African greys seem to be unique among parrots in their nutritional needs. The two most commonly observed syndromes in this species are calcium imbalance and respiratory disorders. New research sponsored by Harrison’s indicates that African grey parrots must have direct daily access to sunlight or UVB full spectrum lighting in order to obtain the ideal levels of vitamin D3 and normal calcium levels in the blood. Diet alone may not produce the ideal levels.
Although African grey parrots may have a tendency toward atherosclerosis, aggression and feather picking, feeding the High Potency Coarse formulation exclusively, with no addition of seeds, nuts or table foods to the diet, appears to minimize these negative characteristics. Birds that are from parents selectively bred for their calm nature and are parent-reared for several weeks before they are removed to be hand-fed are the least likely to show these characteristics.
Geriatric African greys may need some additional high quality fat in the diet. One good source is organic Brazilian red palm oil, which is available in Sunshine Factor as well as Harrison’s Power Treats.
Recommended Harrison's Formula for African Grey Chicks: Neonate Formula through Day 7, then Juvenile Hand-Feeding Formula for faster weight gain and reduced numbers of feedings daily.
Recommended Harrison's Formula for Adult African Greys: High Potency Coarse.
Some Amazons have a tendency to develop atherosclerosis and become obese as they get older, which is suspected to be related to a metabolic dysfunction involving glucose regulation, the thyroid gland, ovary or liver. In contrast to what might be expected, these birds seem to respond to the higher fat, higher protein formulation of High Potency Coarse, as long as it is carefully measured by the piece to help maintain their proper weight. Additional food items, such as sweet potatoes, celery, bok choy and leafy greens may be added for bulk. Other table foods, nuts or seeds are prohibited.
Amazon parrots are best known for their excellent ability to mimic. Double yellow-headed, yellow-naped and blue-fronted Amazons seem to have the best potential for talking, laughing, coughing or even imitating a baby's cry— perhaps males more than females. Other species may whistle or scream. All Amazons tend to form a bond with a specific individual, which may turn into aggression toward other family members, especially during the breeding season.
Recommended Harrison's Formula for Amazon Chicks: Neonate Formula through Day 7, then Juvenile Hand-Feeding Formula for faster weight gain and reduced numbers of feedings daily.
Recommended Harrison's Formula for Adult Amazons: High Potency Coarse.
