Why Do Caged Birds Need Millet?
What Is Millet - And Why Do Birds Need It?
Millet is a small, round grain that grows on grass-like plants in the Poaceae family. It’s naturally rich in carbohydrates and contains small amounts of protein, B vitamins and essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.
For caged birds, especially small species like budgerigars (budgies), canaries, and finches, millet is a great source of quick-release energy and an enjoyable, natural food that mimics what they might forage for in the wild. Birds love millet not only for its taste but for the experience of picking it apart, nibbling at the grains, and keeping their beaks active and engaged.
Key benefits of millet for caged birds:
- Natural energy source: Millet is high in easily digestible carbohydrates - ideal for active little birds.
- Mental stimulation: Picking seeds off a millet spray gives your bird a natural feeding challenge.
- Beak and jaw exercise: Eating millet helps birds exercise their beaks and strengthen their jaw muscles.
- Encourages foraging behaviour: Especially important for birds who may become bored in cages.
- Gentle on digestion: It’s light on the stomach and ideal during times of stress, weaning, or illness.
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Should I Leave Millet in My Bird’s Cage?
This is a great question - and the answer depends on how millet fits into your bird’s overall diet. Millet is best fed as a complement, not a complete feed. It’s relatively low in fat and protein compared to a balanced seed mix or pellet diet, so it shouldn’t be the only food on offer.
However, millet can safely be left in the cage in moderation, especially when offered as a spray. Most bird owners like to hang a millet spray from the cage bars, giving their pet something to peck at throughout the day. This is particularly
helpful during times when your bird might be stressed, moulting, or in need of encouragement to eat.Tips for feeding millet in the cage:
- Use it sparingly: One spray at a time is usually enough – you can refresh it every few days.
- Monitor intake: Make sure your bird is still eating its main seed mix or pellets and not just filling up on millet.
- Hang it naturally: Dangle sprays from the bars or perch to mimic how birds might forage in the wild.
What Is the Best Millet for Budgies?
Budgies (or budgerigars) adore millet. In fact, millet is often the first food a young budgie learns to eat independently.
When choosing the best millet for your budgie, aim for fresh, clean, and naturally grown sprays. Budgies particularly love white or yellow spray millet, which tends to be softer and easier to nibble.
Here’s a guide to what to look for:
- Spray millet: Offers enrichment and stimulation. Best hung in the cage.
- White millet: Mild flavour, easy to digest – suitable for daily seed mixes.
- Red millet: Slightly tougher grain, good for variety and beak exercise.
- White millet: Higher in protein, can be useful in breeding or moulting periods (but should be fed in moderation).
Always check that the millet is:
- Free from dust and mould
- Grown to a high standard
- Stored in a cool, dry place
Many avian experts agree that a balanced seed mix with some millet included – plus a separate millet spray now and then – is the best approach for budgies.
Types of Millet for Birds
White Millet
A favourite among budgies and finches. Small, pale seeds that are easy to digest.
Why Choose Haith’s Millet?
Incorporate millet for a balanced diet
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Millet Sprays - First Grade
Vendor:HAITH'S to HOMERegular price From £13.59 GBPRegular priceUnit price per£13.59 GBPSale price From £13.59 GBP -
Millet Sprays - Second Grade
Vendor:Haith's Bird FoodRegular price From £6.80 GBPRegular priceUnit price per£6.80 GBPSale price From £6.80 GBP -
Mixed Millets
Vendor:HAITH'S to HOMERegular price From £5.19 GBPRegular priceUnit price per£5.19 GBPSale price From £5.19 GBP -
Panicum Millet
Vendor:HAITH'S to HOMERegular price From £5.10 GBPRegular priceUnit price per£5.10 GBPSale price From £5.10 GBP
