what to feed pigeons

Pigeons and doves eat a variety of grains, seeds, greens, berries, fruits, and will occasionally eat insects, snails, and earthworms. Seeds can be part of a pigeon’s diet but should not comprise the entire diet. There are pigeon diets available that contain some seed plus grains. Some are also enriched with brewers yeast plus vitamins and minerals. Different diet formulations exist for performance birds, resting birds, and breeding birds. Pellets should ideally represent approximately 50% of a pigeons diet along with small amounts of seed and fresh produce. Finely chopped vegetables and greens, plus smaller amounts of fruit, should be offered as part of a pigeon’s or dove’s daily diet. Pale vegetables, with a high water composition (i.e., iceberg or head lettuce, celery) offer very little nutritional value and should not be offered. Avocado is reported to be potentially toxic to birds and should not be offered. To aid in the breakdown of food, pigeons and doves may be offered a small amount of crushed eggshell or digestible oyster shell grit which can also serve as a source of calcium. If you are feeding wild pigeons, it is best to avoid feeding them bread, pasta, meat, and fish, as these foods are not part of their natural diet and can be harmful to their health. Instead, you can feed them seeds, nuts, and vegetables.