Should you use a vitamin supplement?

This is something a lot of bird owners wonder about. Some swear by using vitamin supplements, some don’t. A lot of new bid owners struggle with the decision. Here’s some things to consider when deciding.


I personally don’t use vitamin supplements unless my vet suggests them.

You can use a supplement and overdose your bird on vitamins it doesn’t need or is getting too much of. This can lead to help problems.

It’s hard to decide on what supplement to use. There are supplements for a few species of birds, but not one for each type of bird.

If you feed a healthy diet of commercial pellets and a variety of fruits and vegetables, supplements aren’t necessary.

Each bird is individual. If you think your bird might need a vitamin supplement, you should check with your vet first, do your research and make an educated decision.


Read more...

What diet should your bird be on?

Different species of birds require a little bit different diets than others. Some species require a little more of things than others for optimum health. Here’s a few suggestion to keep you bird healthy.

Most modern pelleted diets are made with specific species of birds in mine. Sometimes those are just not quite enough. In an effort to give you bird the best diet possible, sometimes you have to supplement.

African Grey parrots can develop a calcium deficiency. Your avian vet can run tests to check for the deficiency. The use of calcium supplements can cause your bird to get too much. Balance is key. Giving you African Grey almonds and broccoli can help prevent a lack of calcium. These birds enjoy raw, unprocessed almonds in the shell. It gives them a game to play, crack off the shell and get the almond inside as a reward.

Amazon, caiques and Pionus parrots can become overweight causing fatty liver disease. These birds need to get plenty of exercise and be kept away from too many treats. You can provide with a play gym or a huge variety of toys to play with. My White Capped Pionus like to be swung around so she can flap her wings, it’s great bonding time and exercise for her. These birds should also be offered a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Cockatiels can develop vitamin-A deficiencies. You should integrate lots of vitamin-A rich fruits and vegetables into their diets. Things like kale, broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes and mangoes.

Macaws can sometimes be picky eaters. They are attracted to colors, so fruits and veggies of varying shapes, sizes and colors are best to peak their interest. I have found that oranges cut in half will get their attention. They also love almonds in the shell, green beans and even yams.

I’ve only covered a few of the more popular birds that people own. If you own one not listed here, feel free to email me with any questions. Or just let me know what kind of bird you have and I’ll try to include it in future posts.


Read more...

Welcome

I have loved birds my entire life. I’ve spent the last 10+ years rehoming birds and helping bird owners with their birds.

I love all birds and enjoy talking about them…constantly.

I love meeting fellow bird lovers, hearing stories, seeing pictures, and being as helpful as I can be.

I've had a flock as large as 27 birds. And I've been companion to everything from lovebirds to Cockatiels to Quakers to Umbrella Cockatoos to Blue and Gold Macaws. And everything in between.

I don't claim to know everything, no one does. But I've been through the school of first hand experience and like to share.

So a blog about birds seemed only natural. I can’t wait to get to know everyone and talk about our feathered kids.

Regular posts will begin soon. And all questions and comment are welcome.


Read more...