Bird Seed & Food We Use This

Wagner's Safflower Seed (10 lb)

4/5 — Our Rating

Our Review

Safflower is a white seed that Northern Cardinals absolutely love, but squirrels, grackles, and starlings tend to avoid. It's a great option if you want to discourage 'pest' birds and rodents while still attracting the birds you actually want to see.

Why We Love It

We mix safflower into our main feeders when squirrel pressure gets heavy. Cardinals will eat safflower all day long, and the squirrels mostly leave it alone. It's a great strategic seed.

Pros

  • Cardinals love it
  • Squirrels generally avoid it
  • Grackles and starlings dislike it
  • Clean seed
  • No shells to clean up

Cons

  • Limited appeal — fewer species eat it
  • More expensive than sunflower
  • Takes time for birds to discover it

Birds This Attracts

Northern CardinalBlack-capped ChickadeeTufted TitmouseHouse Finch

Our Tip

Mix safflower 50/50 with sunflower seeds to gradually introduce it. After a week, birds will eat it straight.

Best For

Cardinals Chickadees Titmice

Wagner's Safflower Seed (10 lb)

$18.99

Used at Our Station
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Price$18.99
CategoryBird Seed & Food
Our Rating4/5
We Use ItYes
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