Calcium is an essential mineral for birds that aids in bone formation, muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and various enzyme functions. Birds, like all animals, require adequate amounts of calcium for proper growth, development, and health. The best sources of calcium for pet birds are ones that are easily absorbed and utilized by their bodies. This article will examine the calcium requirements for different types of birds, the best natural sources of calcium to include in their diet, and calcium supplementation options.
Calcium Requirements for Birds
The amount of calcium a bird needs depends on its species, age, size, and reproductive status. Calcium is particularly important for growing birds and breeding hens that are producing eggs. The actual calcium content needed ranges considerably:
Budgerigars
– Adult budgies: 0.3-0.5% of diet
– Breeding hens: 1.5-2.5% during egg laying
Cockatiels
– Adult cockatiels: 0.5-0.8% of diet
– Breeding hens: 2-2.5% during egg laying
African grey parrots
– Adult greys: 0.8-1.2% of diet
– Breeding hens: 2-3% during egg laying
Amazons
– Adult amazons: 0.8-1.5% of diet
– Breeding hens: 2-3% during egg laying
Macaws
– Adult macaws: 0.6-1% of diet
– Breeding hens: 2-3% during egg laying
The increased calcium demand during egg laying is due to the large amount of calcium required to produce egg shells. A single egg may contain up to 2% of a bird’s total body calcium.
Birds that are fed seed-only diets are at increased risk for calcium deficiency since most seeds are low in calcium. Pelleted diets usually contain added calcium to meet birds’ needs.
Best Natural Calcium Sources for Birds
There are several good food sources that can provide natural dietary calcium for birds:
Kale
Kale is a leafy green vegetable that is rich in highly bioavailable calcium. It contains about 245 mg of calcium per 100 grams. Kale is also packed with other beneficial nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Both curly kale and dinosaur kale are good options for birds.
Collard Greens
Like kale, collard greens are an excellent source of calcium and other vital nutrients for birds. Collards contain 232 mg of calcium per 100 grams. They are also a source of vitamin K and antioxidant pigments.
Broccoli
Broccoli florets are a nutritious choice providing 102 mg of calcium per 100 gram serving. Broccoli is low in fat and supplies antioxidants like vitamins C and E. Both raw and cooked broccoli can be fed to birds.
Green Beans
Green beans offer a crunchy calcium source at 37 mg per 100 grams. They are also packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, silicon, and fiber. Fresh or frozen green beans make a healthy addition to bird diets.
Figs
Figs are a high calcium fruit, providing 135 mg per 100 gram serving. They are also rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants. Dried or fresh figs can be offered to birds in moderation.
Corn
Plain corn kernels contain small amounts of calcium (7 mg per 100 grams) but birds tend to consume more volume of corn compared to other foods. So this common bird food can contribute noticeably to total calcium intake.
Legumes
Beans like garbanzo beans, lentils, and split peas provide some calcium, ranging from 40-80 mg per cooked cup. Bean sprouts are also a source of calcium for birds.
Nuts & Seeds
Almonds, walnuts, brazil nuts, sesame seeds, and chia seeds are moderately good sources of calcium, ranging from 70-250 mg per ounce. Offer nuts and seeds in limited amounts since they are high in fat.
Dairy Products
Dairy products like yogurt, cottage cheese, and hard cheeses can provide ample calcium for birds. But dairy may be difficult for some birds to digest, so feed sparingly.
Shellfish
Canned sardines and oysters with edible soft bones provide highly bioavailable calcium. But only offer shellfish occasionally due to their high phosphorus content.
Bone Meal
Feeding a sprinkling of bone meal over foods 2-3 times a week is an easy way to boost calcium intake for birds. Look for organic, lead-free bone meal powder.
Cuttlebone
Cuttlebone is a great source of calcium and other minerals like phosphorus. It should be available at all times, especially for breeding birds.
Egg & Oyster Shell
Crushed, cooked eggshells and oyster shell are excellent natural calcium supplements. They can be fed daily for added calcium.
Calcium Supplements
In addition to dietary calcium sources, birds may benefit from calcium supplements to ensure their needs are fully met, especially when breeding. Here are some supplement options:
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium carbonate is one of the most common calcium supplements used for birds. It contains 40% elemental calcium. It is inexpensive and available in different forms including powders, liquids, and blocks.
Calcium Gluconate
Calcium gluconate contains 9% elemental calcium. It has good bioavailability and rapid absorption. This is a good choice for birds recovering from egg binding or calcium depletion. It comes as powder or liquid.
Calcium Lactate
Calcium lactate provides 13% elemental calcium. It is also highly bioavailable which aids absorption. This supplement comes as powder or liquid solution.
Calcium Citrate
Calcium citrate provides 21% elemental calcium. It has enhanced absorption, especially for birds with medical conditions affecting calcium metabolism. It is available as powder or tablets.
These supplements can be added to soft foods, sprinkled on pellet diets, or given in water sources. Follow dosage instructions based on the specific product and bird’s needs. It’s best to consult an avian veterinarian for personalized calcium supplement recommendations.
Tips for Feeding Calcium to Birds
– Rotate between several calcium-rich foods daily to add variety.
– Chop vegetables, fruits, beans into bird-sized pieces. Soak dried beans before cooking.
– Cook any raw beans thoroughly before feeding to destroy toxins.
– Offer dairy in small amounts since some birds are lactose intolerant.
– Limit high phosphorus foods like seeds and nuts that impair calcium absorption.
– Add calcium supplement powders or liquids to soft foods for birds that don’t eat enough calcium-rich foods.
– Make crushed eggshell or oyster shell available free choice in a small dish.
Potential Signs of Calcium Deficiency
Birds suffering from inadequate calcium may show the following symptoms:
– Poor growth in young birds
– Soft or malformed bones that fracture easily
– Muscle twitching or tremors
– Reduced egg production or thin, fragile egg shells in breeding hens
– Egg binding or seizures associated with low calcium in blood
– Rickets in fast-growing nestlings characterized by bowed legs and bone deformities
– Osteoporosis and loss of bone density in older birds
– Increased risk of metabolic bone disease
Providing adequate dietary calcium can help prevent these concerning health issues in pet birds. If any deficiency symptoms develop, get prompt veterinary advice.
Conclusion
Calcium is an essential mineral necessary for many bodily functions in birds. Kale, collard and turnip greens, broccoli, figs, shellfish, bone meal, and cuttlebone are excellent natural food sources of calcium for birds. Calcium supplements like calcium carbonate, calcium lactate, and calcium gluconate can also be used. All birds require appropriate amounts of bioavailable calcium tailored to their species, age, and needs for optimal health. Providing a balanced diet with adequate calcium is important for preventing calcium deficiency disorders in pet birds. Consult an avian vet if any signs of calcium deficiency develop.
