How to Buy Pigeon Treats

Whether tame or wild, pigeons and doves are seed eaters. Wild pigeons eat grains and fruit. Feed a pigeon or a flock of pigeons a diet of good quality mixed grain and add treats that are similar to foods they would eat in the wild. It is easy to buy nutritious pigeon treats to share with your feathered friends.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Ask a pigeon breeder or other bird expert to recommend good quality foods and treats.

2. Locate a retailer in your area or on line who sells bird food and treats. Many pet stores, garden centers and farm suppliers carry products appropriate for pigeons.

3. Find a nutritious treat or selection of treats. Nuts, vegetables, beans, peas, sprouts, grains, berries, fruits and some flowers are all good for pigeons and other seed eating birds. Ask the retailer for suggestions and find out which products are most popular.

4. Make sure that your pigeon is old enough and healthy enough to eat the treats. Younger birds may need a special diet. A pet store employee, veterinarian, pigeon breeder or other bird expert can advise you.

5. Compare products and prices.

6. Buy a small amount of the treat at first to make sure that it is a hit with your pigeon. You may want to try different treats to add more variety and nutrition to your pigeon's diet.

Tips & Warnings

• You do not have to buy treats that are labeled specifically for pigeons. Treats that are appropriate for other seed eating birds are fine for pigeons and doves.
• Store pigeon treats in sealed bags or containers to keep them fresh, clean and bug free. You may want to refrigerate pigeon treats and food.
• Avoid feeding pigeons rice or bread, even though they like it. Rice and bread are not especially nutritious for pigeons.
• If you open a box of pigeon treats and they look dusty or smell rancid, return them and get a refund. Do not feed pigeons old or spoiled treats.