Is It OK To Feed Almonds To Birds?

If you’re a bird enthusiast, you’ve probably wondered about expanding your feeder menu beyond the usual seeds and suet. Almonds, with their rich flavor and nutrition, might seem like a tempting treat to share with your backyard visitors. But is it safe to feed almonds to birds? Let’s explore the ins and outs of this nutty question and how Birdsview can help you observe the results.

The Short Answer: Yes, But With Caution

Almonds can be a healthy treat for many wild birds, but there are a few caveats. Birds like jays, woodpeckers, chickadees, and titmice often enjoy nuts, and almonds offer protein, healthy fats, and vitamins. However, not all almonds are created equal, and preparation matters.

  • Unsalted and Raw: Only offer raw, unsalted almonds. Salted, roasted, or flavored almonds contain additives like salt, sugar, or spices that can harm birds’ delicate systems.
  • Whole or Crushed: Smaller birds may struggle with whole almonds, so consider crushing them into smaller pieces. Larger species, like crows or blue jays, can handle whole nuts with ease.
  • Moderation is Key: Almonds are high in fat, which is great for energy, especially in winter, but too much can lead to obesity or digestive issues in birds. Mix them with other foods like sunflower seeds or peanuts in your feeder.


What to Avoid

  • Bitter Almonds: These contain trace amounts of cyanide and are toxic to birds (and humans!). Stick to sweet almonds, the kind sold for human consumption.
  • Moldy Nuts: Almonds that have gone bad can harbor aflatoxins, a dangerous fungus. Always store them in a dry, cool place and check for freshness before offering them.


Birdsview: Watching Almond Fans in Action

Curious which birds in your backyard might enjoy almonds? The Birdsview smart bird feeder camera makes it easy to find out. With 2K high-resolution video and a 135° ultra-wide-angle lens, you can capture every peck in stunning detail. The AI recognition, identifying over 11,000 species, will tell you exactly who’s stopping by—whether it’s a nuthatch cracking an almond or a sparrow giving it a pass. Plus, the 2.6L large capacity container lets you mix almonds with other bird foods, and its drainage design keeps everything dry and fresh, even in rainy weather.

How to Offer Almonds Safely

  • Mix It Up: Add a handful of crushed almonds to your Birdsview feeder alongside seeds or corn. The included DIY perch or fruit fork add-ons are perfect for presenting small nut pieces to attract a variety of species.
  • Monitor Reactions: Use the Birdsview VicoHome app to watch live footage and get instant notifications when birds visit. If you spot any unusual behavior, adjust your offerings. You can even use the Two-Way Audio to listen to their chirps—or scare off squirrels trying to steal the stash!
  • Save and Share: Record the almond-loving action with lifetime free 3-day loop cloud storage and share the fun with friends and family via the app.


The Verdict

Yes, it’s OK to feed almonds to birds—as long as they’re raw, unsalted, and offered sparingly. They’re a nutritious treat that can add variety to your feeder and attract nut-loving species. With Birdsview’s smart features, you can experiment safely, watch how birds respond, and enjoy the show from anywhere. So go ahead, toss a few almonds into the mix, and let your backyard become a gourmet hotspot for feathered friends!Happy birding,
The Birdsview Team.

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