Sprouting seed is easy. You just need to be aware that they can grow bacteria quickly if not prepared and stored properly.
Most fresh seeds, beans, peas, etc. will sprout, provided they are raw and not treated or coated in any way. (such as vitamin coatings on some bird seeds.
You can purchase a seed sprouting kit (online or at a store) or you can make your own sprouter.
To make a sprouter:
You should use a plastic container with a plastic lid, or a glass jar with a plastic lid. Do not use a metal lid for the container as it will rust.
Poke as many small holes in the lid as possible, using a small nail or an ice pick. You want to create a sort of sieve (like a colander) of the plastic lid.
Place a small amount of seed in the container and rinse well, using the lid with the holes to drain (anywhere from a couple of Tablespoons to a 1/2 cup for a small container) Rinse and drain several times until the dust is removed and the water pours clean.
Now add 2 cups (16oz.) water to cover the seed (or whatever mixture you are sprouting)
You should add 8 - 10 drops of GSE (grape seed extract) to the water. This will keep bacteria from growing. (this is available in some markets, or in a health food store, some pet shops have it as well). OR/ you can use some white or apple cider vinegar if you desire, but use about 1 tsp. vinegar per cup of water.
Cover with the perforated lid.
Let the seeds soak for 12 hours in the water.
After this 12 hour soak, you can begin sprouting the seeds.
RINSE and then DRAIN the seeds thoroughly. You want to be sure you rinse several times to remove the GSE or vinegar. Otherwise the sprouts will taste funny and your bird may not eat them.
Replace the perforated lid.
The perforations in the lid will allow some air to get in there which will help with the sprouting. You do not need to place the container in the light, as these seeds would be sprouting underground where there is no light anyway.
During the next 12 hours, rinse and drain the seed a couple of times (say every 4 hours) to assure cleanliness of the mixture. Shake the container up a little after each rinse just to move the seeds around a bit.
You should see the moist drained seeds sprouting after 12 hours or so. They can be served in this early sprouting stage (which is what I do) or you can let them sprout a bit longer, but be sure to keep rinsing periodically.
They should smell rather sweet, nothing rancid or funny smelling. If they smell funny, toss them. I always smell and sometimes taste them myself.
Your bird should love them!
At this point, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days. Some people store them longer but I do not.
That's all there is to it
