The seed of the African yellow daisy, Guizotia abyssinica, Nyjer is known by many names. The birdseed was originally called niger in reference to Nigeria and the plant’s geographic origin. The name was trademarked as Nyjer, to clarify proper pronunciation (NYE-jerr).
Because of import taxes and the cost of sterilizing the seed, Nyjer is one of the most expensive types of birdseed to offer. Buying Nyjer in bulk is often more cost-effective than smaller quantities, and excess Nyjer can be safely stored for weeks in a cool, dry place.
Birders can make the seed even more affordable by adding Nyjer to a birdseed mix rather than feeding it straight. Another popular option is to offer Nyjer in specialized feeders to prevent spills and restrict access to the seeds to only the most desirable birds. Tube feeders with narrow feeding ports, wire mesh feeders, and mesh socks are popular Nyjer feeder designs perfect for small, clinging finches but less suitable for larger birds that may empty feeders more quickly.