There are several methods used to convert a bird from a seed to a formulated pellet diet, depending somewhat on the species and personality of the individual bird. Some birds will convert easily - within a week. For others though, it may take several months. The length of time it takes for the conversion is not as important as the change itself.
Since your bird may be reluctant to eat the new diet, it is important that he does not lose too much weight too fast.
Tips-
- Experiment with placement of the pellets. Some birds prefer eating from the highest bowl first, and others prefer eating at the bottom of the cage.
- If your bird likes certain fruits or vegetables (try cooked sweet potato or high moisture fruits), you can try sprinkling some seed on that food. Then try sprinkling pellets. Remember to remove the food after 4-6 hours so it does not spoil.
- Once the bird is eating some pellets, offer the new pelleted food in the morning when the bird is the most hungry.
- Grind the pellets in a blender, add some water, and mix some millet (or other favourite food) into this mash. The bird will have to go through the mash to get his favoured food. This works well with smaller species such as budgies, lovebirds and cockatiels. Again, remove the mash after several hours to prevent spoiling.
- Provide pellets when the bird is outside of the cage. He may start relating the pellets to having fun!
- Mix pellets with shredded newspaper or very small toys, like wooden buttons. This may help mimic normal foraging behaviour.
- Be consistent and persistent.
- Be sure to change the pellets in the dish daily, so they are always fresh.
Note: Once a bird begins eating pellets, the droppings will usually change from green to a brownish colour. They may also become a little looser due to the extra water the bird drinks while eating a pelleted diet.