To feed a baby bird properly, especially if you are caring for an altricial species (those dependent on parents for food), you should provide a nutritious, easily digestible mixture that mimics what parent birds feed their chicks. A recommended homemade formula includes:
- Mynah bird pellets or dry dog food soaked in hot water
- Baby food (fruit or vegetable-based)
- Cooked egg yolk
- Turkey meat
- Water to achieve a consistency similar to oatmeal or a soup-like paste
This mixture provides adequate nourishment without the need for additional water, except for initial rehydration
. Feeding frequency is critical: baby birds typically need to be fed every 20 to 30 minutes during daylight hours, mimicking the constant feeding by parent birds. They do not need feeding overnight but should be fed before bedtime and immediately upon waking
. Feeding should be done carefully using a small tool like a popsicle stick, straw, syringe, or tweezers, offering small amounts until the bird's crop (a pouch on the side of its neck) appears full but not overfed
. Avoid feeding milk or earthworms, as milk is harmful and worms may carry parasites
. For insect-eating birds, warmed tinned cat food can be a substitute, while seed or fruit-eating birds can be fed warmed fruit-based baby cereal or specialized bird rearing formulas
. As the baby bird grows and begins to feather and open its eyes (becoming a fledgling), introduce natural foods and encourage self-feeding by placing food in its enclosure. Eventually, transition to a larger cage with perches and allow the bird to eat independently
. In summary, feed baby birds a warm, soft, protein-rich mixture frequently during the day, avoid harmful foods, and gradually introduce natural foods as they mature. Always maintain cleanliness in feeding utensils and environment to prevent infections
