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Black Oil Sunflower Seeds are the BOSS

  • Writer: Dave & Laura Loohuizen
    Dave & Laura Loohuizen
  • Dec 13, 2025
  • 3 min read

Alright folks, pull up a rocking chair and pour yerself a cup of something warm — let’s jaw a bit about one small seed that punches way above its weight: black oil sunflower seeds (acronym BOSS). Around Kenora Bed ’n’ Bale, these little beauties are a barn-yard staple, a bird feeder favorite, and a quiet helper to critters big and small.

What Makes Black Oil Sunflower Seeds So Special?

Black oil sunflower seeds aren’t just regular sunflower seeds in fancy boots. They’ve got:

  • Higher oil content (that’s good energy)

  • Thin shells (easy eatin’)

  • High protein and healthy fats

In other words, they’re like a hearty farm breakfast — filling, nourishing, and keeps ya goin’ longer than toast alone.

For the Birds: Feeder Gold ⭐

If you’re hopin’ to turn your yard into a feathered social club, black oil sunflower seeds are the way to do it.

  • Loved by chickadees, cardinals, finches, nuthatches, woodpeckers — you name it

  • High fat helps birds stay warm in winter and strong during nesting season

  • Less mess than striped seeds (more eating, less shell flingin’)

Set out a feeder and you’ll have birds lining up like it’s Saturday morning at the bakery.

For Wildlife: A Little Boost from Nature 🌲

Squirrels, chipmunks, deer and other wild neighbours benefit from sunflower seeds too — especially during colder months or times when natural forage is slim.

  • Extra calories (some say 5x more than oats!) when energy matters most

  • Natural, familiar feed source

  • Great supplement (not a replacement) for wild diets

We always say: feed wildlife responsibly and in moderation — think of it as a helping hand, not room service.

For Livestock: A Handy Supplement 🐓🐐🐑

Black oil sunflower seeds can be a fine add-on to livestock diets when fed properly.

  • Chickens: Shinier feathers, healthy skin, and a protein boost (especially during molt)

  • Goats & sheep: Extra fat and energy during cold snaps or heavy work

  • Horses (in moderation): Coat shine and added calories

A little goes a long way — these seeds are rich, so they’re best used as a supplement, not the main course.

Easy to Store, Easy to Use

Another reason we like ’em? They’re simple.

  • Long shelf life when kept dry

  • Easy to scoop, pour, or mix

  • No complicated prep — just good, honest feed

Where to Buy Black Oil Sunflower Seeds Near Kenora

Right here at Kenora Bed ’n’ Bale, of course 😉

We carry quality black oil sunflower seeds suitable for:

  • Bird feeders

  • Hobby farms

  • Backyard livestock

  • Rural properties and cabins

Swing by our online shop if you like your feed ordered as easy as pie. www.KenoraBedAndBale.com then hit the Order Products button, and we’ll get you fixed up proper. And the icing on the cake: our online prices nearly always beat the big box stores!

Final Thoughts from the Feed Room

Black oil sunflower seeds may be small, but they sure do earn their keep. From brightening up your bird feeder to giving livestock a healthy boost, they’re one of those simple farm staples that just make sense.

So next time you’re restockin’ feed, think about tossin’ a bag of black oil sunflower seeds into the mix — your birds, beasts, and barnyard neighbou

rs will thank ya.

And as always, if you’ve got questions, need advice, or just want to talk feed, Kenora Bed ’n’ Bale is always happy to help. 🤠🌻

 
 
 

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