Draft 2: Sunflower, Safflower or Thistle? Which Will Birds Prefer?

This topic submitted by Emily Orians, Anita Yelton, Nicole Hubacher, Michael Purcell, and Larissa Loufman ( oriansec@muohio.edu ) on 10/26/05. [Section: Winnubst]

Natural Systems 1 Syllabus---Western Program---Miami University

Sunflower, Safflower or Thistle? Which Will Birds Prefer?
By: Emily Orians, Anita Yelton, Nicole Hubacher, Michael Purcell, and Larissa Loufman
Abstract:
There is a seemingly endless amount of possibilities as to the types of bird food available for purchase, and to be able to identify what is the most preferred food would be greatly useful to the average bird watcher. This experiment will take three different types of bird feed and put them into separate, handmade birdfeeders, as well as a mixture of the three seeds into another container. Twelve birdfeeders in total will be divided and hung around campus, in three separate but important areas: a busy human common place, an open field and a wooded area. We believe that between sunflower seed, safflower seed, and thistle seed, sunflower seed will show to be the most preferred by birds because they contain many nutrients that birds need not only on an everyday basis, but especially during months of cold weather.

Introduction:
If three different types of bird feed, and a mixture of those three, are provided in various locations, will one particular type stand out as being more preferred than the others? We believe that the results of the experiment will show sunflower seed to be the preferred food, reinforced by the greater amount consumed directly from the feeder which contains it, and also by an absence of sunflower seed in the feeder consisting of the three types mixed. There is a seemingly endless amount of possibilities as to the types of bird food available for purchase, and to be able to identify what is the most preferred food would be greatly useful to the average bird watcher. Also, we plan to observe the birds that eat at our feeders on several different locations to get an idea of what kinds of birds we are attracting. Thistle, one of the seeds we are using, is said to be the best for attracting goldfinches, is usually placed in feeders that few birds other than goldfinches are able to eat from because it is an expensive and well liked seed. In addition to gold finches, house sparrows, and pine siskins are attracted to thistle. Sunflower seed is considered a favorite among birds; the birds it attracts include but are not limited to red-bellied wood peckers, Carolina chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, and cardinals. Safflower is a seed that is described as having a unique taste; it is often mixed with sunflower seeds for a period of time to wean the birds onto it before it is put in its own feeder. Safflower is a good seed because squirrels are not attracted to it. Cardinals, multiple varieties of sparrow and chickadee, are a few of the types of birds that frequent safflower feeders. Through providing a mixture of the three seeds, it will be interesting to see if the birds take to the safflower seed right away, or if they will start eating more of it after they have eaten from the mixed feeder for a few weeks. (Russell, 2005) By observing the birds at the three different types of feed, we may be able to discredit some of the advertiserÕs claims and therefore would uncover a way to save money and attract goldfinches.

Background Information:
The study of birds, ornithology, has been explored by many people. Many pieces of literature and field work have been completed to identify the different species of birds and their behaviors. A subject that many researchers seem to find particularly interesting is the eating habits of birds. For instance, S. Buff states that the simplest way to attract birds to a home birdfeeder is to use supplemental foods. She stresses the fact that, while there is a common myth to the contrary, birds will not become dependant upon the food supply the average person supplies (Buff, 1992). If one hopes to attract birds, it is necessary to keep putting food out after the winter and into the spring. Birds are more likely to build their nest in a place where they have easy access to water, shelter, and a supplemental food source (http://www.wildnj.com/bk1.htm). However, birds are extremely picky eaters. Birds fall into four basic categories as far as diets are concerned, seeds, berries (including nectar), insects, and meat (S.B., 1998). In the dull of Ohio winter, birds such as black-capped chickadees, tufted titmice, northern cardinals, and blue jays all regularly visit feeders containing sunflower seeds. The seeds appeal to a wide range of species, including quails, doves, chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, crossbills, grosbeaks, cardinals, juncos, and sparrows. Seeds are calcium-rich and contain 11 additional minerals. (Toops, C., 2001).
Birds whose diets consist mainly of seeds are often attracted to the high oil content of sunflower seeds, because its high oil content helps keep the birds warm in the winter. Common birds that are attracted to sunflower seed are cardinals, jays and chickadees. A bird must have a strong beak to be able to crack the sunflower seeds open without expending too much energy, although small birds do sometimes search out dropped bits of seed underneath the birdfeeders. Usually, birds with smaller beaks are more attracted to thistle seed because they are easier for smaller birds with smaller beaks to consume (S.B., 1998).
The depletion of seed resources has shown to be a dramatic factor in bird population decreases. The more dramatic example of this is in the Galapagos Islands where, after a severe drought, most seed crops failed and those that did not were quickly finished off. This contingent even produced a great rise in mortality rates, and a decrease in population (Robinson, R.A., 1999).Some believe that the digestive track of birds has evolved over time to increase survival rates, particularly in terms of the ability to store fat reserves for not only warmth in the winter, but the journey that most birds make to their winter homes. A survey of birds was performed that produced the conclusion that the more carbohydrates the bird consumed, the more sure its intestines were able to absorb. Many birds appear to be able to digest their food rather effectively, meaning that they absorb much more of the energy consumed than was once acknowledged. Many birds do this by growing more intestine, possibly 22% more. This allows them to take in more food in one mean, yet keep it in the digestive chamber for a longer period of time, eating less per day with a smaller gut. Absorption of food and chemical breakdown are enhanced by the larger intestine. Such traits appear to be evolutionary, and in any rate, increase the birdsÕ migratory abilities (Karasov, W., 1993).
Many types of bird feeders exist, the type one plants, the man-made type, and the hand-made type. Different feeders attract different birds, require different seeds, and may even require specific locations to be hung from or set up. Fruit bearing trees or shrubs are always a possibility as far as birdfeeders go. Not only do they provide food and shelter for the birds, but they can also compliment oneÕs home landscaping. Vegetation such as flowering vines and hedges, dense evergreens, and plants that produce bright berries are good for attracting birds to oneÕs backyard (Krautwurst, T., 2005). A purchased bird feeder, a feeder that was manufactured by a company, can range anywhere in price from $5 -$550 according to Ò100 FeedersÓ. The cheapest feeder on the list is a nylon sack used for thistle seed versus the most expensive feeder which is made of composite resins; the expensive bird feeder is described as having Òfluted pilasters with capitals, carved shell, and cast verdigris roof with widow walkÉÓ (BirderÕs World, 2003). There are times when the types of planters (made and planted) are combined, such as when an apple tree is used to hang a planter. The apple tree is an attractive perch to birds, especially when it is in bloom, and the seed is either an added benefit or a pleasant surprise (Toops, C. 2001). One can also make a bird feeder out of something as simple as an empty half gallon milk carton. By simply cutting a few holes and threading some twine, one can create an entirely inexpensive, yet effective, bird feeder, (Mother Earth News, 2000). Learning the habitat needs of species is imperative to attracting them and enticing them to stay on oneÕs property, the proper habitats must be created. Although such a task may seem challenging, it is also very rewarding for the avid bird-watcher. It involves the bird-watcher in the birdsÕ lives, needs and behaviors (Stokes D. & Stokes, L., 2005).
A common problem with bird feeders is what has been dubbed Òbully birdsÓ. Bully birds essentially dominate bird feeders, hogging the food for themselves and not sharing. It is becoming easier and easier, however, to ward off the nuisances. For example, new bird feeders are beginning to be built more and more to effectively protect against these bully birds. Yet one must keep in mind the fact that the other birds might drop seed onto the ground, which would still attract the birds and defeat the purpose. To prevent bully birds from eating spilled seed, it is suggested that one place a trash can underneath the feeder, as few birds will be brave enough to fly into it to retrieve the fallen seed. Placing a small mirror on the section of feeder the book looks into when eating will often scare European Starlings away as well (Harrison, G., 2005). Another method that often works in discouraging the Òfeeder hogsÓ is to remove the food that they prefer from your prepared menu. Such birds are mainly interested in cracked corn, mixed seed, suet, peanuts, and bread. Squirrels are often common problems with bird feeders. While one may simply purchase a Òsquirrel-proofÓ feeder, another alternative is to place feeders away from trees on far from trees and railings, so that the squirrel cannot jump up (or down) onto it. Another way to keep squirrels out of the bird feeder is to place an ear of dry corn on a tree far away from the bird feeders. Cats may also interfere with a bird feeder, but by mounting the feeder more than four feet into the air, this can easily be avoided (http://www.birdwatchersdigest.com/site/backyard_birds/bird_feeding/solutions.aspx).
While many common birds make Hamilton County their home, a study performed in 2003 recognized high rates of male population in three separate species out of the twenty that were observed for the observation: the wood thrush, the red-eyed vireo, and the arcadian flycatcher. Other common area birds include: the downy woodpecker, tufted titmouse, American goldfinch, and the red-winged blackbird (http://jrscience.wcp.muohio.edu/birds/ohio_birds/TOC-5.html). As well as the ovenbird, grey catbird, cowbirds, chipping sparrows, and yellow warblers (http://www.aves.net/archives/OHIOtoApril24-02.htm#1019732039).

A Specific Research Design:
In our experiment, we will be measuring the amount of bird seed consumed out of each feeder by weighing the amount of food that is eaten. To do so, we will be collecting the bird seed left over every two days, and measuring the amount of food that is missing from the original amount put into the feeder. It is also to be noted that the feeders will be refilled after every such collection, to keep the time between collections consistent. The reason for measuring the difference in the weights of the food recovered and the food set out is because there is no other reliable way to measure the food eaten. To do the measuring, we will be using a digital scale to record the weight. For added accuracy, we will be taking all measurements in metric.
The measurements from the different places that the feeders were hung will be recorded separately. The data sheets we will be using allow us to record how much food was eaten and at what locations the weights were taken from. These recordings will allow us to answer the main research question of what kind of seed will be eaten the most by providing actual data from the field concerning what type of seed was consumed. Secondarily, the secondary concern of which location for the feeders will be most heavily eaten out of can be looked at through the same data sheet, making this method of research effective and efficient. At this time we are considering analyzing our date by using a t-test and a species diversity test.

Materials and Methods:
In order to effectively conduct the bird lab we will utilize many materials. These materials include twelve half gallon milk jugs, 50 lb weight fishing line, sunflower seed, safflower seed, thistle seed, gallon sized zip lock bags, a scale, dowel rods, a camera, bird books and data sheets. The milk jugs will be used to construct bird feeders. The fishing line serves as a way to hang the feeders from the tree; it is thin and slippery enough to keep squirrels and other animals from crawling down it to the feeder while being tough enough to hold the weight of the feeder. The three different types of seed are the independent variables of the experiment and will be placed in each of the feeders separately as well as mixed together. We will use the zip lock bags to transport the seed from the bird feeder to the scale where it will be measured by the scale. The dowel rods will be built into the feeder and will serve as a perch for the birds to rest on while they eat. While observing the birds we will use the camera to photograph them, the bird books to identify them and the data sheets to record the weight of the seeds taken from each feeder.
To conduct the bird lab we will first build the bird feeders out of the half gallon jugs by cutting two holes in the sides of them and insert the dowel rod beneath the hole for the birds to perch on and then insert the twine through the top for hanging them up. We will then place four bird feeders at Shriver, Peabody woods, and the small patch of trees that is beside Presser Hall. These feeders will contain the three different seeds separately and one feeder will be mixed. Each feeder will have the same amount in grams of seed when hung up. We will then take shifts visiting the feeders every two days at 4:00 in the afternoon to collect the seeds from the feeders. They will be placed in gallon bags and transported to the science center and weighed. The weight of the seeds will be subtracted from the initial weight to determine the amount consumed from each feeder containing the different feeders. The initial amount will then be replaced in the feeders and the measurements will be conducted again. The results of each measurement will be recorded on the data sheets. We will also record the weather conditions. If the seed is wet due to rain we will allow it to dry for several days before we weigh it, as the wetness would throw off our measurements. We will also go out periodically to the different locations around sunrise to observe the different types of bids at the feeders in half an hour increments. The kinds of birds visiting the different feeders will be tallied on a separate data sheet and photographs of the birds will be taken for documentation. On the day our class is assigned to help us we will teach a little about how to identify birds and distribute bird books to them. They will then sit and tally the different kinds of birds visiting the feeders.

Shriver
Sunflower Weight (g) Safflower Weight (g) Thistle Weight (g) Mixed Weight (g)
Initial
17-Nov
19-Oct
21-Oct
23-Oct
25-Oct
27-Oct
29-Oct
31-Oct
2-Nov
4-Nov
6-Nov
8-Nov
10-Nov
12-Nov
14-Nov
16-Nov
18-Nov
20-Nov
22-Nov
24-Nov
26-Nov
28-Nov

Trees beside Presser Hall
Sunflower Weight (g) Safflower Weight (g) Thistle Weight (g) Mixed Weight (g)
Initial
17-Nov
19-Oct
21-Oct
23-Oct
25-Oct
27-Oct
29-Oct
31-Oct
2-Nov
4-Nov
6-Nov
8-Nov
10-Nov
12-Nov
14-Nov
16-Nov
18-Nov
20-Nov
22-Nov
24-Nov
26-Nov
28-Nov

Peabody Woods
Sunflower Weight (g) Safflower Weight (g) Thistle Weight (g) Mixed Weight (g)
Initial
17-Nov
19-Oct
21-Oct
23-Oct
25-Oct
27-Oct
29-Oct
31-Oct
2-Nov
4-Nov
6-Nov
8-Nov
10-Nov
12-Nov
14-Nov
16-Nov
18-Nov
20-Nov
22-Nov
24-Nov
26-Nov
28-Nov

Works Cited
Ò100 Feeders.Ó BirderÕs World 17.4 (2003): 11.
Buff, S. ÒHow to Eat Like a Bird.Ó Mother Earth News (1992): 66.
ÒCountry Lore.Ó Mother Earth News 179 (2000): 10.
Cummins, Hays R.. "A Collection of Bird Photos and Movies from SW Ohio." 27 Sept. 2005. 05 Oct. 2005 .
D'Orio, Lynda Hester . "Wild New Jersey: Columns and Essays." Myths and Facts on Feeding Birds in Your Backyard. 05 Oct. 2005 .
Harrison, G. ÒTen Ways to Keep Bullies at Bay.Ó National Wildlife 43.5 (2005): 18-19.
Karasov, W.H. ÒIn the Belly of the Bird.Ó Natural History 102.11 (1993): 32.
Krautwurst, T. ÒBird Feeders with Roots.Ó Mother Earth News 211 (2005): 34-36.
"Ohio Birder Resources ." Ohio-birds Email Archives. 05 Oct. 2005 .
Russell, Dr. David. "What Birds Should I Look For?."
Robinson, R.A., Sutherland, W.J. ÒThe Winter Distribution of Seed-Eating Birds: Habitat Structure, Seed Density and Seasonal Depletion.Ó Ecogography 22.4 (1999): 447.
Saunders, L.P., Charles, W., Styer, D., Pelikan, S. ÒBird Population Changes in a Hamilton County, Ohio, Forest.Ó Ohio Journal of Science 105.3 (2005): 43-45.
S.B. ÒSo, WhoÕs Coming to Dinner? It Depends on What YouÕre Serving.Ó Christian Science Monitor 90.49 (1998): 11.
"Shaw Creek Bird Supply." Bird Seed Preferences of Common Feeder Birds. 2004. 01 Oct. 2005 .
Stokes, C., Stokes, L. ÒHabitat Habits.Ó BirderÕs World 19.5 (2005): 50-51.

Thompson III, Bill. "Bird Watcher's Digest." Solutions to Common Bird-Feeding Problems. 2005. 04 Oct. 2005 .
Toops, C. ÒBackyard Makeover.Ó BirderÕs World 15.3 (2001): 53.
Toops, C. ÒBird Seeder.Ó BirderÕs World 17.4 (2003): 86.

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