Posted by Beth Anne Quinlan, PhD Avian Sciences on 2/15/2020 to
Wild Birds
Suet is made from beef fat, especially the fat found around the loins and kidneys. There are probably hundreds of recipes for making suet and blending it with seeds, fruits, nuts, and insects. Fortunately, today you have the convenience of purchasing suet cakes.
Suet is among the best foods to attract woodpeckers. Woodpeckers use their tails as a balance when eating and will appreciate a suet feeder with a tail prop.
Bluebirds and wrens love mealworms! Consider using suet blocks containing mealworms.
Suet should be offered to your birds year-round. No melt suet is essential if you are feeding in warmer climates, during the summer, and for hot spells. Your birds will appreciate that you are providing suet that won't spoil and you'll avoid the messy feeders and area beneath.
Starlings love suet. You can discourage them by hanging an upside down suet feeder or using a suet cover on your existing feeder. Woodpeckers, chickadees, and nuthatches will still be able to access the suet in your feeder.