Dave J. Rupiper DVM, Dipl. ABVP East Petaluma Animal Hospital 1420-B South McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, CA 94954 Phone: (707) 765-9098 Fax: (707) 765-2984 Web: EPAH.net DOVE DIET Seed Mixes A variety seed mix is preferred for most doves and pigeons. Mix 1/3 cup of each: Parakeet seed Wild bird seed Canary seed Fruit and Vegetables Grated carrots, zuccini, etc., and dark leafy greens such as kale spinach, endive, chickweed cut into very small pieces should be offered daily. Pelleted Foods Purina pigeon chow and commercially prepared pelleted foods designed for parrots are acceptable pelleted diets for pigeons and doves. Since pigeons cannot crack seed they usually cannot break down large pellets either. Pellets must be able to be prehended and swallowed whole by the birds. Most pellets fed to cockatiels fit this size requirement. Mazuri Small Hookbill, Zupreem Cockatiel Blend, Pretty Bird Pellets, Lafeber’s Small Hookbill Pellets, and Kaytee Exact Cockatiel Pellets are all acceptable. Other Items Offer "8 in 1" oyster shell grit for canaries/finches daily. This should be placed in a separate bowl. Spray millet and/or Mega millet (sorghum, milo) may be offered as a treat once weekly. Whole wheat bread can be offered as small fragmented pieces and mixed into the seed mix. Meal worms are accepted by some doves, especially the fruit eating species.