Legumes in the Avian Diet

Abstract

Legumes, by definition, are plants
that have edible seeds enclosed
inside a pod. They include beans,
peas, lentils and peanuts. They contain
a rich source of incomplete protein,
iron , thiamin, riboflavin, and
niacin . Once sprouted, some
legumes have an excellent source of
vitamin C. Combined with rice (especially
brown or wild rice) they provide
a more complete protein source.
Both brown rice and wild rice have
significant amounts of vitamins and
minerals compared to white rice.
Rice can be sprouted with the
legumes, utilizing the same technique.
In the early 1980's, several well
known people began experimenting
with legumes in parrot diets; most
notably John and Pat Stoodley,
Raymond Kray, D.V.M. and Greg
Harrison, D.V.M. Since that time, several
feed distributors have created
and marketed packaged mixes in
eight ounces pet size to fifty pound
breeder mixes. Some of these mixes
have added colored pasta, rice and
other treats to entice birds to eat
them.
Legumes have the advantage over
many other commonly offered parrot
diets due to their availability. Virtually
every country has access to an
assortment of legumes. Because they
are a dried seed product, the movement
of them across international
borders is permitted. Most legumes
are cultivated both inside and outside
of the United States.