A Comprehensive Guide to Optimal Pet Bird Nutrition: Feeding Pet Birds the Right Way

Pet Bird Nutrition

It goes without saying that a well-nourished bird would live healthier, longer, and free from diseases. A common misconception is that birds live on seeds only, which is completely wrong. Seeds do not provide full nutrition to birds as many different types of seeds lack some of the important nutrients, like vitamins and minerals, and would serve only as fatty food, leading to bird obesity.

In this post today, we would reveal to you all the important guidelines for your pet bird nutrition so The nutritional requirements of exotic birds are strong for the rest of their healthy lives. 

What Is The Best Nutrition For Birds?

Birds living in the wild, open in the air can feed themselves with a variety of food items. Birds at home can only eat what is available or what the pet owner gives them to eat. Keeping a variety of food items so that not only the bird gets bored but also he gets full nutrition is a big question mark.  

Pet bird nutrition should be such that should give him a completely healthy lifestyle. It should include fruits, vegetables, seeds, and pellets. The nutrients present in these food items offer them the building blocks for healthy skin, staying active, clean feather production, and maintaining a happy attitude. 

The elements of pet bird nutrition inculcate proteins, minerals, vitamins, carbohydrates and fiber, and lipids. It is just the same as humans need nutrition for staying healthy and active. However, keep in mind, the birds should take these nutrients in a wholesome manner so that they are absorbed in the body thoroughly.

Which Bird Seed Is High In Protein? 

Black oil sunflower seeds are considered one of the best bird seeds which are high in protein. Although, It is important not to ignore other bird seeds, when it comes to a balanced diet for the bird, keep some Black oil sunflower seeds mixed in your pet bird’s daily diet for better nutrition. 

They are high in protein, fiber, vitamin E, vitamin B-complex, calcium, iron, and potassium- one of the best food for birds. The birds specifically on a seed diet should receive every form of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Why? Because only seeds might not provide all of the above-mentioned nutrients.

Especially for picky eater birds who might want to pick their favorite seeds out of the several kinds that you put in a bowl in front of them. In this way, they would get a selected nutritional value. 

Also, some seeds are high in fat and low in vitamins and minerals. It would only serve the purpose of ‘junk food’ and not as the best food for birds in which they should have a variety. 

Bird Nutrition Facts 

One of the most noted concerns for pet birds is explained previously that seed diets alone might not be able to provide full nutrition to your bird. As normal wild birds are able to gather their own food daily that has a full variety. Wild birds can get all types of nutrients one way or the other.

Since pet birds have limited options, it would not be a good idea for the pet owner to give them seeds only. The pet bird needs a mixture of seeds, fruits, veggies, and nuts to make a complete fortified meal. 

A highlighted bird nutrition fact that every pet owner must know is that apart from giving him raw fruits and veggies, you should give him formulated diets too. Formulated diets are ‘pellets’ that are ready-made blends of dried grains, seeds, fruits, and veggies. The required levels of vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and fibers are cater to with these pellets. 

Many pet companies make this nutritional pet bird food that has not only delicious flavor for the bird but a tempting smell. It is so because attracting birds to eat full nutrition is necessary, especially for picky eaters. 

Another noteworthy bird nutrition fact, particularly for fussy eaters, is that if the bird is not eating all types of food essential for his healthy living, you should consider giving him supplements. Consult your bird’s vet for this concern and know in what form the supplements should be given, either in water or in food. 

Bird Diet Chart 

Below are two infographics that would give you an idea of an accurate bird diet chart. You can use these diet charts to know what to feed your bird. Also, these bird diet charts would be a great help if you are a new pet owner and excited to pet your first bird at home. 

How Should I Feed Something That Is Healthy But My Pet Bird Picky Eater Does Not Like?

Picky eaters could create a fuss when it comes to giving them a full nutrition-packed meal. They might like one thing and would run away from the other. For these pets, you might try mixing and matching to attract them to eat all of the food items.

You can pick the food for birds from home, such as bright orange and yellow fruits or veggies. They appear attractive to the picky eater birds. You can mix these pieces with other colored bite-sized pieces of food, either raw or cooked.  

Furthermore, you can get any leafy green food for birds from home, such as spinach leaves, wash them and hang them for the bird to come and eat on his own. The dripping water droplets from freshly washed green veggie leaves would instantly entice the bird. 

Conclusion

Proper pet bird nutrition is essential for the health and well-being of pet birds. A varied diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables, high-quality pellets, and occasional treats can supply the nutrients required for a bird’s development, energy, and immune system.

Owners should also provide clean water and a safe, sanitary feeding area for their birds. To establish the exact dietary needs of a certain bird species, contact a veterinarian or avian specialist. Owners may ensure a long and healthy life for their feathered companion by emphasizing their pet bird’s nutrition.