How much to feed

[wagoncab]

My new baby now has a name..."Merlin" but I don't know if he is a he and not a she. Anyway, at 8 weeks Merlin is eating very well. I am having no problem handfeeding him but I am not sure if I am giving him enough. Are you supposed to give them a certain amount or feed them until they don't want anymore? Someone told me their crop can burst if they get too much.
Thanks
Cindy

 

[willist]

We need to know what type Macaw Merlin is. I've hand feed several birds and you can usally tell when the crop feels full, then feed him/her again when the crop feels empty.

 

[greycloud]

Yes Cindy, we need to do what species? A smaller macaw will eat more then a larger species at 8 weeks.

 

[wagoncab]

Hi;
Merlin is a Blue and gold macaw. I can really tell when he is empty but how full is full?
Thanks
Cindy

 

[greycloud]

Hi Cindy, At 8 weeks your guy should be eating every 4 hours. if feeding with a syringe he will probably take about 30-40 ccs. The crop should feel not quite as firm as a water balloon when full. Temp should be at 103-107 degrees when fed. Baby should be kept in a brooder at about 90 degrees.

 

[wagoncab]

Hi;
Thanks for the advice.
I guess I am doing it right. I was more afraid of him not getting enough.
He is starting to pick at a few things but I don't think too much is actually getting in his mouth.
Thanks
Cindy

 

[greycloud]

Please don't guess! LOL! Nutrition is extremely important! Formula should be consistently of thick creamy gravy. Temperature is extremely important. To cold and they can't digest and infection or yeast grows. To hot and you burn the crop. Are you feeding with syringe? Are you weighing baby? It is extremely important to weigh him every morning before he eats. Purchase a scale at any kitchen supply store, they are not expensive. Weigh baby in grams. Baby should be kept in a brooder with heat at 85 degrees.

 

[wildheart]

Please read this article that I found: http://www.parrotforums.com/general-health-care/6626-diseases-baby-juvenile-birds.html

It will point out a lot of problems that you can have, it is actually scary.