Kruza
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Nutrition of Birds in the Order Psittaciformes: A Review
Elizabeth A. Koutsos, Kevin D. Matson, and Kirk C. Klasing
Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery 15(4), 2001: pp 257–275
Abstract: Over 350 species of birds make up the order Psittaciformes; many of these are main-
tained in captive environments. Malnutrition is commonly diagnosed in captive psittacine birds;
therefore, providing nutritionally adequate diets must be a primary concern. This review integrates
quantitative information on the dietary habits and nutritional requirements of psittacine birds to
facilitate the formulation and evaluation of diets for birds in captivity. Initially, characterization of
the diet and feeding strategy of a particular species in the wild can provide insight into appropriate
diet choices in captivity. Knowledge of the gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology can be used to
elucidate the capacity of that species to utilize various feedstuffs. For example, the presence of a
highly muscularized gizzard may allow a bird to utilize a seed-based diet, whereas a species pos-
sessing a small gizzard may be unable to process such a diet. Finally, nutrient requirements deter-
mined in a particular species or a related species (eg, similar digestive physiology and feeding
strategy) may be applied to create a nutritionally adequate diet. Understanding the factors involved
in selecting appropriate diets enables aviculturists, veterinarians, and nutritionists to maintain and
propagate these birds with increased success.
Elizabeth A. Koutsos, Kevin D. Matson, and Kirk C. Klasing
Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery 15(4), 2001: pp 257–275
Abstract: Over 350 species of birds make up the order Psittaciformes; many of these are main-
tained in captive environments. Malnutrition is commonly diagnosed in captive psittacine birds;
therefore, providing nutritionally adequate diets must be a primary concern. This review integrates
quantitative information on the dietary habits and nutritional requirements of psittacine birds to
facilitate the formulation and evaluation of diets for birds in captivity. Initially, characterization of
the diet and feeding strategy of a particular species in the wild can provide insight into appropriate
diet choices in captivity. Knowledge of the gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology can be used to
elucidate the capacity of that species to utilize various feedstuffs. For example, the presence of a
highly muscularized gizzard may allow a bird to utilize a seed-based diet, whereas a species pos-
sessing a small gizzard may be unable to process such a diet. Finally, nutrient requirements deter-
mined in a particular species or a related species (eg, similar digestive physiology and feeding
strategy) may be applied to create a nutritionally adequate diet. Understanding the factors involved
in selecting appropriate diets enables aviculturists, veterinarians, and nutritionists to maintain and
propagate these birds with increased success.
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