Sunflowers and birds

In my part of the state, farmers plant large fields of sunflowers to attract mourning doves during the legal hunting season. The list of other birds that relish these seeds is lengthy. A short list includes ring-necked pheasants, quail, bobolinks, goldfinches, meadowlarks, nuthatches, and tufted titmice. Mammals too enjoy the seeds, including many types of mice, ground squirrels, chipmunks, and humans. As for deer, sadly for gardeners, they absolutely love all parts of the plants. The black seeded sunflower has a large kernel, and the outer hull is relatively soft for birds to crack. The U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service rates them as the very best food for birds.