Softbill birds, like robins, blackbirds, thrushes, wrens, and wagtails, have delicate, slender beaks designed for munching on insects, fruit, and berries. Unlike hardbill birds (think finches and sparrows) that crack open seeds with their strong beaks, softbills prefer softer, more natural foods. That means if you want to attract them to your garden, you'll need to provide the right grub!

What Do Softbill Birds Eat?

In the wild, softbills feast on insects, worms, berries, and fruit. They rely on high-protein, easy-to-eat foods to keep them energised. So, if you want to keep them well-fed in your garden, you’ll need to offer something similar.

The Best Food for Softbills

One of the easiest ways to feed softbill birds is by using a specially blended mix like the Wiggly Softbill Mix. This top-quality mix is packed with all the good stuff they love, including:

• Dried Mealworms – Packed with protein, an absolute favourite of robins and blackbirds.
• Sunflower Hearts – Easy to eat and full of energy.
• Cut Maize – A great source of carbs to keep them going.
• Pinhead Oats – Perfect for smaller birds like wrens.
• Rolled Wheat, Barley & Naked Oats – A great all-rounder mix for different softbills.
• Raisins & Sultanas – A hit with blackbirds and thrushes, especially in autumn and winter.

How to Feed Them

You can scatter the mix on a bird table, put it in a ground feeder, or simply leave it in a quiet, sheltered spot. Softbill birds are often ground feeders, so make sure the food is easy to access. Keep feeders clean and fresh, especially in winter when natural food is harder to find.

If you’re looking to attract more softbill birds to your garden, offering the right food is key. Give them a helping hand with a nutritious, natural mix, and you’ll be rewarded with plenty of feathered visitors!