Black oil sunflower seed is the preferred seed for birds for several reasons. Firstly, it has a higher oil content compared to striped sunflower seeds. This higher oil content provides birds with more nutrition, as oil is a concentrated source of energy. Birds need a sufficient amount of energy to maintain their high metabolic rate, especially during cold winter months or during migration periods. By consuming black oil sunflower seeds, birds can obtain more calories per bite, which helps them meet their energy requirements more efficiently.
In addition to the higher oil content, black oil sunflower seeds also have a thinner shell compared to striped sunflower seeds. This thinner shell makes it easier for birds to crack open and access the nutritious seed inside. Birds expend less energy while eating black oil sunflower seeds due to the ease of cracking the shell, allowing them to conserve energy for other activities such as flying, foraging, or mating.
The preference for black oil sunflower seeds is not only limited to wild birds but also extends to captive birds, such as those kept as pets or in aviaries. I have personally observed this preference in my own backyard, where I have a bird feeder filled with a mixture of different bird seeds. I have noticed that the black oil sunflower seeds are often the first to be consumed by a variety of bird species, including chickadees, finches, and woodpeckers.
Furthermore, black oil sunflower seeds are highly versatile and attract a wide variety of bird species. Many different birds, such as cardinals, jays, nuthatches, and sparrows, are attracted to black oil sunflower seeds, making it a popular choice among bird enthusiasts. This versatility makes it an excellent seed option for those who want to attract a diverse range of bird species to their feeders.
It is worth mentioning that striped sunflower seeds are not entirely undesirable for birds. Some bird species, such as larger birds like blue jays or squirrels, may still consume striped sunflower seeds if they are readily available. However, for most bird species, black oil sunflower seeds are the preferred choice due to their higher oil content, increased calorie density, and easier accessibility.
Birds prefer black oil sunflower seeds over striped sunflower seeds due to the higher oil content, increased calorie density, and easier cracking of the thinner shell. The preference for black oil sunflower seeds is observed in both wild and captive bird populations, and it attracts a wide variety of bird species. By providing black oil sunflower seeds in bird feeders, bird enthusiasts can ensure that they are providing nutritious and energy-rich food for their feathered visitors.