Hemp seed has become a popular health food for humans in recent years, known for being a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Some people have started wondering if hemp seed could also be a nutritious food for wild birds. There are a few things to consider when deciding whether or not to offer hemp seed to birds.
Hemp Seed Nutrition
Hemp seed contains a good balance of nutrients that could benefit birds. According to the USDA, a 100-gram serving of hulled hemp seed contains:[1]
- 486 calories
- 25 grams protein
- 48 grams fat
- 20 grams carbohydrates
- 12 grams fiber
The protein content of hemp seed is especially notable. High levels of protein are important in birds’ diets for growth and feather health. The balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids found in hemp seed may also provide birds with healthy skin, feathers, and joints.
Challenges of Feeding Birds Hemp Seed
While the nutritional makeup of hemp seed appears beneficial for birds, there are some potential challenges to consider:
- Size of seeds – Hemp seeds are very small in size. The tiny seeds may be difficult for larger bird species like Cardinals and Blue Jays to handle and crack open. Small finches may have better luck eating the tiny seeds.
- Taste – Hemp seeds have a nutty, earthy flavor profile. Birds like Mourning Doves that enjoy plant-based foods may take to hemp seeds more readily than birds with stronger preferences for fruits, insects, or meat.[2]
- Anti-nutritional factors – Hemp seed contains anti-nutritional compounds like trypsin inhibitors and phytic acid. These may reduce digestibility and nutrient absorption for birds if consumed in large quantities.[3]
- Omega-3 to omega-6 ratio – While hemp seed provides omega fatty acids, the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 is around 1:3. An optimal ratio for birds is closer to 1:1 or 1:2. Too much omega-6 without enough omega-3 could cause an imbalance.[4]
Due to these factors, hemp seed may be best served in moderation as part of a varied diet for birds. Offering a mix of seeds, nuts, fruits, and insects can help ensure birds get the full range of nutrients they need.
Serving Suggestions
If you want to offer hemp seed to wild birds, here are some tips:
- Try sprouted or shelled hemp seeds to increase digestibility and accessibility of nutrients.
- Mix hemp seeds into birdseed blends at no more than 25% of the total volume.
- Scatter seeds on platform feeders, tray feeders, or directly on the ground to give birds options.
- Supplement hemp seeds with other foods like suet, berries, and insects.
- Offer hemp seeds during molting season when protein needs are higher.
Monitor your feeder to see which birds show interest in the hemp seed offering. Be prepared to withdraw or reduce the amount of hemp seed if birds do not seem to like it or if any adverse effects are noticed.
Species that May Enjoy Hemp Seeds
Based on typical diets and beak types, the following birds may be good candidates for sampling hemp seeds:
- Sparrows
- Finches (Goldfinches, House Finches, Purple Finches)
- Doves
- Juncos
- Quail
- Thrushes
- Woodpeckers
- Nuthatches
Larger birds like Robins, Blue Jays, and Cardinals may have difficulty handling the tiny seeds, while birds of prey and insect-eaters are unlikely to show interest. Again, monitor your backyard flock to see who eats the hemp seeds and adjust offerings accordingly.
Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds for Birds
If birds readily eat hemp seeds, the nutritional profile could provide the following benefits:
- Protein – Supports muscle maintenance and feather regrowth during molting. Helps young birds grow.
- Healthy fats – Provides energy. Essential fatty acids support skin and feather health.
- Fiber – Aids digestion.
- Omega fatty acids – Omega-3s support brain, eye, muscle, and heart health. Omega-6s contribute to skin and feather quality.
- Vitamins & minerals – Hemp seeds provide vitamin E, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron and zinc.
The balanced nutritional profile could complement other foods birds forage naturally or eat at backyard feeders. However, more research is needed on the exact effects of hemp seed consumption in wild birds.
Risks of Feeding Birds Hemp Seeds
While hemp seeds show promise for birds nutritionally, there are a few risks to consider as well:
- Anti-nutritional factors – As mentioned previously, hemp seeds contain trypsin inhibitors and phytic acid. These may limit protein absorption and mineral availability if consumed regularly in large amounts. Moderation is key.
- Unsaturated fats – The high percentage of polyunsaturated fats in hemp seed could become rancid and oxidized if left out in feeders for extended periods, especially in hot weather. Monitor seeds for freshness.
- Unbalanced diet – Hemp seed alone cannot meet all of a bird’s nutritional needs. Feeding too much could lead to deficiencies long-term if other important foods are crowded out.
- Allergies – Birds may have individual sensitivities or allergies to hemp seeds that cause adverse reactions.
By providing hemp seeds in moderation as part of a varied diet, risks can be minimized. Discontinue use if any signs of allergy, illness, or nutritional deficiency arise.
Legal Considerations
In the United States, hemp seeds and hemp-derived products that contain less than 0.3% THC are legal to buy and sell under federal law. However, some state laws may impose additional restrictions on possessing hemp-based products. It is a good idea to check your state’s regulations before buying and feeding hemp seed to birds.[5]
There are currently no laws prohibiting feeding hemp seeds to wild birds in your backyard. But it is wise to avoid wasting hemp seeds and monitor bird health closely in case any problems arise that require discontinuing use.
Hemp Seed vs. Marijuana Seeds
It is important to note that hemp seeds are distinct from marijuana seeds. The seeds of marijuana plants contain higher levels of THC that can induce intoxicating effects. Feeding birds marijuana seeds would be dangerous and is illegal.
Make sure any hemp seed product you buy for birds clearly states it contains less than 0.3% THC and is produced from industrial hemp plants, not marijuana plants.
Conclusion
Offering hemp seed to backyard birds has potential nutritional benefits but also carries some risks and considerations. Use good judgment by:
- Making hemp seeds a small part of a varied diet
- Monitoring which species eat the seeds
- Watching for signs of allergy or adverse reactions
- Ensuring seeds stay fresh
- Researching any local regulations on hemp
With careful observation and common sense precautions, you may find hemp seeds can be a nutritious supplement for your backyard buffet. Just be sure to provide a balanced feeding station and let the birds decide if hemp seeds suit their tastes.
