Issue 2
The
Nuts and Bolts of Bird Nutrition
It is unfortunate that many bird owners are led to believe seed
and seed treats provide complete nutrition for birds. No seed diet
is complete and although they are convenient, they are deficient
in many vitamins, minerals and amino acids. They are also very high
in fat. These nutritional imbalances can lead to many diseases including
tumors, heart disease, reproductive disorders, obesity and a shortened
lifespan.
So
what constitutes a balanced diet for birds? This is one of the most
challenging questions in bird care. Each species has its own needs
but there is limited research on these requirements. We do know
that birds in the wild consume more than just seed. They eat berries,
grains, greens and even insects. Thus, the best we can do to meet
their needs is to provide a variety of nutritious foods. Commercial
pelleted diets for birds are a good place to start and should comprise
70-80 percent of the diet. Pelleted diets cannot meet the needs
of every species, so they should be supplemented with healthy foods
such as fresh vegetables (esp. dark leafy greens and cooked legumes),
some fruits, and grains (whole wheat bread, brown rice, etc.). Protein
sources such as eggs or cooked meat can be offered in small amounts.
It is important to note that a bird on a well-balanced diet does
not need vitamin supplements. In fact, over supplementation can
cause disease.
There
are many different techniques to convert a bird from a seed diet
to a healthy diet. To convert a "seed junkie" requires a commitment
on your part and a lot of patience and persistence as it can take
months. One method of conversion consists of simply mixing the pellets
with the seed diet (put the pellets on top so they have to work
to get to the seeds) and gradually decrease the seed portion until
only pellets are in the dish. Fresh vegetables and limited fruits
can be offered in a separate dish and must be changed daily to prevent
bacterial growth. Some birds might be afraid of new things and therefore
hesitant to try new foods. If they see you eating the new foods
they might be more willing to try them. In addition, new food can
be offered as toys. For instance, leafy green vegetables can be
hung in the cage using millet treat holders. Bird safe carousel
feeders or bird kabobs can also be used. When changing the bird's
diet, it is important to monitor total food consumption. If the
bird throws a lot of food, its weight should be monitored daily.
Under no circumstances should the bird be starved until it eats
a new diet. Changes should not be attempted in sick, debilitated
or stressed birds.
Additional
information can be found in many bird books and on the packaging
of pelleted diets. A healthy diet is the first step to a long healthy
life for your companion. If you have any questions, please call
us! (847) 516-8190
|
