Why not feed birds seeds?

Seeds have been fed to pet birds for many years, birds like them and eat them readily. Many owners believe that because wild birds eat seeds, so should pet birds. However, are they a good nutritional option for the bird? Seeds have a very high fat content, around 50%, they also lack adequate vitamin A and calcium. In the wild, birds eat a variety of seeds in different seasons and supplement them with berries, bugs and other greens, creating a nutritionally balanced diet. Wild birds also require a higher calorie content than captive birds- expending more energy on flying.

When seeds are fed in too high a quantity this can lead to various nutritionally related diseases, the most common of which are atherosclerosis and stroke¹. Beyond this, hepatic lipidosis, liver failure, obesity, goiter, egg binding and seizures¹. Lack of calcium can lead to nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism. Hypovitaminosis A is associated with squamous metaplasia which in turn can lead to chronic rhinitis and fungal respiratory infections². Hypovitaminosis A can also produce feather and skin problems³, eye pathology and impaired vision². Ultimately, poor diet leads to shorter lifespan and poorer life quality.

Human equivalent

Whilst many people enjoy a take-away, burger or fried chicken from time to time, we acknowledge that eating them every day will have detrimental effects on our health. Feeding pet birds seed exclusively is, nutritionally speaking, tantamount to the same thing. A better option, recommended by most avian veterinarians, is a commercial pelleted diet; these are nutritionally complete and should be the foundation of a bird’s diet. Commercial pellets are fortified with essential vitamins, minerals and amino acids to support the bird’s health.

Conversion

Many owners are daunted by the prospect of converting their birds onto a commercial pelleted diet, however there are conversion methods suitable for most types and ages of birds. With the support and advice of their veterinarian, almost all birds can be converted. The three most common methods are outlined below, and are explored in more detail in the accompanying articles.

1. Tough loveThis method can be applied to most birds of any species and age, provided they accept new food in their cage and enjoy eating treats! However, consistency and routine are key, and a certain amount of tough love must be applied- so owners need some resilience. However, owing to this small degree of deprivation, results are usually obtained very fast- sometimes in as little as 3 days.
2. Slow and steadyThis plan is suitable for foot feeding birds of Conure size or larger. Birds should be fully mature- usually over 3 years; often shy birds, who feed mainly in their cages, do well with this plan. Over the course of a week or more, the bird transitions slowly from old food to new pellet-based diet. By offering the new food at times when the bird is hungry, he is more likely to try the new diet. It may take several days until the birds recognises the new offering as food, so does require patience on behalf of the owner. This is probably the most popular choice amongst bird owners.
3. Birdie’s choiceFor smaller birds (cockatiel or smaller) 3 years or under, this is an excellent method. Usually the bird should be a ground feeding species, and it helps if they are finger tame. Essentially the bird is offered the choice of three pelleted diets, of various colour and shapes, from which he makes his own selection. Typically, the selection is done on a table top or mirror with interaction and praise from the owner. Once the bird has shown a preference this selected food is put in the cage. This is usually a fast and effective method.

ZuPreem offers a variety of pelleted complete diets suitable for all species and ages of birds. They recommend a base of at least 60% Essential Nutrition pellets with the remaining portion being made up of up to 30% Enriching Variety mixes and no more than 10% Rewarding Treats. This Feed Smart program allows owners to feed a variety of different foods to their bird, whilst at the same time feeling confident they are providing optimum balanced nutrition for a healthy and long life.

References;

1 Bavelaar, F J, and A C Beynen. “Atherosclerosis in parrots. A review.” The veterinary quarterly vol. 26,2 (2004): 50-60
2 Schoemaker, N J et al. “Voedingsgerelateerde problemen bij gezelschapsvogels” [Nutrition-related problems in pet birds]. Tijdschrift voor diergeneeskunde vol. 124,2 (1999): 39-43.
3 Perry, R. A., Gill, J., & Cross, G. M. (1991). Disorders of the avian integument. The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice, 21(6), 1307–1327. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0195-5616(91)50141-8

Postdate: 25th March 2020