When it comes to bird feeding, many of us are familiar with the common offerings of sunflower seeds and suet. However, there’s another option that’s gaining popularity among bird enthusiasts: safflower seeds. But what do birds eat safflower seeds, and why should you consider adding them to your bird feeder?
What Birds Eat Safflower Seeds?
Safflower seeds are a type of seed that’s native to North America, and they’re a favorite among many bird species. While they’re not as high in fat as sunflower seeds, safflower seeds are a nutritious and energy-rich food source that many birds love to eat. In fact, safflower seeds are often used as a substitute for sunflower seeds because they’re less likely to attract squirrels and other mammals that can be a nuisance at bird feeders.
Which Birds Eat Safflower Seeds?
Many bird species eat safflower seeds, including finches, sparrows, and cardinals. Some of the most common birds that eat safflower seeds include:
- Finches: Goldfinches, Purple Finches, and House Finches all love safflower seeds.
- Sparrows: Song Sparrows, White-throated Sparrows, and American Tree Sparrows are all fans of safflower seeds.
- Cardinals: Northern Cardinals and Summer Tanagers both enjoy snacking on safflower seeds.
- Other birds: Many other bird species, including doves, robins, and blue jays, will also eat safflower seeds.
Why Should You Offer Safflower Seeds?
Offering safflower seeds can be a great way to attract a variety of bird species to your yard, and they’re a good option if you’re looking for a seed that’s less likely to attract squirrels. Safflower seeds are also a good choice if you’re looking for a seed that’s high in nutrients and energy. Plus, they’re relatively inexpensive and easy to find at most bird seed stores.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at which birds eat safflower seeds, why you should consider offering them, and how to get started with safflower seed bird feeding.
What Birds Eat Safflower Seeds
Safflower seeds are a popular choice among bird enthusiasts and gardeners as a bird-friendly alternative to sunflower seeds. While many bird species enjoy safflower seeds, not all birds can digest them. In this article, we’ll explore which birds eat safflower seeds and why they’re a great option for attracting birds to your yard.
Why Safflower Seeds are a Good Choice
Safflower seeds are a great choice for bird feeders because they’re less likely to attract unwanted visitors, such as squirrels and raccoons. These seeds are also high in protein and fat, making them a nutritious option for birds. Additionally, safflower seeds are less likely to spoil or become rancid, making them a convenient choice for bird enthusiasts. (See Also: Why Do Birds Eat Grass Seed)
Birds that Eat Safflower Seeds
While many bird species enjoy safflower seeds, some birds are more particular about their diet than others. Here are some birds that commonly eat safflower seeds:
- Finches: Finches, such as goldfinches and sparrows, love safflower seeds. They’re a great option for attracting these birds to your yard.
- Cardinals: Cardinals are known to eat safflower seeds, especially during the winter months when other food sources are scarce.
- Doves: Mourning doves and white-winged doves both enjoy safflower seeds.
- Blue Jays: Blue jays are known to eat safflower seeds, especially during the fall and winter months.
- Woodpeckers: Some woodpeckers, such as downy woodpeckers and hairy woodpeckers, eat safflower seeds.
Birds that Don’t Eat Safflower Seeds
Not all birds can digest safflower seeds. Here are some birds that typically don’t eat safflower seeds:
- Squirrels: Squirrels are notorious for stealing bird seed, but they can’t digest safflower seeds.
- Raccoons: Raccoons are also known to raid bird feeders, but they can’t eat safflower seeds.
- Blackbirds: Blackbirds, such as red-winged blackbirds and European starlings, don’t typically eat safflower seeds.
- Grackles: Grackles are known to eat sunflower seeds, but they don’t typically eat safflower seeds.
Why Some Birds Don’t Eat Safflower Seeds
Some birds may not eat safflower seeds because they’re not adapted to digest them. Safflower seeds are high in protein and fat, which can be difficult for some birds to digest. Additionally, safflower seeds have a hard outer shell that can be difficult for some birds to crack open.
How to Offer Safflower Seeds to Birds
Offering safflower seeds to birds is easy and fun! Here are a few tips:
Choose the Right Feeder: Look for a feeder that’s specifically designed for safflower seeds. These feeders usually have a mesh or screen that allows the seeds to fall through, making it easier for birds to access them.
Use the Right Amount of Seed: Start with a small amount of safflower seeds and gradually increase the amount as needed. You don’t want to overwhelm the birds with too much seed.
Keep the Feeder Clean: Make sure to clean your feeder regularly to prevent mold and mildew from growing. This will help keep the birds healthy and happy.
Conclusion
Safflower seeds are a great option for bird enthusiasts who want to attract birds to their yard without attracting unwanted visitors. By offering safflower seeds in the right feeder and in the right amount, you can attract a variety of bird species to your yard. Remember to keep your feeder clean and enjoy the show!
Recap
In this article, we explored the benefits of safflower seeds for birds and which birds eat them. We also discussed why some birds may not eat safflower seeds and how to offer them to birds. Here’s a quick recap:
- Safflower seeds are a great choice for bird feeders because they’re less likely to attract unwanted visitors.
- Finches, cardinals, doves, blue jays, and woodpeckers commonly eat safflower seeds.
- Squirrels, raccoons, blackbirds, and grackles typically don’t eat safflower seeds.
- Some birds may not eat safflower seeds because they’re not adapted to digest them.
- Choose the right feeder, use the right amount of seed, and keep the feeder clean to offer safflower seeds to birds.
We hope you found this article helpful in learning more about safflower seeds and which birds eat them. Happy birding!
Here are five FAQs related to “What Birds Eat Safflower Seeds”:
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of birds eat safflower seeds?
Safflower seeds are a favorite among many bird species, including finches, sparrows, cardinals, chickadees, and titmice. They are also eaten by some larger birds like doves and quail. However, it’s worth noting that safflower seeds are not a preferred food source for many larger birds, such as blue jays, woodpeckers, and squirrels.
Are safflower seeds a good alternative to sunflower seeds?
Yes, safflower seeds are often considered a good alternative to sunflower seeds because they are less likely to attract squirrels and other unwanted visitors. Safflower seeds also have a slightly bitter taste that some birds find unappealing, which can help reduce the number of birds that visit your feeder.
Can I mix safflower seeds with other birdseed types?
Yes, you can definitely mix safflower seeds with other birdseed types to create a blend that attracts a variety of bird species. Mixing safflower seeds with thistle or nyjer seeds can attract finches and other small birds, while mixing them with millet or corn can attract sparrows and other ground-dwelling birds.
Do safflower seeds spoil easily?
Safflower seeds are relatively durable and can withstand exposure to the elements for several weeks. However, they can still spoil if they get wet or are exposed to extreme temperatures. It’s a good idea to store safflower seeds in a dry, cool place to keep them fresh for as long as possible.
Can I use safflower seeds in my bird feeder?
Yes, safflower seeds can be used in a variety of bird feeders, including tube feeders, hopper feeders, and tray feeders. They are also a good choice for suet feeders, as they can be mixed with other ingredients like nuts and seeds to create a nutritious and tasty treat for birds.