by Matilda Willows

Created on: December 19, 2011   Last Updated: December 21, 2011

Quality is essential when looking for the right seed for your pet bird. Pet and grocery stores abound with many varieties and mixes of seeds, but some of them can contain more filler seeds than the real nutritious seeds best for your bird. Birds are quite known to be picky, and different birds take more to different seeds. This article offers some general guidance on how to choose the right seed for your pet bird, although seeds of course shouldn’t be the only form of nutrition but part of a wide variety of foods that include fruits and vegetables as well.

Avoid the low quality seed mixes

When looking for the best seed for your pet bird, try to avoid the low quality mixes. How do you know what are the low quality mixes? Well, one way of knowing is by reading through the ingredients list on the seed mix. If the majority of ingredients and ratio of seeds constitute filler seeds (such as milo, wheat, barley, cracked corn and sometimes non-edible items like hulls and sticks) - then you know this is a low-quality mix. On the other hand, the better-quality seeds do often cost a little more, but usually results in better quality product without as much filler seed. The main issue with filler seeds is that they just provide bulk and are not as nutritious as other seeds. Birds are well-known for being picky, and as a result, they usually end up flicking the filler seeds to the floor or out of their seed tray.

Choosing nutritious seeds

However, there are a number of highly nutritious seeds which are liked by a wide variety of birds, so you can start with any of the following to see which ones your bird takes to. Ideally, provide your bird with a large selection of quality nutritious seeds to notice which ones they take to. It is best for them to eat as much variety as possible.

Black oil sunflower seeds are easy to open, are highly nutritious and a favorite with many birds.

Sunflower hearts are another favorite among many a variety of birds and are considered an excellent source of protein and fat. They make for less waste, however, they have to be checked for their end of life date since without the protective shell, they are susceptible to moisture and therefore rancidity.

Hemp and Nigella (black) seeds (very nutritious) are also options to put out and try, often favored among canaries but other birds like them as well.

Take note of which of the above nutritious seeds your pet bird seems to enjoy, and then buy your own collections of those seeds and feed them to your bird. This way, you can ensure your pet bird is getting a quality seed that is nutritious, and not just filler seed and ones they may not enjoy. By checking to see which seeds they prefer, you will have less waste as a result and only pay for what will be eaten. However, for all things pet-related, it's always highly recommended to visit your local veterinarian to ask for recommendations specific to your variety of bird.

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