Twitter Instagram
    • Email Newsletters
    • About Us
    • Advertise
    • Contact Us
    Twitter LinkedIn
    CPD Log-In
    OvertheCounter
    • News
      • Dairy / Beef
      • Sheep
      • Pigs / Poultry
      • Equine
      • Companion
      • Retail
      • Training
    • Magazines
      1. July 2022
      2. May 2022
      3. March 2022
      4. Kitten & Puppy Supplement 2022
      5. January 2022
      Featured

      Over the Counter – July 2022

      By Simon KingJuly 5, 2022
      Recent

      Over the Counter – July 2022

      July 5, 2022

      Over the Counter – May 2022

      May 11, 2022

      Over the Counter – March 2022

      March 8, 2022
    • CPD Training
      • AMTRA CPD Modules
        • Frontline Academy
        • Companion Animal CPD Modules
        • Equine CPD modules
        • Livestock CPD Modules
        • Poultry CPD Modules
        • Are you a Gold Standard SQP?
      • VETPOL CPD Modules
        • Companion Animal CPD Modules
        • Livestock CPD Modules
      • Earning CPD points with overthecounter.news
      • CPD Log-In
    • National SQP Awards
    OvertheCounter
    News

    Can all wild birds eat the same foods?

    Simon KingBy Simon KingDecember 21, 2020No Comments2 Mins Read
    LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Email

    The range of wild birds that come flocking to UK gardens is enormous and despite what some may think, the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) highlights, that they do not all eat the same foods.

    Each bird has different nutritional requirements and feeding styles based on elements such as: size, weather, season, habitats, and life-stage.

    Nicole Paley, deputy chief executive of the PFMA, said: “Birds are also very selective feeders; they know what they want and will throw other seeds out of the way in order to find the food they desire. The type of food available is one of the main factors in how a bird chooses its habitat.”

    How does a bird’s life-stage and the seasons affect their nutritional requirements?
    At different times of the year, wild birds will go through a multitude of conditions which can be a strain on their energy.

    Ms Paley said: “With Spring, there comes the beginning of the breeding and nesting season. Building nests, incubating eggs and feeding young chicks can all take their toll. During this period, it is important to put out foods that are high in fats and carbohydrates.

    “As the weather begins to warm up in the Summer, there seems to be more natural food readily available to our wild birds. However, many insects such as worms begin to bury deeper into the ground, making it hard for many birds to find them. Foods that are high in proteins are best fed throughout the summer.”

    In Autumn, Ms Paley said the birds’ have to face their next challenge – the Autumn Moult.

    “This is the process of shedding and growing new feathers,” she said. “Foods that are high in energy are best fed during this time.

    “Once the birds have got through the moult, the ground then begins to freeze over as the Winter sets in. A shortage of natural food including, insects and berries makes it difficult for our wild birds to get the nutritional requirements they need to survive. They require fat for energy and insulation against the cold, and they also need protein to keep their muscles in good working order.”

    Share. LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Email
    Previous ArticleThe challenging pet-care sector
    Next Article PetPlace heralds support it received during 2020

    Read Similar Stories

    PATS exhibitor heralds show ‘a fantastic platform for business’

    RSPCA celebrates ‘huge news’ as farmers in Wales could be paid for higher welfare

    LEAF Open Farm Sunday strengthens public trust in farming

    Most Read

    Jollyes to open new Stockton-on-Tees store on Saturday

    August 2, 2022

    Be alert to haemonchus risk – and utilise free testing where appropriate

    August 1, 2022

    Keeping safe around dogs this summer

    July 29, 2022

    Any animal medicine advertising or promotion should conform to the ‘code of practice’ of the National Office of Animal Health (NOAH).
    For full details contact the publisher or www.noah.co.uk.

    Lewis Business Media Ltd endeavours to make articles and statements as accurate as possible.

    © 2022 Lewis Business Media. All Rights Reserved.
    Lewis Business Media, Suite A, Arun House, Office Village, River Way, Uckfield, TN22 1SL

    Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Terms & Conditions

    The OTC "tick" mechanism is the copyright of Lewis Business Media Ltd ©2022

    • Pet Business World
    • Pest
    • Pig World
    • Poultry News

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
    Cookie SettingsAccept All
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    SAVE & ACCEPT
    Powered by CookieYes Logo