Why is black oil sunflower seed so expensive?

There Has Been an Increase in Sunflower Seed Demands The adjustment includes less vegetable oil and more sunflower oil, thus reducing the trans fat content of their foods. This means that black sunflower seeds, used to make sunflower oil and feed the birds, have become highly demanded, driving up the price.

Are all black oil sunflower seeds the same?

The seeds they produce are similar, however, and sunflower seed is a popular type of birdseed. When compared to striped sunflower seeds, black oil seeds are meatier and have a higher oil content, giving birds more nutrition and calories in every bite.

What do black oil sunflower seeds do for horses?

Black oil sunflower seeds, or BOSS, are more commonly fed to horses due to their higher oil content, better digestibility, and lower cost. BOSS have thinner hulls that are held more tightly to the kernel when compared to the thicker, non-oil seeds. Thinner hulls make BOSS easier for horses to chew and digest.

Can humans eat black oil sunflower seeds?

Black oil (aka oilseed) sunflower seeds – the most common type used in bird feed – are usually not considered edible by people as they can quickly turn rancid and can cause digestive upset.

Do squirrels eat black oil sunflower seeds?

Squirrels love black oil sunflower seeds, so if you don’t want them in your yard, avoid blends with sunflower seeds. Squirrels also love nuts in the shell, which are important to them in two ways.

How many pounds of sunflowers can you get per acre?

Sunflower seeds vary in size, so seeding rate based on weight must take into account seed size, but will be roughly 3 to 4 pounds per acre.

Do birds prefer black oil or striped sunflower seeds?

Black oil sunflower seed provides the most energy per pound of any typical birdseed. Black oil sunflower seeds are easiest for most birds to eat, too, because they have thin shells compared to striped sunflower. When problem birds take over a feeder, striped sunflower becomes an excellent alternative.

How long does it take for black oil sunflowers to bloom?

Many annual sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) sprout quickly, within seven to 10 days, but you may need to wait as long as two months before the bright flowers appear.

Can you feed a horse black oil sunflower seeds?

Sunflower seeds are safe for horses, and horses eat them readily. Many feed stores have black oil sunflower seeds on hand, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble sourcing them in bulk. Striped sunflower seeds, which are often consumed by humans, should not be fed to horses.

What oil is best for horses?

Linseed oil is the best option to use as it contains high levels of Omega 3, has good palatability, isn’t too pricey and is suitable for a large range of horses and ponies. Grass is a good source of Omega 3, so horses who receive little or no turnout will certainly benefit from supplementation.

What is the difference between black oil sunflower seeds and striped sunflower seeds?

The black oil seeds (“oilers”) have very thin shells, easy for virtually all seed-eating birds to crack open, and the kernels within have a high fat content, extremely valuable for most winter birds. Striped sunflower seeds have a thicker shell, much harder for House Sparrows and blackbirds to crack open.

Can birds eat sunflower seeds meant for humans?

Sunflower seeds are very versatile. They can be eaten or fed to the birds. Keep an eye on your sunflowers this fall, whether you want to harvest them for people food or bird food. Sunflowers are mature when the back of the heads turn brown and dry.