Help Center
Frequently asked questions
Everything about our wild organic bird seed, from what's in the blend to keeping your feeder busy. Still stuck? Email us anytime at hello@flyingcolors.co.
Product & quality
What makes Flying Colors organic bird seed better than store-bought bird seed?
We don't treat bird seed like a cheap commodity. Our organic bird seed blends are made from ethically sourced ingredients and blended in small batches for maximum freshness. Everything we make is designed to attract and nourish a wide variety of backyard birds. We only use USDA-organic, non-GMO ingredients and never include fillers, so there's no waste birds toss aside. The result is a cleaner bird feeder, less mess, and birds that actually eat what you put out.
Is organic bird seed worth it for feeding wild birds?
We believe it is, for the birds and for the land they live on. Our seeds and nuts are grown without toxic chemicals, pesticides, or insecticides, so you're not introducing those into your backyard or the wider food chain. Feeding birds clean, organic seed supports their health directly, and choosing organically farmed ingredients also promotes healthier soil, cleaner water, and better farming practices well beyond your feeder. Just as you think about what you eat, it's worth considering what you feed the wild birds that visit you every day. It's a small, repeatable choice that adds up to a meaningful environmental impact over a season of feeding. You can explore our full range of organic bird food to get started.
Why is your bird seed more expensive?
Because we make it the slow, careful way, and that costs more than mass-produced seed. We use premium USDA-organic ingredients, blend everything by hand in small batches, and refuse to bulk it out with cheap fillers like corn, milo, or wheat the way most conventional brands do. Our seed is clean, fresh, and packaged in recyclable, plastic-free materials instead of throwaway plastic bags. You pay a little more per carton, but almost none of it ends up wasted on the ground, because birds actually eat what you put out. When you compare cost per useful serving instead of cost per bag, our Carton is a better value than it first looks.
Do birds prefer organic bird seed?
Yes, and they tend to show it fast. Because our blends have no filler ingredients to pick through, birds land, eat right away, and come back more often instead of flinging unwanted seed to the ground. Most customers tell us they notice more activity at the feeder within days of switching, along with a greater variety of species stopping by. Clean, fresh, organic seed is simply easier for birds to recognize as food, and there's less waste left behind for you to sweep up. If you're switching from a conventional mix, give it a little time and keep the feeder consistently full while the birds find it.
Can you help me choose the right bird seed blend or feeder?
Absolutely! Just send us a message at hello@flyingcolors.co and we'll guide you to the perfect pick for your birds. We're available Monday-Friday, during regular business hours (Eastern Time).
Where does your seed come from?
We're proudly based in New York's Hudson Valley, where we hand-mix and test all our seed blends.
Ingredients & blends
What ingredients are in your organic bird seed blends?
Our blends are built entirely from clean, organic ingredients birds actually want to eat, with zero fillers. Depending on the blend, you'll find hulled sunflower hearts, black oil sunflower, peanut hearts, white proso millet, safflower, and hemp, each one nutrient-dense and chosen to attract a wide variety of backyard birds. We also offer single-origin options when you want to keep a feeder simple. What you won't find is corn, milo, wheat, or any of the cheap padding that ends up scattered on the ground under most feeders. You can see the full lineup, including our Millbrook "No Mess," Pine Plains "Original," and Woodstock "Hempy" blends, on our organic bird food page.
Why don't you use corn, milo, or wheat in bird seed?
Because most birds don't prefer them, and they offer lower nutritional value. These grains are commonly used as cheap fillers in conventional bird seed and often end up on the ground. We focus only on ingredients birds actually eat.
Is your bird seed safe for all backyard birds?
Yes. Every blend we make is formulated to safely nourish a wide range of wild birds, from cardinals and chickadees to nuthatches, grosbeaks, and woodpeckers, and it works in nearly all feeder types, including tube, hopper, and platform feeders. We only use clean, USDA-organic, non-GMO seeds and nuts, with no chemicals, dyes, or fillers that could be harmful. Every batch is tested and inspected by hand before it leaves our workshop, so you can feed it with confidence. If you're not sure which blend suits the birds in your area, browse our organic bird food or email us and we'll help you choose.
Bird behavior
What types of birds will my bird feeder attract?
Our organic bird seed blends attract a wide variety of backyard birds, including cardinals, grosbeaks, chickadees, nuthatches, woodpeckers, and more. Different blends may favor certain species, but all are designed to bring more life to your feeder.
How long does it take birds to find a new bird feeder?
Sometimes birds find a new feeder within hours, but it can also take a few days or weeks. Once birds discover a reliable, high-quality food source, they tend to return regularly, and they bring others! If you are having trouble getting birds to your feeder, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@flyingcolors.co.
Why aren't birds coming to my bird feeder?
Give it some time. Make sure your bird feeder is in a visible location and kept consistently full. Birds need time to discover new food sources, but activity typically builds quickly once they do.
Does better bird seed reduce mess under a feeder?
Yes. Because we don't use filler ingredients, birds don't toss aside unwanted seed. With options like our "No Mess" bird seed (made with hulled seeds), you'll see significantly less debris under your feeder.
Usage & setup
What type of bird feeder should I use with your seed?
Our organic bird seed works in all bird feeder types, including tube feeders, hopper feeders, and platform feeders. Just pour and go.
Where should I place my bird feeder?
Place your bird feeder about five feet off the ground and near natural cover like trees or shrubs so birds feel safe. For window safety, position feeders either within 3 feet of a window or more than 30 feet away to reduce collisions. If you are experiencing window collisions at your home, we highly recommend purchasing window decals.
How often should I refill my bird feeder?
Refill your bird feeder as often as it empties. Consistency is key. Birds return to feeders they can rely on.
How often should I clean my bird feeder?
Clean your bird feeder every 2 to 4 weeks, or more often in warm or wet conditions. Old seed and moisture can lead to mold and bacteria, which can harm birds. Use soap and water, then dry thoroughly before refilling.
What are the best bird feeding tips for beginners?
Keep your bird feeder clean, store bird seed in a cool, dry place, and avoid letting old seed sit too long. Fresh seed and a clean setup attract more birds and support their health.
Getting started
What's the best way to start feeding backyard birds?
Start with one bird feeder, keep it consistently filled, and give birds time to discover it. Once they do, activity will increase and patterns will emerge.
What do customers typically do after their first bird seed order?
Most people try one carton, notice the difference quickly, and then switch to a subscription so they never run out.
Comparison
Can I use cheap bird seed and get the same results?
You can, but most conventional bird seed contains fillers birds don't eat. That leads to more waste, fewer birds, and less value overall. Our blends are designed so birds eat everything you put out.
Why does store-bought bird seed leave so much debris?
Because birds pick out the preferred ingredients and discard the rest. That's exactly what we eliminate by removing fillers.
Is premium bird seed worth it for backyard bird feeding?
We think so. Most people find that higher-quality bird seed leads to more birds, less mess, and a more enjoyable experience overall.
Subscriptions
Do you offer bird seed subscriptions, and how do they work?
A subscription to Flying Colors delivers your bird seed automatically at your preferred frequency. This way, you never run out! Subscribers get 10% off, free shipping, exclusive discounts, and first access to seasonal blends.
You are never obligated to subscribe when you make a purchase. You can buy The Carton on its own, or opt in and subscribe. By default, you are not subscribed, and only The Carton is available through a subscription.
Once you've subscribed, you're in complete control. You can change the frequency you receive shipments or even your next shipping date at any time. You can also update your address, cancel your subscription, or skip a shipment, all by logging into your account.
Can I skip, adjust, or pause my subscription?
Yes! You can pause, modify, or cancel your subscription anytime through your account dashboard. If you need to make any last-minute adjustments before your subscription refills, make sure to reach out to us 1-2 business days before your next refill date so that we can make the needed changes in time :)
Will I get reminders before my next order ships?
Of course! We'll notify you before each shipment, so you can make changes if needed.
Help, I'm getting packages too frequently, how do I change it?
Easy! Log into your account and click "Manage Subscription". From there you can click on "Next box ships on," choose whichever next processing date you'd like, and Save! Still having trouble? Reach out to Support and we'd be happy to help at hello@flyingcolors.co.
What if I want to cancel?
No problem, cancel any time, but we'll miss you!
Can I add additional discounts to my subscription?
No, we can't add any additional discounts to subscription orders. Your subscription already includes 10% off and free shipping.
Orders & shipping
How long will it take to get my package?
Most orders arrive within about one to two weeks, with free shipping on every bird seed order. Because your seed is blended and packed fresh by hand in New York's Hudson Valley, we process and ship orders within one to two business days. From there, your package typically arrives three to seven business days after it ships, depending on where you are in the country. You'll receive tracking details by email as soon as it's on the way, so you can follow it from our workshop to your door. If you'd rather never run out, our subscription delivers fresh seed automatically at the frequency you choose.
How can I track my order?
Once you place your order online, you can see your purchase details, follow its preparation, and view shipping updates by logging into your account.
What's your return policy?
We accept returns within 14 days of delivery. If your return is approved, we'll send a prepaid shipping label and instructions; return shipping costs are deducted from your refund. Returns must be approved first. Packages sent back without notice won't be accepted. To start a return or if you have additional questions, email hello@flyingcolors.co.
Wholesale & retail
I'm a retailer or distributor, how can I sell your seed in my shop?
Reach out to sales@flyingcolors.co and our team will get you set up.
Media & partnerships
I have a press or media inquiry. Who should I contact?
Please email hello@flyingcolors.co and we'll get right back to you.
I'm interested in partnering with Flying Colors. Who do I speak to?
If you'd like to explore a partnership or collaboration, email hello@flyingcolors.co and we'll be in touch.
Brand & mission
Why did you start Flying Colors bird seed?
We started Flying Colors because we couldn't find bird seed that felt good to feed wildlife. What began as small-batch blending in our backyard became a mission: to nourish birds and support healthier ecosystems with better, cleaner food.
Is Flying Colors bird seed only for serious birders?
Not at all. Whether you're new to bird feeding or experienced, better bird seed makes the experience more rewarding.
How does organic bird seed help the environment?
Our organic, pesticide-free ingredients support healthier soil, cleaner water, and better farming practices. Combined with plastic-free packaging, it's a more sustainable way to feed birds.
No questions match your search. Try different words, or email hello@flyingcolors.co.
Still have questions?
Our team is based in the Hudson Valley and happy to help you find the right blend for your birds.
Email us