Small Black Oil Sunflower is the favorite seed among seed eaters both large and small. In a mix or by itself, it is the most important seed to have at your feeding station. It has a soft thinner shell that is easier to open especially for the smaller, more colorful species. In addition, it is the seed with the highest seed-to-shell ratio and rich in oil for protein content.

White Proso Millet is the second most preferred seed of the seed eaters. It is a seed that is high in carbohydrates and contains a moderate level of protein that provides heat and energy during the cold winter months.

Thistle, is a popular seed among the gold finch, house finch and pine siskin. In a mix or by itself this seed will attract the smaller more colorful species to your feeder. Another advantage is the seed is heat treated and prevents it from sprouting.

Striped Sunflower, is a good seed, but it is larger, has a thicker outer shell, and has less fat or protein per ounce that the small black oil seed. This seed appeals to the larger, colorful birds.

Cracked Corn, is eaten by many birds, even if it isn't their "favorite". The advantage of cracked corn is that it deteriorates quickly in wet weather, thus preventing unwanted sprouts.

Wheat, like cracked corn, is eaten by many of the ground feeding birds and even the larger birds such as quail, pheasant, dove, and many waterfowl.

Milo has been a misunderstood seed owing to the fact that the bitter variety is grown for the sole purpose of repelling birds that damage sorghum fields. However, milo used in Mills Brothers products is of a different variety and is harvested at just the right stage to preserve the flavor. It is just as popular with ground feeding birds as any other food.