Contrary to established thinking, birds do not "starve to death" when fed two meals daily. In fact, the degree of hunger brought about by separate feedings is only sufficient to developing a hearty appetite. While eating only in the morning and evening appears unnatural, the opposite is actually the case. Most members of the parrot family fill their crops in the early morning to avoid food gathering through the heat of the tropical day. The crop is again filled in the evening for overnight.

NUTRITIONAL ADVANTAGES:

Trying to get a bird to eat a balanced diet is one of our most important concerns. Because birds innately resist change and often have bad eating habits, converting them to a complete diet can be challenging. By using nature's example as to proper feeding times, and allowing a natural hunger to develop, a keen appetite will result. Its moderate hunger sends a message that food is needed for survival. As a result, the bird is nudged to break out of the "picky eater" habit and to eat the balanced diet presented to him.

PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS:

The hungry bird considers the person bringing food a friend and a bond of friendship gradually develops between bird and owner. A hungry bird soon learns to accept hand fed treats between meals. The bird can now become a pampered pet. This means he will get the best of care. A certain satisfaction comes from watching birds eat and most owners will come to consider feeding their birds a joy rather than a duty.

VALUE OF SUPERVISION:

Because the owner is present when the bird is eating, he/she begins to observe what, how much and in what manner the bird eats. A watchful owner will quickly recognize any deviation from normal and will consult a veterinarian before more serious problems develop.

TRAINING REWARDS:

Like other animals, birds respond to rewards. About the only type of prize a bird understands is food, thus, if hunger is combined with food in a training program, the results can be very positive.

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