Nourishment and Wellbeing II

Text Box: Beside having some knowledge of seeds and their nourishment values you should know what other feeds and supplements are beneficial and necessary so that you may provide the best and most complete nourishment possible for your birds, this is the best insurance against deficiencies that may contribute to weakening the natural defense system and bring about sickness. In canaries it is very difficult to diagnose, treat and cure ailments. The best solution is prevention, the first step good nutrition, second step avoid insects, internal and external parasites and the third step general hygiene and adequate management in and around the aviary.

Pellets – pelleted food is scientifically produced specifically for small birds You may offer it free choice or as the only feeding source, birds need to be monitored when switching is done to make sure they are accepting the change.

Rape is very easy to cultivate from seed and it is good source of green food which canaries love, they will eat the leafs, the flowers the seeds at any stage of maturation , and the stalks. Grows about 3 or 4 feet high in any kind of soil.

Broccoli – for those of you who do not have the time or desire to germinate or plant seeds broccoli is an excellent source of greens with high vitamin and mineral content and availability make it a preferred vegetable among breeders

Carrots- high content of beta-carotene which converts to vitamin A, very useful when preparing nesting food with colorants.

Fruits - apples, oranges, figs and mangoes are the most used but other alternatives are available.

Dandelion grows wild in most countries and it is very easy to cultivate elsewhere. High vitamin and mineral content and choline, a good tonic to help cleanse the liver.

Cucumbers– a favorite with canaries, easy to cultivate, easy to find and a good and refreshing alternative.

Hot and Sweet Peppers- in olden times red peppers were used as a source of colorant for Norwich canaries until Canthaxanthin was discovered. Very accessible and easy to grow and a good alternative any time.

Cuttlebone - a good source of calcium and trace elements.

Vitamins, Minerals and Aminoacids - are very necessary in a balanced feeding program. Make sure they are fresh by checking expiration dates, keep refrigerated and avoid administering in the drinking water.

Germinated Seeds (sprouts) or Soaked Seeds is one of the most nourishing foods that you can offer any caged bird, because of its high vitamin and amino acid content. PROCEDURE: Buy seeds that re specially mixed for this purpose. In a large bowl soak in tepid water one or two cups for 8 hours. Rinse until water is crystal clear and drain completely, scatter the seeds in the bowl and repeat the wash and drain procedure every 12 hours until the seed has sprouted, 2 or 3 days should be sufficient. Always smell the seeds it should have a nutty aroma. Store in the refrigerator. Offer mixed with nesting food or dry egg food, or offer mixed with probiotics or vitamin powder or as a treat by itself. To plain canary seed and rape you can add some small sunflower seed and a mixture of millet to germinate. For soaked seed simply soak for 8-9 hours in warm water, rinse thoroughly and feed.