Spring treats - fresh from nature

05-18-2008, 12:36 PM

& washed very well.

I went for a walk [included feeding the local Pigeons - little cutes] & noticed an abundance of seeded grasses in a vacant lot sited for condo building this year. The lot has been vacant for over 15 years.

I gave the lads the smallest pieces this morning. The rest are in 2 vases - for the next day, or so.

05-18-2008, 03:45 PM

very good I am sure they enjoy

05-19-2008, 08:55 AM

Thought I'd photo document the grasses.
First up in the spring

- size differences.

- the favourite from last year.
Very delicate plant found on the edge of meadows.

- tall & abundant - they like it least.
Tough stem, leaves & small, hard to get at seeds. Probably best for weaving.

- This was the 1st up.
They range from about 6" tall to 12". The seeds are small but plump.
The counter is green with the seed husks. The stem is edible & they love the stem ends.

05-19-2008, 09:32 AM

Thanks for the pictures detailing the grasses! I should walk around my inlaws' farm to see what they have.

05-19-2008, 01:22 PM

You are a good bird mom! Those were just great photos. You all sure have a lovely view!

05-19-2008, 01:28 PM

I have some of that in my flower garden. Think Ill go get it for my budgies.

05-19-2008, 01:36 PM

That's a great idea, thanks for sharing it!

05-22-2008, 12:42 AM

Wheat grass is a favorite for Pogo & Ziggy ... straight from the health food produce dept.

05-22-2008, 05:44 AM

You can also offer whole dandelion plants (with roots and flowers, too), shepherd's purse, purslane, lamb's ear, plantain, poke and ragweed, thistle and don't forget the flowers: marigolds, asters, sunflowers, purple coneflower and bachelor button to name a few. But you need to make sure that they are COMPLETELY free of any chemicals.

05-22-2008, 07:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Beatriz Cazeneuve

You can also offer whole dandelion plants (with roots and flowers, too), shepherd's purse, purslane, lamb's ear, plantain, poke and ragweed, thistle and don't forget the flowers: marigolds, asters, sunflowers, purple coneflower and bachelor button to name a few. But you need to make sure that they are COMPLETELY free of any chemicals.

Thanks! You can bet they are going to have a variety! I figured that if it's OK for the wild birds it must be OK for my guys. Getting it free of chemicals is the trick for sure. Thank goodness our city finally abandoned spraying in the parks over 5 years ago. The so called weeds are very happy.
I have to stop myself from gathering too close to roads/railways - unfortunately there is an abundance of plants there to tempt me. The extra exercise is good for me tho.

Scott - the health store wheat grass is a great idea. Your guys are so sweet looking having their greens.