Birds are amazing companions, and when properly looked after, can live long & healthy lives. Whether you're feeding parakeets and budgies, or wild birds outside, we have the expertise and experience to help guide you to the best food. All bird's nutritional requirements are different, and what works best for some won't provide adequate nutrition for others. Therefore, we proudly provide the Minneapolis area with the very best food for your feathered friends, improving their health and extending their lives.
Wild bird vs pet bird food:
Wild bird food, depending on where you live, is usually a blend of different types of seeds, including thistle, sunflower, safflower, millet, and sorghum. Additionally, many wild bird feeds include peanuts and corn, which are preferred by certain species like cardinals and blue jays. Wild bird food is diverse in order to attract as many different species as possible. So while it meets their calorie requirements, it's not dialed-in nutritionally like domestic bird food.
Domestic bird food is usually a blend of similar seeds, with nutritionally thick pellets added in. Conures, doves, and pigeons love millet, as do budgies and parakeets. They also enjoy safflower and sunflower seeds when they're hulled, though parrots and hookbills will prefer bigger seed types.
Food for pets will have prebiotic fiber and probiotic ingredients included, as well as a range of various other all-natural seeds and fruits. These strengthen the immune and digestive function of your birds, and more closely imitate their natural diet, which wouldn't normally contain a few types of seeds.
Ensuring adequate nutrition:
Birds need prebiotics and probiotics to keep their digestive functions working efficiently. Omega-3 fatty acids from nuts and seeds supply fat for their brains and nerves, and improves the gloss and shine of their feathers, while the different vitamins and micronutrients keep them healthy overall. Additionally, as your bird ages, you will want to consult a specialist on what type of food you should be feeding them. Younger birds have different dietary requirements than older birds, and altering their food requires care and needs to be done slowly, as birds can have picky digestive systems. Gradually incorporate the new food into your bird's dish, replacing more of the old seed with the new food every day to guarantee proper adherence to the new diet.
At Urban Tails Pet Supply, we specialize in ensuring your bird is provided with the very best nutrition for their specific needs. Whether you're feeding wild birds in your backyard, or a parakeet in your home, our friendly, experienced staff has your back. If you're in the Minneapolis area, give us a call at (612) 879-0709 and we can help optimize your bird's feed for a long, healthy life.