Nyjer Seed is a great nutritional value for small birds and medium size alike. It has 35% fat, 18% protein, 18% fiber, 12% sugars, and only 12% moisture. This is popular as a winter bird food as birds need more oil and calorie intake as a way they can store fat for winter survival. Sometimes, in the late summer or fall as many flowers naturally offer birds great foraging opportunities and Nyjer seed won't be consumed as much during this period. Fall will see many Finches and Pine Siskin back on the feeders for this highly favored seed source. The properties in Nyjer seed (not Thistle) support good overall health for wild birds. This seed is sterilized as it sprouts quite easily and threatens native plant live. This seed comes mostly from India or places in Africa such as Kenya. Finches, Pine Siskin, and Repoll all readily consume this hearty black seed.