If you live in the city, pigeons are a common sight. There are many types of pigeons, and there are usually in 3 colors that are blue-black, ash-red, brown, and sometimes just plain white. They’re all domestic which makes it so that they can be kept as pets indoors and outdoors. Pigeons are friendly birds that will easily become comfortable with anyone who feeds them. Although there are several misconceptions about this bird that might make some people vary in keeping them as pets, bird lovers and owners know that pigeons are harmless and easygoing animals that just need their daily basic needs to be met to thrive. They are affectionate birds that can live with other pet animals that you might have in your home, like cats and dogs. They aren’t loud or disruptive and do not require special attention that would affect your day-to-day life.
As a pet owner, you’re always concerned whether or not you’re doing the best you can when taking care of your pets and the diet they require is one of the main concerns anyone would have. Providing for your pets and seeing them happy and thriving is a rewarding experience. When keeping birds as pets, it’s always important to know if the food you’re feeding them will provide them sustenance and allow them to have a fulfilling life.
While all birds may commonly eat seeds or grains, every bird has different dietary preferences that must be considered. If you are a dedicated bird keeper, you might want to research whether some diets may work for your birds or not. However, if you are wondering if you can feed Finch Food to a pigeon, you have come to the right place.
What Is Finch Food And Can You Feed It To Your Pigeon?
So, can your pigeons eat finch food? Yes, they can. Pigeons are generally not fussy eaters. Finch food consists of all the common foods a bird might need. Finch food mainly consists of seeds, and the small birds have a particular liking for Nyjer and Sunflower seeds. While 50% of their diet would consist of seeds, the other 50% would be different fresh foods like brightly colored vegetables, fruits, and dried fruit as well, which is not so different from what a normal pigeon diet would require, as it is a very common mix of foods that every bird eats. There is relatively not much of a difference between what food a finch might consume compared to a pigeon, both require a well-balanced nutritional diet consisting of seeds and other fresh foods and fresh water every day.
Although you can feed your pigeon finch food, certain pigeon food mixes are available that might be easier to navigate as they might provide the nutrition specifically beneficial for your bird. They are ready-made and catering to every bird’s needs, mixed with all the right substances required to maintain a healthy diet for your pet bird. While your pigeons will eat finch food, they should consume their specific diet.
Do Pigeons Prefer Specific Foods?
Pigeons aren’t picky about what they eat. They mainly munch on grains, fruits, vegetables, seeds, but they are not herbivores as they might even eat insects or worms. Human food that has nutritional value is not off-limits either, however, it is suggested to not feed them human food too often. Since a pigeon’s diet is not very restrictive, feeding them is not much of a hassle. But to optimize your bird’s health, it’s important to maintain a well-balanced protein-rich diet, consisting of all the important nutrients your pigeon might need.
If you’re concerned about whether or not your bird requires some special foods, talking to a veterinarian might be helpful to figure out what specific elements you should add to your pigeon’s everyday diet.
Should You Convert Your Pigeons To A Pellet-Based Diet?
While seeds provide the calcium your pigeon needs, it is recommended to convert them to a pelleted diet as it is ideal for all birds. Pellet based diet mixed with vitamins can make your birds healthier, as it provides the protein your bird needs.
It is important to note that while protein is a staple in a pigeon’s diet, the amount of protein in their diet should be increased when dealing with breeding, weaning, laying eggs, or flying. With time and patience, it becomes easier to understand your pet’s needs and adjust accordingly.
What Foods To Avoid Feeding To Your Pigeon
Since pigeons are social birds, they love to share mealtime with their human caretakers which might lead to you sharing some of your food with your pet and yes, pigeons can and will eat human food, but there are certain foods that we might enjoy but they can be toxic for these delicate creatures. Certain things like caffeine, chocolate, and salt can be hazardous as they might affect their system, causing serious harm ranging from dehydration to even worse things, like death. Even though you’re encouraged to add fruits and vegetables to your pet bird’s diet, it is important to know that things like apple seeds, fruit pits, avocados, garlic, and onions are not suitable for them.
Conclusion
Pigeons are ideal pets to keep as long as their basic needs are met. They’re easygoing and you don’t have to worry too much about what kind of diet they get as long as it’s not toxic to them! It’s always necessary to know what certain foods might be the most beneficial for your pet pigeons but there isn’t much to stress about when it comes to keeping pigeons. As long as you follow a diet that covers their basic nutritional needs, provides them with the right vitamins and protein, you’re good to go! Keep adding and mixing different fruits and vegetables to keep them excited, and if any specific concerns arise, it is always okay to consult a vet!