A feeding trial was performed to study the
influence of particle size in extruded parrot pellets on
apparent digestibility and excreta consistency and pH. Two
test diets were alternately provided to eight African grey
parrots according to a 2×2 crossover design. Both diets were
similar in nutrient content and ingredient composition but
differed in particle size of the composing particles of
individual pellets. Apparent digestibility of macronutrients
was studied using the total collection method. Next, the
appearance of the excreta was studied by calculation of
weight-surface ratio of individual excrements as an objective
measurement of consistency.
Last, excreta pH was measured directly on fresh excrements
and on homogenized 10% excreta solutions. Neither apparent
digestibility coefficients nor excreta pH values were
significantly different in parrots fed the two diets.
However, excreta consistency was significantly (P
< 0.05) more solid when fed the coarse diet than when
fed with the finely ground diet. The results of this study
suggest that excreta consistency can be improved through
larger particle size, without adverse effects on nutritive
value of the diet.
Source: I.D. Kalmar, G. Werquin and G.P.J Janssens, 2007. JAPAN 91(5-6):210-216.
