Hempseed: the sustainable solution for your garden birds

4 min read
Hempseed: the sustainable solution for your garden birds

Let’s talk about hemp - a plant that has been the subject of controversy for decades. While its association with cannabis might raise a few eyebrows, hemp seeds are entirely different from the psychoactive parts of the plant. They contain virtually no THC and are perfectly safe for both humans and animals. In fact, hemp is one of the most sustainable crops out there, and its seeds are a nutritional powerhouse for birds.

I first came across the idea of using hemp as bird food in an old ornithology book called Feeding Wild Birds in America by Baicich, Barker, and  Henderson. The book includes a chapter called “Hemp, the Devil’s Birdseed,” which explores how hemp was once a popular ingredient in birdseed mixes before federal laws in the states restricted its cultivation. The name alone intrigued me - I wouldn’t have considered using hemp before reading about its history and benefits in this book, but it turns out hemp has been feeding birds for generations, and it’s time we brought it back into our gardens.

Why Hemp is a Sustainable Superstar

Hemp is a dream crop for environmentally conscious farming. It grows quickly, up to 10 centimetres a day, and forms a dense canopy that suppresses weeds naturally, meaning no need for herbicides. It thrives without pesticides or fertilisers, requires minimal water, and improves soil health as it grows. Essentially, hemp takes care of itself, which is more than can be said for most crops. This makes it an eco-friendly option that supports biodiversity and reduces the environmental impact of agriculture.

For those of us who care about sustainability (and let’s face it, we all should), feeding birds with hemp seeds is a small but meaningful way to contribute to greener farming. At A Little Bird Co., we’re proud to include hemp in our blends because it aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting wildlife while respecting the planet.

Nutritional Benefits of Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds are packed with nutrients that birds need to thrive. They contain an optimal ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, which support healthy feathers, skin, and immune function. These seeds are also rich in protein, essential amino acids, magnesium, zinc, iron, and vitamin E - all crucial for maintaining strong muscles, glossy plumage, and overall vitality.

Their crunchy texture and nutty flavour are loved by many species, including chaffinches, nuthatches, sparrows, blue tits, and finches. If you’ve ever wondered why your garden suddenly feels like Heathrow Airport after adding a seed blend with hemp to your feeder - it’s because birds flock to it!

How Hemp Supports British Birds

Hemp seeds attract a wide variety of seed-eating garden birds. Chaffinches and sparrows love them for their high-fat content, while blue tits benefit from the protein boost during busy breeding seasons or cold winter days. Nuthatches and finches also enjoy hemp seeds as part of their diet, especially when mixed with other seeds like sunflower hearts.

During moulting periods or harsh winters when natural food sources are scarce, hemp provides essential nutrients that help birds maintain their strength and resilience. At A Little Bird Co., we include hemp in our seasonal blends because it’s one of the best ways to support birds during these tricky times. Whether they’re raising chicks in spring or building fat reserves for winter survival, hemp helps keep them in top condition year-round.

A Little Bird Co.’s Seasonal Blends

We use a small quantity of hemp in several of our blends at A Little Bird Co. because it’s such a versatile ingredient. For example:

  • The Nesting Blend includes hempseed to provide protein during the breeding season when birds need extra energy for courtship displays and egg-laying.

  • The Fall Into Winter Blend uses hemp to help birds build fat reserves as they prepare for colder days ahead.

  • The Fledglings and Feathers Blend features hempseed as a key ingredient to support young birds during their first moult and transition into adulthood.

Every mix is carefully crafted to meet the specific needs of birds during each season while ensuring they get the best possible nutrition from sustainable ingredients like hemp.

Why Hemp Matters Now More Than Ever

As we face increasing environmental challenges like climate change, habitat loss, and declining biodiversity, small actions like choosing sustainable bird food can make a big difference. Hemp isn’t just good for birds; it’s good for the planet too. By including hemp in your feeder mix, you’re supporting eco-friendly farming practices that reduce chemical use and promote healthier ecosystems.

Plus, let’s not forget how rewarding it is to watch happy birds flocking to your garden! There’s something deeply satisfying about knowing you’re helping wildlife thrive while enjoying their antics from your window (or garden bench if you’re lucky enough to have one).

Beyond the birds, hemp is incredibly versatile. It’s used to make textiles, ropes, and even construction materials like hempcrete, which is fire-resistant and durable. Hemp oil is used in cosmetics and cooking, and we can eat the seeds as a nutritious addition to salads or smoothies. Hemp is also being explored for its potential in biofuels and water purification, making it a true multi-purpose crop that benefits both humans and the environment

Hemp might have a controversial reputation thanks to its association with cannabis but when it comes to bird food, it’s nothing short of brilliant. Its nutritional benefits make it a favourite among British garden birds like chaffinches and blue tits while its sustainable cultivation supports eco-friendly farming practices that benefit all of us.

At A Little Bird Co., we believe in feeding birds responsibly, using high-quality ingredients that support their health without compromising the environment. Hemp ticks all the boxes: nutritious, sustainable and loved by birds! So next time you’re filling up your feeder or ordering one of our seasonal blends remember - you’re not just feeding birds; you’re making a positive impact on the planet too!

Meet the author!

Clare Cahill is an enthusiastic bird lover with a passion for observing and learning about the incredible variety of birds around us. While she doesn’t have a formal degree in ornithology, Clare has dedicated countless hours to reading birding books and exploring nature, constantly expanding her knowledge and deepening her love for wildlife.

For Clare, birdwatching brings a sense of calm and connection to the world, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. She believes that the more we connect with nature, the more we can do to protect and conserve it. Through her writing, Clare hopes to inspire others to take a moment to pause, look up, and appreciate the wonderful birds that share our spaces.

Meet Clare

The seasonal bird food brand

We're a little company, supporting little birds. Find out more about what sets us apart.

  • Seasonal

    Birds have different dietary needs throughout the year, from nesting to moulting and surviving colder months. To support these changes, we’ve created seasonal blends – order a Seasonal Bird Food bag, and we’ll adjust the blend to match the season, making it easy to do something great for the birds.

  • Sustainable

    Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We don't farm, process, and transport cheap filler ingredients that birds simply kick to the floor. Instead, we focus on premium ingredients they love. Our packaging is compostable, and our bird feeders and nest boxes are tested for durability and longevity.

  • Songbird

    We design our food and select our range of feeders with little birds in mind. Every ingredient in our blends is chosen because small birds love it, simplifying your bird feeding routine. Our feeders provide safe access to food while helping to keep out larger, more dominant species. Look out for robins, blue tits, wrens, finches and more visiting your garden for our food.

  • Support

    With birds in your garden, you’re never alone - they’re the friends who always visit. Feeding them supports wildlife conservation while bringing joy and calm. Whether spotting a new species or simply watching their daily routines, just ten minutes a day strengthens your connection with nature and boosts your wellbeing.

When life feels busy, the birds keep it simple.

There’s something lovely about how feeding the birds becomes part of the rhythm of your day. A scoop of seed, a clean dish of water - and then a pause, just to watch who turns up. It doesn’t have to take long, but those moments can be surprisingly grounding. A little burst of mindfulness, fresh air, a chance to notice your garden as it changes throughout the seasons, and the cheerful flutter of wings - it’s good for the soul.

Join our flock of bird enthusiasts who share a passion for sustainable and thoughtful bird feeding.

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From our popular seasonal bird food to the Squirrel Buster squirrel resistant bird feeder, our range is designed to help you to create a haven for little birds in your garden.