Pigeons are everywhere, from the rooftops of bustling cities to quiet countryside fields. While these birds have adapted well to human environments, many people don’t know what constitutes a healthy pigeon diet. This guide unpacks everything you need to know about feeding pigeons, whether wild, pet, or racing breeds.
From what not to feed pigeons, to making homemade pigeon food, and even exploring the role of feeding pigeons in astrology, we’ve got it all covered.
What Not to Feed Pigeons: Foods That Can Harm or Kill
Many people feed pigeons leftover bread, cookies, or snacks, but this can be harmful.
Here’s what you should never feed pigeons:
- Avocados – Contain persin, which is toxic to birds
- Chocolate – Has theobromine, which is harmful to pigeons
- Apple seeds – Contain small amounts of cyanide
- Salted snacks – High sodium content causes dehydration
- Alcohol or caffeine – Can cause seizures or death
- Milk – Pigeons are lactose-intolerant
- Rotten or moldy food – May lead to fungal infections
Editor’s tip: A pigeon might eat almost anything when starving, but that doesn’t mean it should. Always think twice before offering food.
What to Feed Pigeons at Home: Creating a Balanced Diet
Raising pigeons at home? Feeding them properly is crucial for their health, plumage, and breeding.
Here’s a simple daily guide:
| Category | Examples |
| Grains & Seeds | Millet, barley, corn, wheat, safflower |
| Greens | Spinach, kale, dandelion leaves |
| Fruits | Berries, chopped apple (no seeds) |
| Protein Sources | Mung beans, maple peas, crushed peanuts |
| Grit & Minerals | Oyster shells, grit blends |
| Water | Fresh and clean, changed daily |
Anecdote: A pigeon keeper in Lahore shared that feeding soaked mung beans helped his birds grow shinier feathers during molting season. A simple change huge difference.
Pigeon Food Name List: Know What to Look For
Below is a handy reference to help you identify commonly used pigeon food names, especially helpful for buying ready-made mixes or making your own:
- Millet
- Barley
- Corn (cracked)
- Sorghum (Dari)
- Wheat
- Hemp Seeds
- Sunflower Seeds
- Maple Peas
- White Dari
- Linseed
- Mung Beans
- Paddy Rice
- Grit & Mineral Mixes
Look for terms like “pigeon mix” or “racing pigeon feed” in pet stores.
Can Pigeons Eat Rice? Busting the Myth
Yes, pigeons can eat rice both raw and cooked.
Despite urban legends that rice causes birds to “explode,” this is completely false. Rice is:
- Rich in carbohydrates
- Safe in moderate amounts
- Great as a supplement to other grains
However, rice lacks essential proteins and fats, so it should never be the only food in their diet.
Pigeon Food Homemade: Make It Yourself on a Budget
Making pigeon food at home can be fun, affordable, and healthier for your birds.
Step-by-Step DIY Mix:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat
- 1 cup mung beans
- 1 cup millet
- ½ cup cracked corn
- ½ cup safflower seeds
- Optional: sunflower kernels, linseed, or maple peas
Instructions:
- Rinse all ingredients thoroughly
- Air-dry or oven-dry at a low temperature
- Store in an airtight container
- Mix fresh grit into the serving bowl weekly
DIY pigeon seed mix ideas
Tip: Soaking mung beans overnight makes them easier to digest.
What Grains Do Pigeons Eat? A Closer Look
Grains form the base of a good pigeon diet. Here are grains pigeons love and why:
- Wheat – Energy-rich, easily digestible
- Barley – Supports digestive health
- Cracked Corn – High energy, especially in cold weather
- Millet – Small and easy for all birds to eat
- Maple Peas – High in protein for breeding birds
- Sorghum (Red or White Dari) – Excellent filler
- Hemp – Fatty acid boost for shiny feathers
Fun Fact: In colder climates, pigeons prefer fattier grains like sunflower seeds and safflower for added body warmth.
Best Food for Pigeons: Top Products You Can Trust
If mixing feed isn’t your style, these commercial pigeon foods are excellent choices:
Top Recommendations:
- Versele-Laga Premium Mix – Ideal for show or racing pigeons
- Bamford’s Super Moulting Mix – Supports feather growth
- Champion Multi-Mix – Balanced daily diet + grit
- Willsbridge Racing Mix – High-performance energy feed
Buy Champion Multi-Mix
Explore Versele-Laga options
These mixes save time and guarantee complete nutrition.
Feeding Pigeons in Astrology: Spiritual & Cultural Beliefs
In many traditions, feeding pigeons isn’t just practical, it’s spiritual.
Beliefs Around the World:
- Hinduism: Feeding pigeons on Saturdays is said to reduce bad karma from Shani (Saturn).
- Islam: Offering grains to birds is a form of sadaqah (charity).
- Vastu Shastra: Encourages feeding birds to bring peace and harmony at home.
- Feng Shui: Pigeons symbolize loyalty and peace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best diet for pigeons?
A balanced diet of grains (such as wheat, millet, and corn), seeds, greens, protein sources (like mung beans or peas), and mineral-rich grit ensures optimal pigeon health.
What should you not feed pigeons?
Avoid feeding pigeons chocolate, avocado, salty foods, caffeine, alcohol, apple seeds, and anything moldy or processed.
Why don’t we eat pigeons anymore?
With urbanization and health concerns, pigeons are no longer widely consumed due to perceived disease risk and shifting dietary preferences.
Do pigeons eat veg or non-veg?
Pigeons are primarily herbivores and thrive on vegetarian diets, though they may occasionally ingest insects or tiny invertebrates.
What vegetables can you feed pigeons?
Safe vegetables for pigeons include spinach, kale, lettuce, peas, cabbage, and grated carrots in small amounts.
Do pigeons eat mice?
No, pigeons do not eat mice; they are granivores and lack the predatory instincts or digestive systems to consume mammals.
Can pigeons eat oatmeal?
Yes, pigeons can eat plain, uncooked, or soaked oatmeal as a healthy carbohydrate-rich supplement.
Can you feed pigeons bread?
Bread is not toxic, but it lacks nutrients and should only be offered sparingly, never as a main food source.
Final Thoughts: Why the Right Pigeon Diet Matters
Whether you’re a first-time pigeon keeper or just love seeing them flutter around your balcony, knowing what and how to feed them responsibly is crucial.
Let’s recap:
Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate and salt
Use a variety of grains, greens, and protein
Make homemade food or choose quality commercial mixes
Consider astrological or cultural significance
Keep fresh water and grit available at all times
Feeding pigeons isn’t just about survival; it’s about enriching their lives.