Black oil sunflower seeds are a popular choice among those who feed backyard birds. These seeds come from a specific cultivar of the common sunflower plant, Helianthus annuus, primarily grown for oil production and as bird feed. Their availability and appeal make them a favorite for attracting diverse birds to feeders.
Why Birds Prefer Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
Birds strongly prefer black oil sunflower seeds due to several key features. Unlike striped sunflower seeds, black oil varieties possess thinner shells, making them significantly easier for many bird species to crack open and access the nutritious kernel inside. This ease of access means birds expend less energy to obtain their food.
These seeds are also highly valued for their nutritional content, particularly their high oil and fat content (up to 40%). This provides an energy-dense food source, providing essential energy for daily activities, especially in colder months or during breeding. Black oil sunflower seeds also contain protein, fiber, calcium, iron, and vitamins, making them a well-rounded food source.
Common Birds That Eat Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
Black oil sunflower seeds are a primary attractant for a vast range of backyard birds.
Small, agile birds like chickadees (such as Black-capped and Carolina chickadees) and titmice (including Tufted titmice) are frequent visitors, appreciating the thin shells that allow them to easily crack the seeds. Nuthatches, known for their ability to climb trees headfirst, also regularly feed on black oil sunflower seeds.
Finches, a diverse group, are strongly drawn to these seeds. American goldfinches, house finches, and purple finches are commonly observed at feeders offering black oil sunflower seeds. Even though goldfinches have bills better suited for smaller seeds like thistle, they often prefer sunflower seeds due to their rich nutritional value.
Larger birds, such as Northern cardinals and various jays (like Blue Jays), are also prominent consumers of black oil sunflower seeds. Their stronger beaks efficiently handle the shells. Woodpeckers, including Downy, Hairy, and Red-bellied woodpeckers, frequently visit feeders for these seeds, often carrying them off to crack against tree bark.
Ground-feeding birds like mourning doves and various sparrows (including house sparrows) also benefit from black oil sunflower seeds. They often forage for spilled seeds beneath feeders. Grosbeaks, pine siskins, and buntings are also attracted to this versatile seed.
Best Ways to Offer Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
Effective feeding involves selecting appropriate feeder types and placement. Tube feeders with small perches are suitable for smaller birds like finches and chickadees. Hopper feeders, which store a larger volume of seeds and protect them from weather, are also an excellent choice.
Platform or tray feeders offer an open feeding surface, which is ideal for larger birds such as cardinals and doves, and can attract a greater variety of species. Place feeders in a semi-protected area near natural cover like trees or shrubs, but also visible for observation. Regular cleaning of feeders is necessary to prevent the spread of disease and ensure a healthy feeding environment for birds.
Managing Challenges When Feeding Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
While beneficial, black oil sunflower seeds present some challenges. A common issue is discarded shells beneath feeders, which create a mess and potentially damage grass or landscaping. This mess can also attract such as rodents.
To mitigate the shell mess, some opt for hulled sunflower seeds, also known as sunflower hearts or chips, which eliminate the shells entirely, though they are typically more expensive and may spoil faster. Another challenge is attracting non-avian guests, like squirrels and raccoons, who are also drawn to the high-energy seeds. Using squirrel-resistant feeders or placing feeders away from jumping-off points can help deter these animals.
The seeds can also germinate beneath feeders, leading to unwanted sunflower sprouts, which can be managed by regularly cleaning up fallen seeds or rotating feeder locations.