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Black sunflower seeds... what are they good for?

Discussion in 'Feeding & Watering Your Flock' started by FingerLakesChick, Sep 28, 2007.

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  1. Sep 28, 2007 Post #1 of 15
    FingerLakesChick

    FingerLakesChick Songster

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    I've read that black sunflower seeds are good for something in chickens. But for the life of me, I can't remember what. And I can't find the info again in this forum. Can anyone enlighten me? I'd be grateful. Thanks!!
     
  2. Sep 28, 2007 Post #2 of 15
    wegotchickens

    wegotchickens DownSouth D'Uccles & Silkies

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    I know that wild birds love them because they are rich in oils.
     
  3. Sep 28, 2007 Post #3 of 15
    Tuffoldhen

    Tuffoldhen Flock Mistress

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    Black oiled Sunflower seeds in the shell just like people use in their feeders for wild birds...I buy mine in 50# bags...Its good for the hens during egg laying...like a lubricant for their egg flow....
     
  4. Sep 28, 2007 Post #4 of 15
    FingerLakesChick

    FingerLakesChick Songster

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    They do love them! Thanks!
     
  5. Sep 28, 2007 Post #5 of 15
    Farmer Kitty

    Farmer Kitty Flock Mistress

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    According to what I have read in this forum, they are a source of protein.[​IMG]
     
  6. Sep 28, 2007 Post #6 of 15
    bigzio

    bigzio Crowing

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    Yep, 30% protein to help with the stress from laying, and also helps to produce feathers faster after a molt.

    bigzio
     
  7. Sep 28, 2007 Post #7 of 15
    Mac

    Mac Songster

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    To clarify, are BO sunflower seeds fed to chickens shelled or unshelled?
     
  8. Sep 28, 2007 Post #8 of 15
    eggzettera

    eggzettera Songster

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    shelled or unshelled is fine - NO salt.....
     
  9. Sep 28, 2007 Post #9 of 15
    valmom

    valmom Songster

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    Black Oil sunflower seeds are a wonderful food. I even feed them to my horses- oil, protein, and fiber all in one little package. I buy it by the 50 pound bag and steal cupfulls for the chickies. They like sunflower seeds better than the cracked corn I got them.[​IMG][​IMG]
     
  10. Sep 30, 2007 Post #10 of 15
    s6bee

    s6bee Songster

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    I just threw out some today at them, and they aren't too sure about it. My girls are a bit spoiled and I think I need to bring them back to reality. I bet they just want them w/o the shells. Too much work I guess?
     
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