Blackoil Sunflower and Safflower Seed

[ker0412]

Ive been noticing a ton of blackoil sunflower seed in stores lately, obviously meant for wild birds. Is both the store-bought blackoil seed and safflower safe for chickens? I was thinking of mixing it or use as a supplement to the chick feed. If so, how many weeks old is safe?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Chicken love black oil sunflower seeds, and safflower. Then can be given as a treat, but their use should be limited as they are fattening, which isn't healthy for them. Mine get a bit daily in their scratch, and eat it first. The earliest I would offer it is over 4 months, but again I can't stress it enough in limited amounts to avoid problems.

 

[Egghead_Jr]

We only use Sunflower in the coldest months. 30% fat content is nothing you really want the birds eating much of but when sub freezing temps they use that quick energy not store it as fat. You never want fat chickens. Plump due to meat sure but not fat.