If there is one type of birdseed that can be called a “star” among backyard bird feeders in North America, it is sunflower seeds. Whether you are an experienced birdwatcher or just starting out, you will find them in your bird feeder. But why have these seemingly ordinary seeds become the favorite of wild birds? Let's take a closer look.
Sunflower seeds are rich in fat, protein, and carbohydrates, making them an ideal food for birds to replenish their energy during different seasons, especially autumn and winter. Their high fat content provides birds with more calories, helping them maintain their body temperature and activity levels in cold climates. For migratory birds, a small sunflower seed is like an "energy bar" for their journey.
Sunflower seeds are appealing because they attract almost all types of birds, including cardinals, goldfinches, jays, woodpeckers, sparrows, and titmice. None of these birds can resist this food. Black oil sunflower seeds are particularly popular for backyard bird feeding because of their thin shells, ease of opening, and high oil content.
Sunflower seeds have hard shells and can be stored at room temperature for long periods of time without spoiling. This makes them ideal for outdoor bird feeding. You can place them in tube or platform feeders or scatter them directly on a tray with little preparation. Pre-shelled seeds, such as sunflower kernels, are also a good option because they are waste-free. Waste-free mixtures typically include nuts and shelled seeds. Since these mixtures are 100% edible, they leave no empty shells or mess behind. However, compared to shelled sunflower seeds, seeds without protective shells lose freshness faster. When using pre-shelled seeds, keep the feeder location dry. It is recommended to use a roofed feeder, such as the [Cute Cat Bird Feeder] and [House Bird Feeder].
Sunflower seeds are already quite popular, but you can mix them with other ingredients, such as crushed peanuts, dried fruit, or Nyjer seeds, to create a "bird buffet" that will attract a wider variety of birds. This combination feeding method is an excellent choice for birdwatchers who want to observe diverse bird species.
Sunflower seeds have become the "most popular choice" for feeding wild birds. They are nutrient-rich, highly palatable, convenient to use, and versatile. Whether you want to help resident birds survive the winter or attract migratory birds during their seasonal migration, a bag of high-quality sunflower seeds will make your bird feeder bustle with activity. The next time you restock your bird feeder, consider adding more sunflower seeds to make your backyard a popular dining spot for birds.