Common seed types

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Common Seed Types for Birds and Bird Feeders- The Top Eight Seed Types

Millets -The millets are a group of small-seeded species of cereal crops, which are extensively grown around the world for food and fodder. They form a functional group, based on comparable characteristics and uses. The millets include species in several genera, mostly in the subfamilyPanicoideae, of the grass family Poaceae. The most widely cultivated species in order of worldwide production are:

Pearl millet - Since prehistoric times, pearl millet has been the most widely grown species of millet and is grown in India and Africa. It is now commonly known that pearl millet originated in Africa and brought into India from there. Pearl millet adapts to areas with low rainfall, low soil fertility, and high temperatures, and can, therefore, be grown in regions where other cereal crops, such as wheat or maize, would not survive.

Today pearl millet is grown on over 26 million areas worldwide. In its traditional growing areas, pearl millet is the basic staple for households in the poorest countries and among the poorest people. The grain is used in breads, porridges, boiled or steamed foods, and (alcoholic) beverages. In northern Africa, pearl millet is an important ingredient of couscous. The stalks are important for building materials, fuel and livestock feed.

In non-traditional growing areas in the USA, Brazil, Australia, and Europe, pearl millet is grown as both a forage and grain crop. The forage is used by cattle and other livestock. The grain is used to feed cattle and birds, particularly poultry, gamebirds for recreational hunting, and domesticated pets. Pearl millet grain is showing evidence as a feedstock for ethanol production.