Attracting Birds

• Black oil sunflower seeds are the most attractive sunflower seeds for drawing in seed-eating birds, notes the Virginia Cooperative Extension. Sparrows and finches feed on the seeds, along with larger birds. The University of Missouri Extension says that the seeds have a high oil content that makes them a good energy supply for birds.
  
  

Cost

• In use as birdseed, black oil sunflower seeds offer a lower cost per pound, according to the University of Missouri Extension. The Virginia Cooperative Extension suggests buying black oil sunflower seeds and white prove millet separately, rather than a mixture of seeds, to attract a range of bird types.
  
  

Premium Oil

• Black oil sunflower seeds provide a source of premium cooking oil. The oil contains unsaturated fatty acids, has a bland flavor and features a high smoke point. The oil provides antioxidant vitamin E in the form of alpha-tocopherol.