Avian
Nutrition is a relatively new field. In the wild birds forge and
consume a wide variety of fruits, berries, vegetables, seeds and
yes, even meat. In captivity we are introducing commercial pellets
to our flocks. A seed only diet is NOT a nutritionally sound diet.
As an example a study was done with budgies. A seed only diet
was fed to one group. The group fed seed only lived an average
of 3-5 years, the group fed fruits, vegetables, grains and healthy
table foods along with their seed diet lived 10-15 years. In our
Aviary we feed seed, soaked seed, a variety of pellets and all
the fresh foods and mashes their dishes will hold, changed twice
daily.
You
probably already have noted on our Healthy Bird website the variety
of foods and supplements we use in our Aviary, as we supply everything
used in our Aviary, exception fresh foods of course!
Protein,
Vitamin A, Whole Grains, Carbohydrates should all form part of
your birds diet. Variety is another key word. That word alone
is important not only for nutrition but psychological. Keep in
mind, with some 350 different species of parrots, all from different
regions of the world and not created equal. They all have different
nutritional needs as well as environments, so research your bird
needs please.
If
your bird is a picky eater with fresh foods and mashes, experiment.
Jo knows her birds love corn on the cob. She also knows it gets
dropped to the floor. She has learnt if she puts it on stainless
steel skewers, it will get eaten and quickly. Very simple, but
very easy solution! Mashes are another great way to serve a nutritious
diet.
Another
one of the most commonly asked questions Jo has is what do I feed
my bird for fresh foods. Once you know your bird and it's nutritional
needs, these food groups will hopefully help you out.
Vitamin
A Veggies - 30%
