How to Hand Feed Birds With a Syringe

Feeding baby or injured birds is a delicate process that requires patience and concentration. It is not difficult to do, but can cause injury to the bird if you're rushed or failing to monitor the temperature of the food. Ask a vet or seasoned bird owner to assist in your first few feedings to ensure proficiency.

Things You'll Need

  • Feeding syringes
  • Bird feed formula
  • Hot water
  • Spoon
  • Latex gloves
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Instructions

    • 1

      Visit your veterinarian before hand feeding baby or injured birds to discuss their dietary needs and any health issues. Purchase feeding syringes from a vet or pet food store at 12cc to 35cc in volume to feed your birds.

    • 2

      Read the directions on the back of your bird feed and check how much water is required to create a mix. Usually the formula for water to feed should be roughly 25 percent powder formula and 70 percent water. Heat up the appropriate amount water and pour over your food mixture and stir into a thick consistency.

    • 3

      Check the temperature of the food with a clean fingertip to ensure it's not too hot. Birds prefer warm food and will probably refuse the feed if it is too cold. But birds will eat hot food and can scald their throats and cause injury. This is one of the most common and serious injuries that occurs when hand-feeding birds.

    • 4

      Put on a pair of unused latex gloves to keep your syringe and the feed as sterile as possible. Baby and injured birds could have a compromised immune system and should not be introduced to foreign bacteria and germs. Keep your work area clean at all times.

    • 5

      Slowly pull the warm feeding mixture into the syringe and push a little out of the tip to ensure the food is flowing properly. The bird will have trouble swallowing and gathering the food in its mouth if the mixture is too thick.

    • 6

      Gently hold the bird's head at a slight backward angle between your index and middle finger. The bird should eagerly open its beak to feed. Ensure the bird does not lunge toward the syringe to prevent injury to its mouth or throat. Slowly squeeze out a few drops of food and allow the bird to eat.

    • 7

      Continue filling the syringe and repeat the step above until the bird is full. Stop feeding when you can still see the food at the base of the bird's throat. Feed very slowly to prevent an esophagus tear, choking, or other injury to the throat.

    • 8

      Carefully wipe off the bird's beak with warm water and a sterile gauze. This will decrease the chance of bacteria growing and discourage the spread of germs or infection. Clean and sterilize your feeding area and throw out your latex gloves.