Are any nuts OK for birds?

jeremiah · #1 (**permalink**) 07-01-2009, 04:09 PM

I have some mixed nuts (raw) - hazelnuts, almonds, brazil nuts and walnuts.

I was thinking of crushing them and some sultanas and adding to lard for a home-made fat ball, but it occured to me that almonds, walnuts and brazils aren't native.

Is it OK to use those?

Hedge Witch · #2 (**permalink**) 07-01-2009, 04:11 PM

I wouldn't have any problem using them in a recipe such as you describe. I'm sure it'll be fine.

Astra · #3 (**permalink**) 07-01-2009, 04:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jeremiah

I have some mixed nuts (raw) - hazelnuts, almonds, brazil nuts and walnuts.

I was thinking of crushing them and some sultanas and adding to lard for a home-made fat ball, but it occured to me that almonds, walnuts and brazils aren't native.

And peanuts are??

I don't see why you couldn't use your nuts, as long as they are raw and unsalted.
I think birds already eat walnuts in this country anyway - if the squirrels don't get them all first

Hedge Witch · #4 (**permalink**) 07-01-2009, 06:23 PM

It's a fair enough question, peanuts are tried and tested and thought to be safe. But they are not nuts, they are legumes. It is wise to check before feeding them a new foodstuff if you are unsure.

Many of our favourite foods are poisonous for our pets. For example, foods with large amounts of vitamin C must not be given to cats, and dogs must not be fed onions.

Astra · #5 (**permalink**) 07-01-2009, 06:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hedge Witch

It's a fair enough question, peanuts are tried and tested and thought to be safe. But they are not nuts, they are legumes. It is wise to check before feeding them a new foodstuff if you are unsure.

I know, I was just being facetious, sorry.

Quote:

Many of our favourite foods are poisonous for our pets. For example, foods with large amounts of vitamin C must not be given to cats, and dogs must not be fed onions.

Or chocolate or even grapes, raisins and sultanas.