Feeding Birds Porridge Oats: A Guide for Sustainable Practices

Feeding birds is a rewarding hobby that can provide endless entertainment and joy. While there are many types of birdseed available, have you ever considered using porridge oats? In this guide, we will explore the benefits of feeding porridge oats to birds and discuss best practices for ensuring the health and safety of our feathered friends.

The Benefits of Feeding Porridge Oats to Birds

Porridge oats are a nutritious and readily available food source for several bird species. Unlike uncooked rice, which is less likely to attract other species, porridge oats are accepted by a wide range of bird species. These include pigeons, doves, pheasants, and many more. Additionally, any breakfast cereal can be used as a treat, but it's essential to use only small quantities to prevent overfeeding and potential digestive issues.

Preparing Porridge Oats for Your Bird Feeder

To prepare porridge oats for birds, simply think of it as a simple breakfast for your feathered friends. Start by adding a teaspoon of oats per bird or chick. Carefully mix the oats with warm tap water to create a moist, not soupy, mixture. For extra fun, you can add mealworms, cracked corn, or small kitchen scraps like banana peels or apple peels. Broccoli can also be included, as it is rich in vitamins and minerals beneficial to birds.

Benefits of Feeding Oatmeal to Chickens

Fed directly to chickens, porridge oats or plain oats can be a nutritious addition to their diet. Mixed with other items like scratch grains, unsalted nuts, or cracked corn, oats can provide essential fats that help keep your chickens warm in the winter. However, it's crucial to source organic oats to avoid the risks of glyphosate, a potent poison found in non-organic oats.

The Dangers of Non-Organic Oats for Birds

Non-organic oatmeal contains large amounts of glyphosate, an herbicide often used in modern farming practices. A well-known laboratory found glyphosate levels in Quaker Oats to be about 1000 times higher than the known levels that cause non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The World Health Organization and the State of California have listed glyphosate as a probable carcinogen. Due to its high toxicity and adverse effects, it is dangerous to feed non-organic oats to birds and fish.

Ensuring Bird Health: Proper Food Selection

While porridge oats can be a beneficial addition to a bird’s diet, it's important to provide the right type of food. Feeding birds the wrong food can be fatal. For example, sparrows need insects to survive; simply providing birdseed will not sustain them. The same applies to canaries, who require a diet specifically formulated to meet their dietary needs. Canary food should be the only supplement to their diet, as it provides the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients without the risk of poisoning.

Conclusion

Feeding birds porridge oats can be a safe and sustainable practice, but it's crucial to source organic oats and prepare them properly. Remember to offer this treat in moderation and alongside other suitable birdseed options. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your feathered friends receive the nutrition they need to thrive while enjoying a diverse and balanced diet. Happy bird feeding!