Food is the primary and necessary requirement for every living organism, from tiny insects to large mammals and even plants. Every organism eats according to its body needs and the environment in which it is living. These can be classified into three categories, namely carnivores, herbivores, and omnivores. Carnivore organisms rely on eating meat and flesh, whereas the herbivores are designed to eat grasses, herbs, shrubs, and plants. Omnivore organisms can eat both; meat and plant products. Based on this classification, birds fall into all three categories like mammals. The reason they fall under all three categories is birds usually travel from one place to another. They do not have permanent homes or nests. They move through different areas and adapt themselves according to the region they are living in.
What pigeons eat?
Pigeons, a symbol of peace and harmony, are seed eaters naturally. These birds have a short, stout neck and body. They occur in different color ranges according to their class. White and black pigeons are commonly seen around us. They are diversified and friendly birds. They are considered as one of the earliest birds to be domesticated. In the past, pigeons have served the duty of conveying messages, especially during wars. They get important messages from one place to the other. They have a relatively smaller number of taste buds as compared to human beings. That is why pigeons recognize the taste of fewer things and foods. Pigeons have a protective nature towards their offspring. They take extra care of their eggs and baby pigeons, referred to as squeakers. Pigeons are closely related to doves. They both have the same small body stature and almost eat similar foods.
Pigeons love to eat corn crackers, nuts of different kinds, cereals, and tiny earth-dwelling insects. Their diet also contains fruits and vegetables like apples, grapes, spinach, lettuce, and sprouted seeds. We can also give them leftovers as they do not hesitate to eat them as well. During winters, they prefer oil-based cereals and grains to produce enough body heat to keep themselves warm.
Can pigeons eat shrimps?
Pigeons are scavengers and are specifically granivorous. Granivorous are those birds that prefer eating grains and seeds. But the questions arise, do they eat shrimps? Are shrimps beneficial for them? Well, the answer is Yes! They can eat shrimp, along with other kinds of seafood. Pigeons do not like the texture of shrimps as they are not used to eating them. As the habit developed, they started picking shrimps. Shrimp has so many benefits and perks if we include them in a pigeon’s diet. Listed below is the outline of nutrients present in a 3-ounce shrimp serving:
- Proteins-18 g
- Vitamin B12-21% of reference daily intake
- Selenium-48% of reference daily intake
- Phosphorus-12% of reference daily intake
- Iron-15% of reference daily intake
- Magnesium-7% of reference daily intake
- Zinc-9% of reference daily intake
- Niacin-11% of reference daily intake
- Total calories-84
Why do pigeons eat shrimps?
Shrimps are a great source of minerals, vitamins, and proteins. They are nutritious and possess a delicious taste. Shrimps are interestingly rich in nutrient content though having a low caloric count. They do not contain carbohydrates, and almost 90% of shrimps are proteins. These tiny sea creatures also contain certain antioxidants that purify the blood and eliminate nitrogenous wastes from the body. These antioxidants are necessary for overall body health.
Shrimps are considered best for iodine intake. Iodine is a vital mineral and is considered essential for brain health. They are a good source of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. That is why shrimps are mostly recommended to be eaten during winters. These fatty acids are good for heart muscles. They keep the heart protected and healthy. You can feed your pigeons with shrimps in winter but small dosage as they have tiny stomachs.
We should incorporate shrimps in pigeon’s diets for their eye and bone strength. Shrimps are known for vision and bone health. Skeleton is dependent on bones; if they are strong, the birds will be physically healthy. During flights, eyesight should be precise. If you are giving shrimps to pigeons, their eyes would be protected.
Can pigeons eat dried shrimps?
Again, the answer is yes. Pigeons can consume dried shrimps far better than raw ones. They are a rich source of protein and essential amino acids for birds. Dried shrimps are preferable as they can be crushed into small particles and given to the pigeons. It is easy for the birds to digest dried shrimp as compared to raw shrimp.
Can pigeons eat cooked shrimp?
Pigeons can take cooked shrimps. Just make sure you cook them properly, whether steamed or broiled. Make small pieces of them by crushing them with your hands so that they come in the form of grains. Cooked shrimps are easy to eat and digest as compared to raw shrimps.
Warning!
Do not give shrimps as a daily food item to pigeons. Their digestive system is meant for grains and seeds. If we give them shrimps daily, it will affect them negatively. Try to include shrimps occasionally, approximately twice a month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it necessary to remove the shell of shrimps before giving them to pigeons?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended to remove the scales, shell, skin, and tentacles of shrimps before giving them to pigeons. Pigeons do not have teeth, which means they cannot chew. It means we should give them smooth, adequately cooked, and clean shrimps.
Q: Shrimps hurt pigeon’s health. Is this true?
A: Generally, there is no adverse effect of shrimps on pigeons until they are given fewer shrimps. If they have been consuming a large quantity of shrimp daily, it would be harmful to pigeons.
Conclusion
Pigeons are delicate birds. They should be given the right food and in the right amount. It is recommended to provide them with grains, cereals, and seeds, but shrimps can also be added to their diet. It is advised to give shrimps twice a month and not more than that as their digestive system is not designed to eat shrimps.