Bird Food

I always seem to have problem keeping my Jambuls and mata Puteh in good form. Other than human error on my part, I strongly suspect that the bird food is partly to blame. The last straw is opening a moldy packet of food. In fact it wasn't the first instance. I have thrown out a similarly degraded packet if food before.

Now, identifying a grossly deteriorated food is easy. But how about those that are already deteriorated but not to an advance level as to be able to physically see it or even smell it. Some packets of food are more aromatic than others. So, those that don't smell as good, are they any more good for the birds. Jambuls don't eat a lot, so will it be worse after exposure to air when placed in the cup. To change the food daily or give enough to consume for the day is both risky and too much work.

Could it be this uncertainty in food quality that is causing some birds to drop in form, molt before it's time, fall sick etc. I think I can't rely on the food available locally for Jambuls and Putehs. Will be making my own fortified food base on chicken feed from now on for both these species. Until I can find a commercially viable alternative, my own concoction should be a safer bet.


- Time you enjoy wasting wasn't wasted -

Apartments?

The advantage of getting a roll of wire mesh is the endless experimentation & possibilities of DIY cages. I did one 4 unit terrace type horizontally & thought I try a vertical one. Advantage of vertical type is the small foot print which is space saving, birds don't see each other & easier to carry around. Now, what shall I place in it? Probably leave it empty 1st unless I get the urge to keep 4 new Mata Putehs ;-)



- Time you enjoy wasting wasn't wasted -

Sooty-headed Bulbul - episode 2

Took home 2 Sooty-headed Bulbul today. They are not listed in the Wildlife Act & therefore do not need a license to keep.

They appear to be not too wild for birds just taken out from a flock. At least there is a male, as I heard one sang it's mid-tone at the back of my car. Unless of course, both sexes sing mid-tones for this specie ;-)

















- Time you enjoy wasting wasn't wasted -

Female Shama - arrival

Collected this little princess today. 2nd molt female living in the luxury of a big aviary. Very easy to take out from the aviary. Owner placed a bathing cage inside and throw a couple of crickets in it as bait. She goes in like she has been doing it for years now. Looks promising - I just wanted a female Shama that is used to having people around.

Will take out Apollo X tomorrow and put this female in the aviary.



- Time you enjoy wasting wasn't wasted -