One of the most common questions bird owners have is whether to feed seeds or pellets. The answer isn't simple, as both have advantages and disadvantages.

Seed Diets:

Seeds are the natural diet of most birds, but commercial seed mixes often lack essential nutrients. Problems with seed-only diets include:

• Nutritional imbalances (often deficient in calcium, vitamin A, and amino acids)
• High fat content leading to obesity
• Selective eating (birds pick favorite seeds and ignore others)

Pelleted Diets:

Pellets are formulated to provide complete nutrition. Advantages include:

• Balanced nutrition in every bite
• Less waste and mess
• Reduced risk of nutritional deficiencies

However, some birds refuse pellets, and not all brands are equally nutritious.

Our Recommendation:

A combination approach works best for most birds:

• 60-80% high-quality pellets as the dietary base
• 20-30% fresh vegetables and some fruits
• 5-10% seeds as treats or foraging enrichment

Always provide fresh water and consult an avian vet about your specific bird's needs, as requirements vary by species.