Do Foxes Really Eat Bird Seed?

For those who enjoy feeding backyard birds, a visit from a fox can be alarming. Seeing a fox snooping around the bird feeders or bird bath may make you wonder – do foxes eat bird seed? Let’s take a close look at the fox diet and feeding behavior to determine if bird seed is on the menu.

Frequency of Entities

• Foxes: 18
• Bird seed: 12
• Backyard birds: 8
• Bird feeders: 10
• Sunflower seeds: 5
• Natural fox diet: 6
• Small mammals: 4
• Insects: 3
• Fruits: 2
• Bird safety: 4
• Coexistence: 3

Understanding the Fox Diet

Foxes are opportunistic omnivores with a diverse natural diet. Their preferred foods include:

• Small mammals like mice, voles, rabbits
• Insects
• Fruits and berries
• Birds and eggs

While foxes will eat almost anything they can find, bird seed is not a typical part of their diet It lacks the protein and nutrients that foxes require to thrive.

Why Foxes May Be Interested in Bird Feeders

So if bird seed isn’t their natural food, why are foxes attracted to backyard bird feeders? Here are a few reasons:

• Spilled seed on the ground – Foxes are drawn to the easy picking of spilled sunflower seeds, millet and other bird seed.

• Presence of rodents – Rats and mice are attracted to the seed below feeders. Their scent and activity in turn attracts hunting foxes.

• Accessible water source – Foxes are drawn to backyard bird baths as a water source.

• Shelter – Foxes may rest under deck or patio areas near feeders and baths.

Risks of Foxes at Bird Feeders

While not actively hunting birds, foxes at feeders can pose some risks:

• Deter birds from feeding – Birds may avoid feeders where foxes are present.

• Expose birds to predators – Birds startled by foxes risk becoming prey.

• Spread disease – Foxes can transmit diseases to birds through contaminated water or surfaces.

• Consume bait meant for rodents – Foxes may eat rodent bait placed around feeders.

Deterring Foxes from Bird Feeders

To discourage fox visits, try these tips:

• Clean spilled seed – Eliminate easy food sources foxes are drawn to.

• Use deterrents – Products with predator urine, hot pepper, or garlic may repel foxes.

• Remove shelter – Trim vegetation and block access under decks/patios.

• Protect feeders – Hang or pole-mount feeders to make inaccessible.

• Use fox-proof feeders – Specialty feeders prevent access.

• Add lighting – Motion sensor lights may startle and deter foxes.

Providing Alternate Food Sources

One strategy is offering fox-friendly food sources away from bird feeders:

• Fruit/veggie garden – Plant berries, melons, tomatoes.

• Compost pile – Provide insects/rodents.

• Dedicated feeding area – Supply dog food, raw meats, eggs away from birds.

• Natural habitats – Provide optimal shelter and native food plants.

Ensuring Bird Safety

When foxes are drawn to your yard, focus on keeping birds safe:

• Place feeders in open areas for visibility.

• Choose feeders with weight that resist toppling.

• Use screened bottom trays to catch fallen seeds.

• Put up roosting boxes/structures for quick escape.

Promoting Positive Coexistence

Both birds and foxes provide enjoyment and benefits for a balanced backyard ecosystem. Follow these tips for positive coexistence:

• Learn fox behavior patterns and schedules.

• Monitor activity to identify problem areas.

• Eliminate food attractants.

• Use deterrents selectively and temporarily.

• Provide natural, native food sources for foxes.

• Educate neighbors to manage attractants.

• Appreciate role of foxes in controlling pests.

The Verdict on Foxes Eating Bird Seed

While foxes do not actively hunt backyard birds, they will take advantage of easily available food sources like spilled bird seed. Limit accessibility to seed, offer fox-friendly habitats nearby, and take steps to keep birds safe. This allows both birds and foxes to peacefully coexist and thrive. With proper management, you can enjoy the benefits of both birds and foxes in your backyard.