Royal Wing is a Tractor Supply brand, and its 40 lb Black Oil Sunflower Wild Bird Food is a single-seed food. Black oil sunflower is one of the best all-around seeds for backyard birds because the shell is thin and the kernel is rich in fat and calories.
Why black oil sunflower works
The small, thin-shelled seeds are easy for small birds to crack, and the high fat content helps them stay warm in winter and fuel migration. A single feeder of black oil sunflower can bring in cardinals, chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, finches, grosbeaks, woodpeckers and many other species. Hummingbirds, however, feed on nectar and will not eat seed.
Feeders that work
- Tube and hopper feeders keep seed dry and are easy to refill.
- Platform feeders allow larger birds like jays and grosbeaks to feed.
- Squirrel-resistant designs help, as squirrels love sunflower seed.
Storage and freshness
A 40 lb bag lasts a long time, and seed can go stale or get moldy. Store it in a sealed metal bin in a cool, dry place, and only fill feeders with what birds will eat in a few days. Discard seed that is damp, clumped or smells off. Hulls pile up under feeders, so rake them up to prevent mold and to protect lawn and plants.
Price and value
A single-seed 40 lb bag is often cheaper per pound than fancy mixes, and birds waste less than they do with filler-heavy blends. Check Tractor Supply for current pricing and bag size availability. For more choices, see wild bird seed at Tractor Supply and the Pennington black oil sunflower review.
Bottom Line
Black oil sunflower is the easiest way to start feeding backyard birds. A large Royal Wing bag is good value if you keep it dry and keep feeders clean.
