Raising a baby pigeon can be challenging, especially when it comes to feeding. Whether you’re caring for an abandoned squab or hand-rearing one at home, knowing what to feed at each stage is crucial.
In the first weeks, feed baby pigeons a warm hand-rearing formula; as they grow, gradually introduce softened seeds, grains, and pigeon pellets.
Baby Pigeon Diet Plan: Age-Wise Feeding and Food Chart
|
Age of Baby Pigeon |
Food Type | Feeding Method |
Frequency |
| 0–5 days | Crop milk substitute (formula) | Syringe or soft tube | Every 2–3 hours |
| 6–10 days | Formula + soft grains mash | Syringe or cup method | Every 3–4 hours |
| 11–20 days | Soaked seeds, peas, egg mash | Spoon or hand feeding | 3 times per day |
| 21+ days | Pigeon seed mix + soft veggies | Self-feeding from a bowl | 2–3 times daily |
What to Feed Baby Pigeons at Every Stage of Growth
1. Feeding Newborn Baby Pigeons (0–5 Days)
In the absence of parent pigeons, newborn squabs rely entirely on a crop milk substitute. The best option is a commercial hand-rearing formula designed specifically for baby birds.
These formulas are rich in proteins, fats, and immune-boosting nutrients essential for early development.
If you’re caring for an abandoned or orphaned baby pigeon, you can feed them with either a commercial hand-rearing formula or a carefully prepared homemade crop milk substitute.
Commercial Formula Options
- Use a high-quality baby bird formula like Röhnfried CropMilk 600g. These are nutritionally balanced and safe for newborn squabs.
If a commercial formula isn’t available, a temporary homemade mix can be used, made from mashed boiled egg yolk, baby rice cereal or soaked oats, and a few drops of cod liver oil.
The texture should be creamy and smooth, closely mimicking natural crop milk.
2. Feeding a 6–10 Day Old Baby Pigeon
As the baby pigeon grows, you can maintain the hand-rearing formula while adding soft, nutrient-rich additions to the mix. This consists of mashed boiled lentils, green peas, or a small quantity of rice cereal mixed into the formula.
The objective is to progressively enhance calorie density while ensuring the food remains easy to digest.
At this stage, the mixture must be thicker while remaining smooth enough for easy swallowing.
3. Feeding an 11–20 Day Old Baby Pigeon
At this point, young pigeons begin to accept and gain from increasingly complicated diets. Seeds that have been softened in water, such as safflower, millet, or sunflower hearts, can be offered.
Apart from seeds, soaking pulses like mashed peas and split chickpeas also make a great plant-based source of protein. For extra nourishment, you can also add crumbled hard-boiled egg whites.
In order to facilitate the bird’s transition to solid foods, every food should be wet and soft.
4. Feeding a 21–30+ Day Old (Weaning) Baby Pigeon
Baby pigeons are almost prepared for a full adult diet by this time. A typical dry pigeon seed mix, which contains grains including wheat, millet, corn, and safflower, can be introduced.
You can also incorporate soft, chopped leafy greens, like as lettuce or spinach, to provide vitamins and fibre. In moderation, little pieces of fruit, such as bananas or apples, can be served as snacks.
During this period, it’s also critical to start taking calcium supplements and mineral grit to aid with bone formation and digestion. As the bird starts to self-regulate its intake, fresh water should always be provided.
Expertly formulated pigeon feeds can help them grow in a healthy way. Hand-rearing recipes, soft feeds, and weaning seed mixes from our top brands will help your baby pigeons get off to a good start.
Expert Vet Recommended Feeding Methods for Baby Pigeons
Method 1: Syringe Feeding (Best for Days 1–10)
- Use a 1 ml or 5 ml syringe
- Insert gently into the side of the beak
- Avoid overfilling the crop
Method 2: Cup Feeding (From Day 10+)
- Pour the semi-solid mash into a small cup
- Hold the baby pigeon gently
- Let them peck and eat on their own
Method 3: Spoon or Hand Feeding
- Scoop softened seeds into a spoon or hand
- Encourage self-pecking by gently tapping the beak
What You Should Not Feed a Baby Pigeon
Avoid these harmful or unsuitable items:
- Cow’s milk causes digestive distress
- Bread lacks nutrients
- Raw rice or lentils may swell inside the crop
- Dry seeds can choke or clog the crop in the early days
- Sugary foods or processed grains
Hygiene and Care Tips During Feeding
- Always sanitise syringes and bowls after each use
- Serve food at body temperature (37–39°C)
- Keep the feeding area quiet and warm
- Monitor the crop size (should be full but not hard)
Conclusion
To feed a newborn pigeon, begin with a crop milk substitute using commercial bird formula or homemade protein-rich mash. Transition to soft grains and mashed seeds from the second week, and introduce adult pigeon food gradually from day 21 onward.
In addition to preventing crop problems and promoting long-term development, proper feeding assures healthy growth. Always follow a clean, structured feeding routine and seek avian veterinary care if unsure.
