Frequently Asked Questions

What does the term “GMO” mean?

"GMO" means "Genetically Modified Organisms" — Plants or animals that have been genetically engineered with DNA from bacteria, viruses, or other plants and animals.

I have noticed that when I am feeding In-Shell Peanuts to my Blue jays, they will pick one up, drop it, and pick up another one. What is going on?

Nature has proven to us time and time again that animals know what the best food for them is. The jays are searching and hunting for the heaviest peanuts. Some of the shells could be empty, therefore leaving them behind for a complete meal.

I want to attract Cardinals. What type of feeder do I use?

Cardinals prefer a solid or stationary type of feeder. They also need a "landing pad", or a feeder with a large enough perch for them to feel comfortable. Cardinals are more frequently seen at dawn & dusk. Sunflower, Safflower, and NutraSafflower are their favorite seeds.

What is the easiest way to deter grackles and starlings?

Firstly, with the type of feeder. They cannot cling easily and because they are a larger bird, you can buy feeders with adjustable weight settings to close the ports.

Secondly, with the type of feeds you fill your feeders with. Those birds will empty a feeder searching for peanuts or nuts. Safflower, with its hard outer shell, is a alternative feed that will still attract finches, cardinals, and chickadees, but typically grackles and starlings don’t like.

What is the difference between Safflower and Nutra-Safflower (Golden Safflower)?

Traditional Safflower has a hard white outer shell that the birds will crack apart to eat. Nutra-Safflower is a hybrid, which is higher in oil, protein, and fat (which birds convert to energy). The Nutra- Safflower is typically brown or rust colored, but not to be confused with a low quality, stained traditional safflower. It has a thin outer hull which means less mess at your feeders and is easier for the birds to digest.

I’m concerned about the health of the songbirds and wildlife I’m feeding...

All the grains used in our mixes are non-GMO with the exception of one or two specialty items. Our corn has been non-GMO since 2010. Besides offering non-GMO seeds, our grains are frequently tested for nutrition and quality to be sure they meet our high standards.

What is the best way to attract Finches?

Purple finches and house finches are less discriminating. The Gold Finch is much fussier and definitely prefer Audubon Brand Nyjer & Hearts, which is a mixture of re-cleaned Nyjer and Fine Sunflower Hearts. Park View Outdoor Finch Mix is another favorite with several the different Millets as well as Nyjer and Fine Sunflower Hearts.

Can I put feed on the ground?

Yes, it will attract a wide verity of creatures to your feeder area. Des Moines Feed Co. also offers small animal mixes for additional enjoyment.

How often should I change the drinking water?

It should be done twice a day. Once in the A.M. and P.M. Water hydrates the muscles and oxygen.

How much should I feed my pigeons?

We recommend feeding 1-11/2 0z per serving. This also depends on the season and how often you are training.

Why is NON-GMO important to pigeons?

The grains we select offer no pesticides to treat weeds and other non grain activate.

How should I store my feed?

Put your feed a pallet to keep it off the ground. This will help reduce moisture and allow air movment. The most important is COOL AND DRY....

What should I feed my specific pigeons?

We have a pigeon chart that will help determine the kind of feed that's best for your pigeon's. Please view this under our pigeon tab. Or call us with any questions 515-262-8265 ask for the pigeon guy!!

Why do you have so many mixes?

Our feed should be used like a program for a professional athlete. They all require a little something different depending on their body's.

What's different about your pellets? My flyers just go crazy for them?

We don't offer a pellet with non grain or GMO products or something you can't put on the tag. Everyhing we offer is healthy for the pigeons.

Packaging and shipping

Every order is placed on a wood pallet free of nails. A single sheet of cardboard is cut and placed on the pallet to help prevent equipment from puncturing your product. The pallet is then wrapped with cardboard and shrink wrapped. We use a machine to wrap each pallet. This helps reduce sliding during transit.