Healthy Pickings

Listen to this article

It’s important for bird owners to know what to feed their feathered pets. Bird seeds? Bird pellets? Raw fruits and vegetables?

“Even when multiple types of seed are offered, the seed-only diet will not supply the necessary array of vitamins and minerals that is needed for optimal health,” PetCoach states in an article on avian nutrition.

While there are many opinions regarding the seed-pellet debate, one thing is clear: The ideal avian diet is more complex than simply seeds or pellets. And a balanced diet based on proper nutrition, combined with foraging toys being used to enliven a bird’s meal times, may prevent many health and behavior problems.

Companion birds require specific amounts of nutrients to maintain their immune system, plumage and energy levels. This often results in a varied diet that can include a mix of seeds and pellets, but also fruits and vegetables.

Many brands are stepping up to the plate to deliver various food and treat types, textures and flavors that entice a bird’s personal preference without sacrificing the nutrients they need to boost their overall health.

These assorted products feature enriching ingredients and mouthwatering flavors that birds and their owners love. Not only do they give birds the essentials for a long, healthy life, but they meet the individual needs of even the choosiest of birds.

Crazy Good Cookin’

Sunseed Crazy Good Cookin’ makes a great snack for pet birds of all sizes! Each cookable mix is made with a blend of real wholesome ingredients that provides important enrichment and extra nutrients to a bird’s daily diet. Try all five delicious varieties: Nutty Noodle, Jungle Rice, Pastamoré, Kung Fu-licious and Cajun Bean & Corn.

www.vitakraftsunseed.com

Ultimate Avian Formula

The Missing Link Original Avian Formula adds the missing daily nutrition birds in captivity need. With Omega-3 essential fatty acids, dietary fiber and phytonutrients, this powerful supplement powder supports digestive health, sustained energy levels, fertility and overall wellness. In fact, a sprinkle or two

has been known to make plumage thicker and enhance color and shine.

www.missinglinkproducts.com

TOP’s Mini Pellets

Measuring 3/32 inches in diameter and resembling a small jewelry bead, the Mini Pellets are USDA Organic Certified and made with the same ingredients as the company’s two other pellet sizes. The Minis are all-natural and free from fillers, artificial ingredients and sugars. They are packaged in white, stand-up pouches that complement the company’s gold and silver packaging, so customers can differentiate between the Large, Small and Mini pellet sizes.

www.topsparrotfood.com

Kaytee Forti-Diet

Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Conure and Lovebird food was developed by an avian nutritional expert to ensure pets get the proper nutrition. Forti-Diet Pro Health contains probiotics and prebiotics to support digestive health. This food is rich in natural antioxidants for general health and immune support, plus it contains pieces to support skin and feather health.

www.kaytee.com

Featherglow Fancy Soak & Simmer

Featherglow Fancy Soak & Simmer makes a great addition to both seed and pellet diets. Birds will love this protein-packed legume and grain mix that can be served with fresh chop or by itself. Pet owners should show their birds that they love them with a home-cooked meal.

www.seedfactory.com

Higgins inTune

The inTune family of bird food products consists of extruded, complete and balanced diets formulated without the use of artificial flavors or preservatives. Higgins inTune uses natural aroma and colors sourced from seeds, spices and vegetables. These products also contain protected probiotics and balanced DHA Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to support immunity. Available for macaws, parrots, conures/cockatiels, parakeets, lorikeets and as a hand-feeding formula for all baby birds.

www.higginspremium.com

Classic Nutri-Berries

Formulated by Dr. T.J. Lafeber and avian nutritionists, the Classic Nutri-Berries line of bird food can be given as a complete daily diet or a nutritious treat. The Nutri-Berries shape offers important beak play and exercise, which helps prevent boredom and feather picking. The food provides the vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants to help support healthy skin, feathers and immune system that will enable a companion bird to live a long and robust life.

www.lafeber.com