Rick
Hatchling
Posts: 11 
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Post by Rick on Oct 12, 2017 9:57:26 GMT -5
Hello all,
I was reading into seed diet for my quaker and read that they are too fatty and that sunflower seeds can carry a fungus that isn't hood for your bird. I thought that seeds+the daily fruit/veg I was giving him was good. (Note that he prefers the seeds over fruit and veg).
Should I buy some quality pellet food and more him to that?
Thank you:)
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Post by easttex on Oct 12, 2017 11:42:50 GMT -5
Most definitely yes on pellets over seeds. They can't get the nutrition they need on seeds. I hadn't read that about fungus in sunflower seeds, but it is commonly known as a problem with unshelled peanuts. Too many sunflower seeds, in addition to being fatty, will deplete the calcium they need.
Kiki may be a little resistant to pellets at first, and you may have to experiment with sizes, colors, etc. Be persistent, and you'll get it done. Since he does like the seeds, you might be able to use his favorites as training motivators.
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Post by cnyguy on Oct 12, 2017 20:12:54 GMT -5
A pellet-based diet is healthier for parrots than a seed-based one. Getting Kiki started on pellets is a good choice. You may have to experiment with a few different brands and types before you find the one that Kiki will really like. If Kiki is reluctant to eat the dry pellets, try softening them with some water or unsweetened fruit juice. Parrots not used to eating pellets will often accept the softened ones more readily than dry pellets. My two parrots eat the dry ones, but still expect some softened ones every day and enjoy them a lot. Here is an article on converting a QP to a pellet diet from the companion site quakerparrots.com that you might find helpful. My parrots get a small amount of seed every day, along with pellets, vegetables and cooked grains or pasta. They like the better quality Higgins Safflower Gold and California Blend seed mixes, which contain no sunflower seeds, but do have a few pellets, dried fruits and vegetables and nuts in the mix. |
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Rick
Hatchling
Posts: 11
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Post by Rick on Oct 12, 2017 21:26:13 GMT -5
Thank you for your replies:)
I do feel a little silly now. I either read bad info or didn't read it properly. Doh:(
I shall get some pellets on my next payday. He is eating some veg. Earlier he had broccoli,cauliflower,carrots and some green peas. And seed mix.
I will sort him out with some quality pellets as soon as can and I will read through the converting link you have given me.
Thanks again Rick :-)
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