What do you feed your bird?

Seed vs pellets, also fruits and veggies

When it comes to feeding birds, understanding the dietary needs of different species is essential. Here’s a breakdown of when to feed seeds, pellets, and fruits and vegetables to various types of birds:

Seeds

Seeds are a common food source for many birds, particularly granivorous species. Here’s when to feed them:

• Parakeets and Budgerigars: Seeds should be the primary diet, offered daily. A mix of seeds can be provided, including millet and canary seed.

• Finches: These birds thrive on a variety of seeds. Offer seed mixes daily, supplemented with fresh greens.

• Doves and Pigeons: Seeds can be fed daily, focusing on larger seeds like millet, corn, and sunflower seeds.

Pellets

Pellets are specially formulated to provide balanced nutrition for birds. Here’s when to use them:

• Conures and Cockatiels: Pellets can be the main diet, offered daily. Introduce them gradually if switching from seeds.

• African Grey Parrots: A diet consisting of pellets is recommended, with a daily serving to ensure nutritional balance.

• Amazon Parrots: Pellets should be a significant part of their diet, supplemented with seeds and fresh produce.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are important for providing vitamins and minerals. Here’s when to feed them:

• All Birds: Fresh fruits and vegetables should be offered daily as a supplement to seeds or pellets.

• Parrots: They enjoy a variety of fruits like apples, bananas, and berries. Leafy greens like kale and spinach are also beneficial.

• Canaries: Small pieces of fruits and veggies can be offered a few times a week to enhance their diet.

In summary, a balanced diet for birds typically includes a combination of seeds, pellets, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Always ensure that the food provided is appropriate for the specific species of bird you are caring for.