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Shell free bird seed11/24/2023 ![]() ![]() As a smaller type of sunflower seed, black oil seeds are also more economical because a single bag will contain more seeds than a similarly sized bag of striped sunflower seeds. These seeds are also often formed into seed blocks and cakes, often with whimsical shapes such as hearts, bells, or wreaths for holidays.īlack oil sunflower seeds have thin shells and a high oil content that appeals to the majority of bird species, including cardinals, chickadees, sparrows, finches, titmice, woodpeckers, grosbeaks, and jays. A key component of many birdseed mixes, black oil sunflower seeds are also available without other seeds mixed in. Lowest cost medium-size grain, attracts many types of birdsĮasily available source, rich in protein and fiberīlack oil sunflower seeds are the single most popular seed for different bird species. Lower cost small grain, attracts small-beaked birdsĭoes not work in mesh feeders or small tubes Teeny seeds create mess, needs specific types of feeders ![]() ![]() Higher cost small seed, attracts small-beaked birds Superior source of fat, fiber, protein, and vitamins Higher cost shell-free seed, attracts many types of birds Uncommon seed, birds need time to get used to the taste Packed with nutrition, very squirrel-proof Higher cost with thick shell, attracts songbirds Higher cost with thick shell, attracts large birds Highest cost seed with thin shell, popular with all types of birds Below, we’ll break down the different types of birdseed and what to consider when choosing which is best for your outdoor feeder. Elaborate mixes are often marketed as bird-specific, such as a "songbird mix" or "finch mix" depending on what seeds are included. These mixes may even contain bits of dried fruit, dried mealworms, or other exceptional treats that appeal to some bird species. Higher cost mixes often have more popular and desirable seeds, such as sunflower seeds or even sunflower hearts, pumpkin seeds, and nuts or nut hearts. These mixes can be cheaper and easy to use, but birders may see large quantities of waste as birds seek out favorite seeds in the mix. Wheat is a popular filler addition but has little nutritional value for birds. Inexpensive birdseed mixes typically contain large quantities of milo and millet, as well as smaller amounts of cracked corn, sunflower seeds, and other seeds or grain. There are many types of seed that can offer a food source to birds in need of an energy boost during migration and other times of the year. The Spruce Home Improvement Review Boardīirdseed for outdoor feeders is a nutritional supplement meant to cater to the general bird population, and some benefit specific species of birds.Order your bag of Lyric Sunflower Kernels today. You'll soon see the difference that high-quality kernels can make in beautifying your winter yardscape: an abundance of bird visitors and no shell mess on the ground. Be sure they are in a feeder, which protects them from moisture. When you fill your feeder with these nutrient-rich kernels, be sure and keep an eye on their condition. ![]() But this benefit also has a drawback: That means when moisture gets in, especially after a weather event, it hastens spoilage. Without the shells taking up real estate, your feeders will stay filled longer. When purchasing whole seeds, remember that you are also paying for the shell. While many birders have reached for the pre-shelled kernels because they want to avoid the mess, they have discovered yet another benefit as well: Pound for pound, buying kernels is a terrific value for your wallet. In fact, a more likely outcome is ground-feeding birds will come and gobble up the spillage! 4. Plus, sunflower kernels eliminate the worry that spilled shells might inhibit growth of garden plants and your grass. When kernels drop to the ground, there will be no unsightly weeds sprouting up in your lawn or nearby garden bed later this spring. (Even messier are bargain mixes, because birds will push out the milo and other cheap fillers so they can snatch up the nuggets they really want - such as sunflower seeds.) 3. Unfortunately, the result for you is a great mess of inedible black hulls beneath the feeder. The shell of a black-oil sunflower seed is thin and easy to open, even for small beaks, which is another reason bird lovers tout this food. These kernels contain a high amount of fat and nutrients to help songbirds get the fuel they need to get through snowfalls, brisk winds and cold nights. What can't be overlooked is the fact that sunflower seeds are the perfect food for winter birds on the lookout for something to eat amid the bleak winter landscapes. Though the larger bag of black-oil sunflower seeds may have a tempting price, you might want to rethink that purchase and reach for a brand that serves just the kernels. Filling your feeders with sunflower seeds is like rolling out the welcome mat to your neighborhood songbirds. ![]()
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