Dear Parrots magazine,
Although quinoa does contain a balanced profile of the essential amino acids, it is also very high in iron. Because of this, it is suggested that you avoid feeding quinoa to bird species that have a predisposition to Iron Storage Disease (ISD). ISD has been noted in Mynahs, Quetzals, Birds of Paradise, and has been reported in some psittacines.
Dear Parrots magazine,
Mention ‘correct diet’ in a parrot magazine and there are bound to be a host of conflicting opinions as to what our birds ought and ought not to be eating. Milk is a controversial food, I know - even for humans in these modern times. Time and again I have read or heard that parrots cannot properly digest milk but, on the other hand, I have read books and articles that state they can. (e.g. Wolfgang de Grahl’s “The Grey Parrot” and the avian vet Geo A. Smith in the May 1997 and March 1998 Parrot Society magazines.)
Dear Parrots magazine,
In response to Kristin Shay, I would just like to note that yoghurt can be given to parrots occasionally, because yoghurt contains live bacteria, which helps to digest lactose and culturing of yoghurt helps to break down the lactose too. I am aware that milk is mentioned in Wolfgang de Grahl’s book, but it was published 20 years ago. In aviculture terms even five years ago is quite a while back, as what was considered acceptable then, might not be acceptable now.
Dear Parrots magazine,
Referring to the article ‘Colour-Sensitive’ in the February 2010 edition of the magazine. I could not believe it when I opened my copy and read this. Only a couple of days earlier, as it was one of the many cold mornings this winter, I need some extra layers! Going through my wardrobe I found a nice warm, thick hand-made Aran sweater, which my friend had made for me some time ago, but I had not worn. I put it on, lovely, just the job for a snowy day.
Dear Parrots magazine,
First I wanted to say that I love the magazine and keep up the good work. However, I am writing to comment on the article about the Caribbean Amazon Parrots. I must say that I was very disappointed. When I opened the issue I was excited to read an in depth article. What I read was an article that lacked depth and was written by a visitor who did not bother to do any real research.
Dear Parrots magazine,
In her article in the April issue, Pam Fryer asked for up-to-date information about the Caribbean Amazons. Having recently returned from St Lucia, I can give some information on the magnificent endemic parrot (Amazona versicolor).
Parrots magazine is published by
Imax Visual Ltd, West Building,
Elm Grove Lane, Steyning BN44 3SA
Telephone +44 (0)1273 464777
© Parrots magazine 2023