Gravel and gravel products

[Jojo]

Gravel and Gravel Products
Lisa Keelty
Environmental and Wildlife Technician
AFA Certified Aviculturist

A thing of the past, many people still believe that gravel is a necessity for birds but this is far from the truth. With the exception of Doves and Quail, most pet birds hull the portion of the seed they eat and therefore do not need any type of gravel product to help crush food in the gizzard (stomach). If given, birds that overly consume gravel will have a compacted gizzard which will result in death, a risk not worth taking. Instead oyster shell can be given, it is 100% safe and a good source of calcium.

Sandpaper products such as papers and perch covers are gimmicks at best. They provide no real aid to any toe nail filling and can even scrape off the skin on the bottom of the feed. They should be avoided.