Why are hulled sunflower seeds (sunflower hearts) often preferred over whole sunflower seeds?
Answer
They result in significantly less shell litter accumulating below the feeder.
When American Goldfinches consume whole sunflower seeds, they tend to discard the heavy, outer shell directly onto the ground beneath the feeder. This accumulation of discarded shells creates considerable mess on the ground. Sunflower hearts, being hulled or shelled sunflower seeds, eliminate this issue entirely because the inedible shell component has already been removed prior to filling the feeder. Reducing this shell litter is a major advantage, as excessive buildup can foster the growth of unhealthy fungi or mold that birds might forage in below the feeding station.
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