Which Birds Eat Safflower Seeds? (And Which Don't)

Safflower seeds are popular for bird feeders, but which birds will eat safflower seeds? In this article, we’re going to break down which birds love them, and which ones avoid them.

In addition to the variety of birds that find safflower seeds appetizing, using this type of bird food can also help manage pests and unwanted bird species. Since certain birds and pesky critters like squirrels tend to avoid safflower seeds, providing them in your bird feeders can be a strategic choice.

Not to mention, safflower seeds can be combined with other seed types or offered alone in appropriately designed bird feeders to maximize the attraction of specific avian species.

Key Takeaways:

Safflower seeds lure a range of birds, including chickadees, northern cardinals, and mourning doves, thanks to their high nutritional value.
Using safflower seeds can help deter unwanted bird species and pests like squirrels, ensuring a more peaceful birdwatching experience.
Introducing safflower seeds in various bird feeders can complement other seed types to attract a diverse array of avian species in your backyard.

Birds That Eat Safflower Seeds

Safflower seeds are a popular choice for many bird enthusiasts for good reason—they’re easily available and can attract a variety of bird species. Another great reason to use safflower seeds is that many bird species people are trying to keep out of their yards don’t like them. So they’re multi-purpose and can actually help maintain a balanced bird population in your backyard.

Let’s explore some of the birds that have a preference for safflower seeds.

Cardinals

cardinal bird in a tree — Northern Red Cardinal

If you love cardinals, rejoice—these birds love safflower seeds! Cardinals have the right type of thick, hardy beak that can pry them open in their shells and consume them. In fact, they are often spotted in the vicinity of feeders offering them.

Tufted Titmouse

These small and delightful birds will also gladly add safflower seeds to their diet. You can mix safflower seeds with sunflower chips and nyjer for them. They also enjoy suet.

Chickadees

black capped chickadee on the tip of a pine tree branch — Black-Capped Chickadee

Chickadees, such as the black-capped chickadee, are abundant in North America, and safflower seeds are one of their favorite food sources. These seeds are rich in fat and protein, providing the necessary nutrients for these small birds to thrive.

Indigo Buntings

Indigo buntings will feed on safflower seeds, too. These bright blue birds with a sweet song are highly appealing and can bring a touch of color and music to any backyard. While safflower seeds might not be their primary food source, offering them in your feeder can still help draw in these beautiful birds.

Native Sparrows

song sparrow nibbling seeds — Song Sparrow

Native sparrow species are attracted to safflower seeds and can be regular visitors when these seeds are available. Keep in mind, house sparrows will also come if you’re offering safflower seeds, and some folks don’t want to attract these birds for their food-hogging tendencies.

Grosbeaks

rose breasted grosbeak looking up — Rose-Breasted Grosbeak

Grosbeaks like the rose-breasted grosbeak and evening grosbeak are known to sample safflower seeds in their diet. They are often spotted at feeders containing this seed type, making them an excellent addition to attract these colorful birds.

Finches

purple finch on a birch log — Purple Finch

Another bird with a powerful beak capable of cracking into the hard safflower shell, a finch appreciates some safflower seeds mixed into the offerings. You can get purple finches, house finches and other finch species alighting on your feeders with safflower. They’re actually more likely to visit your feeders if you provide them.

Pine Siskins

pine siskin eating black oil sunflower seeds — Pine Siskin

These small, streaked birds with a distinctive yellow flash on their wings can also be attracted to safflower seeds. These birds have an affinity for thistle seeds, but they will also sample safflower seeds when they find them in backyard bird feeders. Just be sure to offer hulled safflower seeds to these birds.

Doves

mourning dove perched on a branch — Mourning Dove

Doves like the mourning dove find safflower seeds appealing. They might visit your yard more often if you provide them with these nutritious seeds.

Nuthatches

white breasted nuthatch on a snowy shrub — White-Breasted Nuthatch

Want to attract white-breasted nuthatches and red-breasted nuthatches to your feeders? Nuthatches are also fans of safflower seeds. They will regularly visit a safflower seed feeder.

Woodpeckers

close up of a red bellied woodpecker — Red-Bellied Woodpecker

Like woodpeckers? Species like the downy woodpecker and red-bellied woodpecker might taste safflower seeds.

Bluebirds

Bluebirds eat mostly insects and fruits, at feeders, mealworms especially. While bluebirds aren’t going to eat seeds that often, when they do, they won’t mind safflower seed. You certainly won’t deter them.

Read Next: What Birds Eat Sunflower Seeds?

Species Not Attracted to Safflower Seed

While many birds enjoy safflower seeds, there are a few species that do not find them particularly appealing. With their thick shells and bitter taste, safflower seeds deter some birds from consuming them, making them a great choice to attract only specific bird species.

Surprisingly, Blue Jays, known for their diverse diet, are among the birds that do not frequently consume safflower seeds. They prefer foods such as sunflower seeds, nuts, and occasionally insects. However, since Blue Jays are opportunistic eaters, it isn’t impossible to find them trying out some safflower seeds in their search for food.
Starlings and Cowbirds also tend to avoid safflower seeds. These blackbirds are more inclined to eat grains, fruits, and insects. By providing safflower seeds in your bird feeder, you can actually discourage these particular birds from visiting your yard.
Crows are another bird species that may not find safflower seeds attractive. Although they are known to be adaptable and resourceful, crows prefer a diet of insects, small animals, and grains instead.
Pigeons and Robins also show little interest in consuming safflower seeds. Pigeons typically seek out smaller grains and seeds, while Robins primarily feast on insects and fruits.
Squirrels are said to avoid safflower seeds. For some, this works like a charm. Although there are the unfortunate folks who still have to do battle with squirrels no matter what they put out for the birds. Still, it’s worth a shot.

Note: These preferences may vary among individual birds, and some exceptions may occur. Nonetheless, offering safflower seeds in your bird feeder can help you attract the desired species while limiting less welcome visitors.

Remember, when using safflower seeds, it is crucial to maintain a clean and hygienic feeder to ensure the birds’ health and well-being. By doing so, you will create a pleasant environment that will attract a variety of songbirds to your yard.

Safflower Seed Advantages

Safflower seeds serve as a nutritious and attractive option for bird food in your garden. These seeds are popular among numerous bird species due to their high content of fat and protein, making them an excellent energy source for your feathered friends.
One of the most significant advantages of using safflower seeds in your bird feeders is that they may offer a squirrel-proof solution. Squirrels are often deterred by the seeds’ slightly bitter taste, meaning that your bird feeders will become less inviting to these pesky rodents. This allows the birds in your garden to access and enjoy the safflower seeds without any competition or interruption.
There are various bird species that are known to eat safflower seeds, making them a versatile choice for bird enthusiasts. Birds that consume these seeds include Black-capped Chickadees, quails, juncos, cardinals, sparrows, and bluebirds. Introducing safflower seeds to your bird feeders can attract a diverse range of beautiful birds to your garden, creating a more lively and dynamic environment.

To further entice these birds, it’s wise to use different feeder styles and setups. Combining hanging feeders, platform feeders, and tube feeders with safflower seeds will invite various species to visit your garden and enjoy the nutritious snacks you’ve provided.

Dealing with Pests and Unwanted Birds

When it comes to bird feeding with safflower seeds, it’s essential to ensure that the food reaches the desired birds and not pests or unwanted birds, such as squirrels, chipmunks, bully birds, blackbirds, and grackles. To achieve this, consider adopting a few strategies to deter these nuisances from your bird feeders.

Choose the Right Feeder

Firstly, choose the right feeder types that prevent access to unwanted visitors. Tube feeders equipped with weight-based mechanisms can be an effective choice. These feeders allow only lighter songbirds, like the Northern cardinals and house finches, to access the seeds, shutting off the access for heavier blackbirds or squirrels.

Consider, too, that woodpeckers like the downy woodpecker, will also be attracted to safflower seeds. To make your feeder more selective, try using a bird feeder with smaller perch sizes or use specialty woodpecker feeders that cater explicitly to their feeding habits.

Use Barriers

Another technique is to safeguard your bird feeders against pests through physical barriers. Squirrel baffles or guards can work wonders in keeping squirrels and chipmunks at bay while allowing birds to enjoy the safflower seeds. Having baffles above and below the feeder will further enhance its protection.

Eliminate Certain Bird Foods

Moreover, eliminate foods that attract bully birds such as blackbirds, grackles, and starlings. Switching to safflower seeds from other popular bird foods is a solid move since these unwanted birds typically don’t like safflower seeds. Additionally, avoiding platform or open feeders will make it more difficult for these larger birds to land and eat.

Overall, a combination of these strategies will go a long way in helping you deal with pests and unwanted birds, while providing a safe and enjoyable environment for the birds you want to see at your feeders.

Different Types of Bird Feeders for Safflower Seeds

Safflower seeds are a popular food choice for various bird species. To attract these beautiful birds to your yard, it’s essential to choose the right bird feeder. There are several types of bird feeders available on the market, specifically designed for safflower seeds. Let’s take a look at some of the different options.

Tube Feeders

Tube feeders are a popular choice for feeding birds safflower seeds. They allow birds to cling onto the feeder, while the seeds are consumed through small feeding ports. These feeders can accommodate a dozen or more birds at a time, but it’s best to use smaller models when there are only a few birds. This ensures that the seed is used up fairly frequently, keeping it fresh for your feathered friends ¹.

Platform Feeders

Platform feeders are great for ground-feeding birds that enjoy safflower seeds, such as mourning doves. These feeders have a flat surface that makes it easy for the birds to access the seeds. They can also accommodate multiple birds at a time, which is especially helpful during the colder months when birds are more likely to congregate together for warmth and food ².

However, they do also attract larger birds that might bully smaller songbirds you’re trying to attract. Weigh the pros and cons and what types of birds you have in your area.

Hopper Feeders

Hopper feeders, also known as tray feeders, are another excellent choice for safflower seeds. These feeders have a larger capacity, allowing you to place a generous amount of seeds for several bird species to enjoy. Hopper feeders are particularly attractive to northern cardinals, as they can comfortably perch and eat from these feeders ³.

When selecting a bird feeder for safflower seeds, consider the types of birds you want to attract and the space you have available in your yard. Tube feeders are perfect for smaller spaces and encourage clinging birds, while platform and hopper feeders attract a wider range of ground-feeding and perching birds. By choosing the right bird feeder, you can enjoy the sight of numerous beautiful birds feasting on safflower seeds in your backyard.

Comparing Safflower Seeds with Sunflower Seeds

When it comes to feeding birds in your backyard, safflower seeds and sunflower seeds are popular choices for attracting various bird species. Both types of seeds provide nutritional benefits for birds, but there are some differences between the two that may influence your decision on which seed to include in your bird feeders.

Safflower seeds are slightly smaller than sunflower seeds and have a distinct white appearance. They are high in protein, fat, and fiber, making them an excellent food source for many types of birds. Some birds that enjoy safflower seeds include cardinals, finches, and grosbeaks. These seeds have a bitter taste, which helps to deter unwanted bird species such as starlings and blackbirds from consuming them.

On the other hand, sunflower seeds are an attractive food option for a wider range of birds, thanks to their larger size and diverse variations. Black oil sunflower seeds, for example, are known for their high-fat content and thinner shells, which make them easier for smaller birds to crack open. Birds that prefer sunflower seeds include chickadees, titmice, and nuthatches.

Protein and fat are essential nutrients for birds’ metabolism, growth, and overall health. Comparatively, sunflower seeds tend to have a higher protein and fat content than safflower seeds, although both are valuable sources of nutrition for various bird species. Choosing between safflower and sunflower seeds depends on the specific birds you want to attract to your backyard and your personal preferences.

Buying and Storing Safflower Seed

For backyard birders looking to buy safflower seeds, there are several options to consider, including purchasing in bulk or smaller quantities.

Bulk buying: Purchasing safflower seeds in bulk can be a cost-effective option for bird lovers who want to attract numerous birds to their yard. You can find bulk safflower seeds at wild bird stores, pet stores, and even some local gardening centers. Buying in bulk can save you money in the long run and ensure you always have enough seeds on hand to keep your feathered friends satisfied.
Safflower seed types: When selecting your safflower seeds, it’s essential to be aware of the different seed types available. Some birds prefer whole safflower seeds, while others are more attracted to golden safflower seeds. Ensure you choose the right seed type for the particular bird species you want to attract to your backyard.
Storing in a cool, dry place: Once you’ve purchased your safflower seeds, proper storage is crucial to maintain their quality and freshness. To extend their shelf life and prevent spoilage, it’s best to keep the seeds in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Additionally, you can store the seeds in airtight containers or resealable bags to retain their natural oils and nutrients, ensuring they remain an appealing food source for birds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do sparrows consume safflower seeds?

Sparrows will eat safflower seeds, yes. However, they seem to prefer other types of seeds rather than safflower seeds, such as canary seeds. This seed is especially popular among House Sparrows and cowbirds, which some people might not want to attract to their yards source.

Are safflower seeds suitable for parrots?

While safflower seeds are not harmful to parrots, they might not be the top choice of seed for these birds. Parrots typically enjoy a varied diet, including seeds, fruits, and vegetables. It’s essential to provide them with a balanced diet appropriate for their species.

Do mourning doves enjoy safflower seeds?

Yes, mourning doves are among the bird species that regularly feed on safflower seeds source. However, they also enjoy other types of seeds like millet and sunflower seeds.

Can woodpeckers eat safflower seeds?

Woodpeckers, such as downy and red-bellied woodpeckers, can eat safflower seeds and are known to be attracted to them source. However, woodpeckers are mostly insect eaters and will also benefit from offerings such as suet cakes.

Do blue jays and cardinals like safflower seeds?

Blue jays and cardinals are among the bird species that enjoy eating safflower seeds source. They are attracted to these seeds’ high protein and fat content and can be brought to your yard by offering safflower seeds in your bird feeder.

Should I offer safflower or sunflower seeds to birds?

Both safflower and sunflower seeds are good options to offer birds, as they provide essential nutrients required by various bird species. Safflower seeds are slightly smaller than sunflower seeds and come with a hard, white shell and a slightly bitter flavor source. Sunflower seeds are more versatile, with black-oil sunflower seeds being the most popular choice. Your decision will depend on which bird species you want to attract, as different birds have different seed preferences.

Which Birds Eat Safflower Seeds? (And Which Don’t)