Do birds absolutely need grit?

Question

I have zebra finches and the box of grit says put a tablespoon in a separate dish. As far as I know they never touch it. I've also tried mixing it with their food but it's always left when the food is gone. They seem fine and healthy so do they really need grit?

Answer 1

No they don't need it. Some will use it, some won't. I stopped giving it to my breeders and had wonderfully adults and chicks. If you're worried you can offer a light dusting on the floor of the cage or in the feed bowl once a month or so. But chances are they will never eat it.

And actually the person who said finches do not crack seed is wrong. They do crack the seed and eat the kernel. Pigeons (I think) eat the seed whole, but finches and other song birds hull the seed.

Answer 2

All birds need some sort of grit, if they don't then they cannot breakdown there food and could get very sick and die. All grit is is crushed gravel usually granite.

Answer 3

yes, actually finches do require grit, because they can not crack seed like some other birds... (parakeets & cockatiels) so, since they are eating the seeds whole, grit does help with digestion.

Answer 4

Yes all birds need grit or oyster shell to help with digestion. They are probably eating such small amounts of it that you haven't noticed. Just keep putting it out for them.

Answer 5

in order to keep healthy they do not need grit but they do need salt

Answer 6

they dont really need it, it helps. i havent given it to my birds and they are very healthy. i bet they eat a little bit when you mix it in their food

Answer 7

no they donot have to have it try putting a minereal bone in there they''ll like that also if you make scrambled eggs throw a tbs in there theyll love that

Answer 8

Yes, it helps them digest their food.

Answer 9

yes