Tips for Preparing a Seed Diet

Seed mixes are still readily available for most birds and with some careful consideration you can choose the best seed available. Choose a seed mix with little or no sunflower seed. It should be clean with no insects or webbing in a tightly sealed package. Some seed mixes come with a variety of extras like dehydrated fruits and vegetables. Make sure it is appropriate for the species of bird that you have. The right seed mix will depend on the bird that you own. Take care not to choose a mix for a bird larger than the bird you are feeding or he will not be able to crack open the shells and get the nutrition that he needs.

Storing: Keep you seed mixes stored in an airtight container in a cool dry place. You don't want your seed to go rancid or be infested with any pests. You also want to ensure that seeds are not spoiled by bacteria. Moths in the seed are not dangerous, but can be a nuisance in the house. You can kill the moths and their eggs by freezing all seed for 48 hours. However, you want to watch out

To eliminate bugs as well as bacteria, you can also use the microwave.

• Place seed in a microwavable glass pan no more than one inch deep.
• Run the microwave on high for two minutes.
• Stir seed.
• Microwave another two minutes.
• Repeat for a total of six minutes, sterilizing stirring utensils in between.
• Cool seed.
• Refrigerate in an airtight plastic container.

Feeding: Feed only fresh seed. Seed that is contaminated by bacteria, pesticides, or rodent droppings can be poisonous to birds. Always check seed before feeding. Also, dump old seed and feed new seed every day. The remaining hulls may trick you into believing that your bird has plenty of food. Many birds have starved because their owners though they had plenty of food in their bowl. Always give your bird fresh water every morning, or twice a day if sullied with seed hulls and other debris.