feeding area prevents broader dispersal.
Seed Mats
Seed catcher mats surround feeders to grab scattered seeds over a larger area. These woven plastic mats allow drainage but are dense enough to capture most seeds dropped by birds. Just take care that mats don’t obstruct access to ground feeding areas.
Mats come in various sizes. Join multiple mats together as needed to cover the scatter zone around feeders. When seeds accumulate, easily roll up the mats and shake off debris.
Gravel
An inexpensive option is to lay landscaping gravel or pebbles around feeders. Seeds fall between the stones rather than bouncing away. About 2-3 inches deep works well. Just leave some bare ground accessible for birds that prefer to scratch and forage.
The gravel itself deters scatter since birds don’t like foraging on it. Over time, seeds settle between the stones and become less visible and appetizing.
Periodically rake gravel to gather up accumulated debris on top. It’s easy enough to sieve out the seeds from the stones.
Paver Stones
For a more decorative look, arrange paver stones around feeders. Sand or pea gravel swept between the pavers contains the seeds.
This offers a tidy, finished appearance. But it does require replenishing the gravel now and then as seeds disappear between the stones.
Landscaping Borders
Landscape edging like plastic border strips or metal, stone or brick landscape borders can neatly contain scattered seeds. Position borders around the feeder area, allowing birds easy access.
Seeds are trapped within the receptacle formed by the borders, keeping them off patios or paths. This prevents messy scattering while maintaining an integrated, landscaped look.
Packed Gravel Borders
For a more substantial barrier, install a packed gravel border dug 6-12 inches deep around feeders. This forms a “moat” that securely stops seeds, similar to landscape edging but more heavy duty.
The gravel should be firmly packed, not loose. Be sure to leave an unfilled gap anywhere birds walk on the ground to access seeds or water.
Packing gravel into gabion baskets or cells offers a structured edge that’s easy to install. Just interlock the basket pieces to desired shape and length, then pack with gravel.
Use Feeders That Minimize Scatter
Specially designed feeders cut down on wayward seeds at the source. Choose feeders with features to reduce scattering.
Tube Feeders
Enclosed tube feeders with small ports sized for specific birds cut back on flinging. The seeds are contained within the tube until accessed through the ports.
Avoid cheaper mixed seed mixes, as birds rifle through to pick out favorites, scattering the rest. Offer tube feeders with specific seeds preferred by the target bird species.
Also use tube feeders tailored for that bird’s feeding behavior. For example, hummingbirds access nectar through built-in lickers or raised bee guards.
Catch Lip Feeders
Some tube feeders add an angled catch lip below ports that returns knocked off seeds back into the tube. These lips can reduce scatter by up to 50%.
Tray Feeders
Tray or platform feeders with caged tops allow birds to feeding without exiting the cage with a beak full of seeds. Opt for tray feeders with roofs that provide shelter and help contain seeds.
House Feeders
Enclosed house-style feeders nearly eliminate scatter since birds sit inside while feeding. Houses have perches and feeding ports and are ideal for winter weather.
Just be sure feeder openings allow the desired birds to easily enter and exit. Clean houses regularly to prevent buildup of old seeds.
Suet Feeders
When offering suet, use feeders designed to minimize crumbling. Choose suet cages with small wire openings that hold suet chunks intack as birds peck. Avoid open suet meshes where birds pluck and drop chunks.
Ground Feeding Options
For ground feeding birds like doves and sparrows, use platforms with catch trays. Tray lids, grates or roofs minimize scratching that scatters seeds.
Also offer ground feeders with large capacity internal seed reservoirs that limit the amount of seed exposed. Birds can access the seeds through ports without making a mess on the ground.
Weight
For hanging feeders, use weights to keep them from swaying or swinging in wind. Stable feeders experience less seed flinging.
Attach feeder poles or hangers to solid, non-moving surfaces rather than tree branches. Select heavy materials like steel that resist movement.
Reduce Exposure to Wind
Wind significantly contributes to blowing seeds out of feeders or off the ground. Use landscaping and feeder placement to create calmer zones.
Natural Barriers
Take advantage of existing structures, trees and plants as natural wind blocks:
- Place feeders along house walls, garages or shed. The building blocks wind on one or more sides.
- Hang feeders on the leeward side of trees. Trunks and canopy shelter from wind.
- Mount feeders inside dense shrubs. Branches buffer wind action.
Position feeders so prevailing wind blows scattered seeds onto enclosed surfaces rather than open yard.
Artificial Barriers
Manmade barriers can also create wind shelter:
- Install hobby greenhouse panels or plexiglass to block wind.
- Use lattice, trellis or pergola to form protected feeding cavities.
- Arrange planters, pots or raised beds to break up airflow.
TIP: Allow adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
Use Hanging Feeders
Hanging feeders often experience less wind sway than pole mounted ones. Suspend feeders using cables, chains or shepherds hooks anchored in solid surfaces.
Try a double hanging system with a base cable and short hanger lines to minimize movement. Use swivels to prevent twisting.
TIP: Hang feeders at proper heights for each bird species to reduce exposure.
Avoid Overcrowding
Congregating too many feeders close together increases chaos that scatters seeds. Space feeders apart so birds have room to come and go without collisions. follow recommendations for suitable distances based on species.
Also place ground feeding stations away from hanging feeders to avoid seed flinging by birds taking flight. Define separate zones for different feeder types.
Use Ground Coverings
Rather than seeds falling onto bare soil or hard surfaces, choosing coverings helps contain mess.
Artificial Turf
Artificial turf beneath feeders collects dropped seeds within its fibrous backing. Compared to grass, fake turf is more durable and won’t die from seed buildup or bird waste.
Be sure to use artificial turf with a permeable backing that allows drainage so seeds don’t mold.
TIP: Occasionally lift and shake turf to dislodge accumulated debris between cleanings.
Mulch
Mulch absorbs falling seeds while still allowing birds to forage. Aim for 2-3 inches of non-floating mulch like wood chips, pine straw or bark nuggets. Avoid light materials like cocoa hulls that easily kick up in wind.
Replenish mulch as needed, since it tends to get mixed with the topsoil over time. Pull any sprouted seeds growing in the mulch to prevent weeds.
Sand
Fine sand makes a tidy surface cover that naturally filters waste and seeds. Maintain 1-2 inches depth. Rake to level and remove accumulated debris.
Limit sand to small zones, as birds will fling it like a birdbath. Keep sand away from deck or house foundations.
Stepping Stones
Arrange flat stepping stones in ground feeding areas. Birds stand on the stones to eat rather than digging in surrounding soil or mulch. This keeps seeds contained on the stone surfaces for easier cleaning.
Choose textured stone surfaces rather than smooth. Allow space between pavers for drainage and clearing debris.
Concrete Mix
For a permanent seamless surface, install a small pad of poured concrete, concrete pavers or paver sand base beneath feeders or in ground feeding zones. Sweeping or spraying cleans the surface of scattered seeds.
This offers a clean, finished look that contains mess. But it prevents birds from scratching and limits vegetation.
Use Seed Catching Rugs
Indoor bird feeding can also generate mess that scatters outside doorways or gets tracked through the house. Mats catch dropped seeds by cages or room entryways.
Vented Mats
Use vented vinyl mats or commercial bird cage mats to catch falling seeds. The open-weave allows bird droppings and other debris to fall through while capturing larger seed debris on top.
Vented mats are easy to clean by shaking or hosing off. Place them under cages, stands and small outdoor feeders.
Outdoor Mats
For indoor feeders, use outdoor-style mats at room entry points. These polypropylene bristled mats trap seeds and other materials brought in on feet or wings. They contain the mess at the entryway rather than spreading through the home.
TIP: Avoid rubber-backed mats which prevent drainage of bird waste.
Coco Liners
For clutter control beneath feeders or cages directly, lay down coconut fiber liners. These reusable mats soak up spilled water and food, protecting floors. The ribbed texture traps seeds and hulls while allowing waste to fall through.
Shake or vacuum coconut liners as needed to remove debris. Change monthly or more often for heavy use.
Clean Up Seed Buildup
Over time, even contained seeds will accumulate. Regular cleaning prevents excessive buildup:
Ground Surface Seeds
Use a stiff broom or leaf blower to loosen debris and seeds from ground coverings and collect. Avoid wet hosing, which can cause seeds to stick and sprout.
For gravel or pavers, sieve to separate seeds and reuse the hardscape materials. Till pea gravel coverings periodically to clean and aerate.
Catch Trays
Check trays daily and remove filled ones. Brush or wipe down before replacing.
To separate seeds from shell debris, simply pour off the top layer of lighter seeds after heavier shells settle.
Mats and Liners
Take up mats or liners weekly or more often if heavily soiled. Shake off loose debris or hose down and let dry before replacing beneath feeders. Rotate multiple mat sets for convenience.
TIP: For outdoor mats, check that no seeds have sprouted in the fibers before storage.
Feeders
Take down feeders periodically to remove old seeds and clean interior corners and crevices. This improves hygiene and reduces opportunities for new seeds to accumulate.
Under Roosts
Check for seed piles under outdoor roosting or perching spots near feeders. Birds often knock seeds off while jostling for position. Clear these up so they don’t get kicked into the wider area.
Discourage Pests
Preventing seeds from accumulating too long also avoids attracting pests like rats or mice.
Remove Nightly
Don’t leave seeds in open feeders or trays overnight. Remove catch trays and close up feeders. Secure lids on outdoor feeder stations.
This starves pests of a free food source. Automatic feeders with short run timers help limit night access.
Clean Under Feeders
Rake or sweep up leftover seeds, shells and droppings from under feeders daily. Rodents are drawn to these ground messes.
Use Dome Baffles
Install dome baffles over pole mounts or hooks to prevent squirrels from climbing up to feeders. Squirrel-proof feeders prevent them chewing through to get seeds.
Apply Repellents
Apply non-toxic squirrel or rodent repellent spray around feeder stations. Repellent chemicals, oils or scents deter pests. Reapply after rain.
Use Predator Effigies
Set out plastic owl or hawk effigies to scare rodents. Move effigies every few days to reinforce the predator threat. Avoid effigies that deter birds.
Conclusion
Birdseed scatter is an inevitable result of feeding our feathered friends. But a combination of smart practices can minimize the mess while still welcoming birds.
Try different containment strategies to find the right balance for your space and birds. Pairing cleanup vigilance with proactive prevention will keep your yard tidy so you can relax and enjoy the show nature provides. Just remember that some pleasantly messy antics are part of fostering a thriving and vibrant bird community.