How Do I Wean a Bird?

Weaning a bird who has been hand fed is a relatively easy process provided that you are willing to put the time in that is required. This is especially true if you want to complete the process correctly and end up with a bird that is both happily food independent and secure with itself. Approximate weaning ages will vary by breed, and it is always good to remember that weaning ages mentioned by your breeder or in a book are averages, and that each bird is an individual that functions on an individual timeline.

Things You'll Need

  • Variety of solid foods
  • Liquid bird formula
  • Syringe
  • Spoon
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Start the weaning process by introducing solid foods to your bird just as they enter the fledging stage, which is when they are developing their wing muscles and learning to propel their bodies. They will imprint any foods introduced to them in this stage, so the more you introduce to them over this period of time, the better chance you have of having a bird who is a varied eater.

    • 2

      Continue to supplement your bird's feedings with liquid bird formula given by syringe or spoon. Gradually decrease the frequency of formula feedings and increase their exposure to solid foods. Make the introduction of solid foods a fun experience. Make it like a game, or introduce foods like corn cobs that have an inviting texture or taste. This takes advantage of a bird's naturally curious nature.

    • 3

      Feed your bird with the liquid formula before presenting it with the solid food selection if your bird is showing any resistance to its new experience. There is a psychological component to weaning, and sometimes a young bird needs to be full or nearly so before it is willing to try other things.

    • 4

      Continue this process over the next few weeks and months until you are no longer supplementing your bird's feeding time with the liquid formula. Gradually decrease the bird's exposure to it and offer only its food dish filled with solids, and the bird will eventually not even miss the liquid formula.