 |
|
|
|
How to wean hand-reared birds?
Weaning hand-reared birds is often a difficult operation and causes much concern among breeders. A bird's weight reaches a maximum just before weaning. During the weaning period, it is quite normal that birds lose up to 10 % of their weight. Once the birds are weaned their weight will gradually increase again. An experienced breeder will know when a bird has reached the age for weaning from its behavior: it will eat less in one feed, and will be less easily forced during feeds...
When they have reached the age for weaning, the birds are given the opportunity of taking a little solid food by themselves. This works best with a piece of apple and NutriBird extruded pellets. When the bird can be seen to be breaking the solid food offered, the weaning process can be initiated. At that time, the bird is usually still receiving 3 to 4 feeds a day. First the feeds throughout the day are stopped. Then the morning feed will be dropped to force the bird to take its food itself during the day. The evening feed will allow it to have a good night. Subsequently the quantities served in the evening will be reduced before this feed is stopped completely. Weaning lasts one to three weeks depending on the individual and the species.
ł
|
|
|
|
