If seeds become slightly moist, they may either begin the germination process and sprout, or they could develop mould. In either scenario, the seeds become unsuitable for feeding to birds. Therefore, it is crucial to always keep the seeds completely dry to ensure they can be fed to birds without any issues.

Naturally, there are limitations to how much this can be achieved, especially during the summer months. The more effectively you can maintain a cool environment for stored bird food, the more you enhance the seed's longevity and maintain its quality. Optimal storage for your bird food involves utilising a garage or a similar out-building, where the absence of heating and a concrete floor contribute to a consistently lower temperature. It's worth noting that timber sheds and greenhouses are not ideal choices, as they tend to become heated when exposed to direct sunlight.

When utilising an out-building to store your bird food, it's important to note that mice and rats can be drawn to it unless it's securely stored in an airtight container. These rodents not only consume the food but can also introduce contamination to the remaining stock. Thus, it is imperative to maintain the freshness and hygiene of the bird food by using well-sealed containers, as exemplified here.

For the majority of individuals, this isn't a concern since their garden birds typically prevent the food from being stored for extended periods. However, if there's a situation where your supply is exceeding the demand, it's advisable to maintain a stock that covers no more than six months.

Use Food Storage Buckets, designed as airtight plastic containers, represent an excellent choice. When combined with the aforementioned factors, these containers guarantee the preservation of your bird food in optimal condition.