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Pomegranates

Pomegranates, like the pumpkins, are another seasonal item that can be a great foraging treat.

Pomegranates are a beautiful fruit, but a little complex. Covered by a leathery exterior, inside are clusters of ruby red gems that each contain a little white seed. These are contained in a spongy pith material that surrounds the groups like a membrane. Pomegranates contain vitamin C, B5, potassium, and the hidden little seeds contain the fiber and oils.

Word of caution: This is a MESSY food item, and the juice will stain clothes, fabrics, hard surfaces, etc.

For large birds, the pomegranate can be washed and cut in half or into smaller chunks. They can be fed in a bowl or on a skewer and the bird will enjoy picking out the individual seeds.

If you want to remove the seeds, the recommended way to disassemble this fruit is to cut it lengthwise, top to bottom, in half. Have a bowl of cold water in the sink, and work out the seeds under water to keep the juice from squirting out, plus, the seeds will sink and separate from the white pith that will float to the top. Strain and rinse the seeds and they are ready to eat.

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Fireplace Safety

As the weather beings to cool off and we’ve adjusted the clocks back for daylight savings time, many people will start using heaters, fireplaces, and other means to keep warm and snug through winter.

Open fireplaces and electric fireplaces can be dangerous to birds in the home. For their safety as well as your own, it is important to invest in a carbon monoxide detector and make sure smoke detectors are in proper working order. The smoke from fires can be fatal as well, and it is best to have birds housed in a separate area of the home.

Candle decorations are also popular this time of year and can pose just as much of a health risk. Although some leave minimal smoke, the scents and oils can also be irritating to a bird’s respiratory system.

If using a space heater, always place it where a bird can not accidentally fly or climb on it. Some electric space heaters may also be coated with the non-stick PTFE that can release fumes when overheated. As a safer alternative, many bird owners suggest using the oil filled heaters.

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Thanksgiving Leftovers Guide

Thanksgiving is just on the horizon. With potlucks and food aplenty, there are bound to be leftovers. Sometimes there are just too many leftovers; or sometimes you can only be creative with turkey so many days in a row. Here is a quick do and don’t guide for leftovers you just can’t finish off!

Turkey- Yes. Turkey can be a good source of protein- skin removed is best. Many birds enjoy eating the marrow from the bones as well.

Cranberry Sauce- Okay. Limit to a very small amount as it is very high in sugar. If you can offer fresh cranberries, that is best.
Stuffing- Avoid. Stuffing can be overly seasoned and contain too much salt.

Ham- Avoid. Ham is a cured meat and can be very salty. A bite at most is all your feathered friend would need.

Corn- Yes. Many birds love corn on or off of the cob.

Peas- Yes. Peas are a fun food for birds and also contain fiber and vitamins.

Pumpkin Pie- Yes, in small amounts. A sweet treat is okay here and there, and this will be a fun unique flavor. A few bits of crust is okay as well.

Other Pies- Depends. Fruit pies are okay as long as they do not contain rhubarb (Sometimes rhubarb is mixed with strawberry or apple pies.) Do not feed any pies containing chocolate.

 

Mashed Potatoes- Yes, but hold the gravy.

Sweet Potatoes- Yes, Cooked. They are very nutritious. If they are prepared with butter and sugars or marshmallows, try to scoop into the plain inside.

Macaroni & Cheese- Okay. Limit to a small portion. Birds cannot digest dairy products well, so more macaroni and light on the cheese.

Macaroni or Potato Salad- Avoid. These side dishes are generally mayonnaise-based. Not only will they spoil quickly unrefrigerated, mayonnaise and other egg-based products can sour in the crop.

Green Bean Casserole- Avoid. While plain green beans are just fine, many casseroles are made with cream of mushroom soup. Mushrooms should not be fed to parrots.

Cooked Greens- Depends. Plain, or lightly seasoned is best. Most greens are cooked with onion, garlic, and/or bacon and fatty meats making them best to avoid.

Rolls/Bread- Yes, without butter. The healthier the bread the better.

Many of these foods will contain butter, sugar, salt, fat, etc., but that does not mean they are completely lacking nutritionally. Just like any foods for humans or parrots, the key is moderation. Keep in mind, a serving for a person can be equivalent to just a teaspoon or tablespoon to a bird!

As with any leftovers, make sure they have not been sitting out for many hours, and that they have been sealed properly and have not spoiled. If you wouldn’t eat it, your bird shouldn’t either.

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Playtime with Pumpkins

Pumpkins are abound this time of year, and it is a great chance to expose your parrot to something new! Whether you are making a pie, carving jack-o-lanterns, or buying for fun, let your parrot play too. Pumpkins are actually a type of squash, and are a great source of vitamin A (great for eclectus and amazons), beta-carotene, and fiber.

To use a whole pumpkin, wash it thoroughly first, and then cut off the top or in half. For curious birds, leave it whole but carve out a few shapes to peak your bird’s curiosity. Use a toy skewer to hang it, or just place in the cage and let them have fun. This is healthy foraging object for large or destructive birds; some will be satisfied ripping it apart and others will love trying to get the pumpkin seeds hidden inside.

If you have leftover pumpkin scraps from cooking or jack-o-lanterns, you can feed it raw, boiled, steamed, or baked- and don’t forget to save the seeds as well. Pumpkin cooking and preparing times will vary by method and the size of the pumpkin or chunk sizes.

The pumpkin seeds can be eaten raw from the pumpkin, or you can prepare and dry them to save for later. Preheat the oven to 275 F. Remove the seeds from the pumpkin, place them into a strainer and wash several times while mixing to remove any slimy bits. Spread them out onto a layer of paper towels to dry them. Cover a cookie sheet with foil and spread the seeds out. Place them in the oven for about 30 minutes, using a spatula to flip/stir the seeds about halfway through cooking. Store in a zip-lock or airtight container.

Remember to not use cut pumpkins that have been sitting out, these can become moldy. Also, do not use pumpkins that have had candles inside, the smoke residue is harmful.