Feeding birds is an enjoyable pastime enjoyed by many and should only attract desired species such as starlings, sparrows or blackbirds to your feeders. When selecting seed varieties for this purpose it is crucial that they don’t attract unwanted nuisances like starlings, sparrows or blackbirds that may contaminate it.
If you want to reduce the mess shell waste leaves behind, no-mess blends may help reduce waste by offering seeds that birds prefer without sunflower hearts and chips that squirrels adore.
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Rapeseed
Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) is an extremely useful crop with high fatty acid content, boasting omega-3 fatty acids that promote heart health and cognitive development, along with omega-6 fatty acids for skin, hair and bone development. Furthermore, rapeseed may help lower inflammation levels to protect against chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
Polyphenols abound, including antioxidants like anthocyanins and kaempferol, and glucosinolates, both of which possess powerful anti-inflammatory, antiviral and hypoglycemic properties.
Rapeseed oil stands out among other oils by having the lowest levels of saturated fat and being an excellent source of vitamin E, both known to help lower cholesterol. Furthermore, its high cooking point and higher temperature tolerance make it suitable for frying or roasting vegetables and meats while its mild flavor allows other ingredients to shine through; making it an excellent addition to salad dressings!
Canary Seed
Historically, canary seed (Phalaris canariensis) was mixed with cheaper seeds such as rapeseed to make it more appealing for caged and wild birds alike. Today however, canary seed is often grown alone as a bird feed crop in Canada, Mexico, and Belgium.
Canary seed contains an abundance of enzymes, particularly lipase, which aids the body by breaking down fat in circulation systems and decreasing caloric intake. Furthermore, this lipase-rich fruit increases energy levels while increasing serotonin production thereby curbing eating impulses.
Canary seeds contain phenolic acids like ferulic acid, caffeic acid and coumaric acid which have been demonstrated to exhibit antihypertensive, antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. Furthermore, glabrous canary seed produces high concentrations of glutamic acid which may offer potential health benefits by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) production in the brain – GABA is known to help reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol and fight cancer cells[2]
Sunflower Seed
Sunflower seeds (Helianthus annuus) feature an exceptional reproductive structure. Each center disk of each seed contains hundreds of inflorescences which self-pollinate and produce one kernel per flower, enclosed within a protective seed casing made up of black or striped spots – whether for human consumption as snacks or livestock feed.
Sunflower seed is an nutrient-rich food, boasting protein, fiber, fats, antioxidants, vitamins (such as E and zinc) and heart-healthy fatty acids. Furthermore, sunflower seeds contain phytochemicals including phenolic compounds and saponins which possess strong antifungal and antioxidant properties.
Sunflower seeds contain chlorogenic acid which improves glucose and lipid metabolism and can help control blood sugar levels in diabetics. Furthermore, chlorogenic acid helps prevent and treat hypothyroidism – when your thyroid doesn’t function normally – as well as providing essential folate and vitamin E that are essential for pregnant women’s health, helping prevent issues like spina bifida or low birth weight in pregnancy.
Safflower Seed
Safflower seeds resemble sunflower seeds but feature a thicker shell that some birds find challenging to break open. Cardinals and grosbeaks especially love them while finches also enjoy these tasty morsels with a slightly bitter taste that helps repel squirrels – ideal alone or mixed in with other seed types for use!
Safflower seeds provide an excellent source of protein and oils, both to birds and humans alike. Linolenic and linoleic acids found in safflower oil could potentially prevent hardening of the arteries while simultaneously helping lower cholesterol levels.
Safflower seeds should be offered in larger hopper, tube and platform feeders that provide ample perching space. You can also sprinkle them near shrubby areas of your yard or garden to attract ground-feeding species like doves. By mixing it into other seed mixes you may attract both new visitors and keep current ones coming back for more of the same.
