For tube feeding your pigeon, you will need to have the necessary supplies on hand. These include a syringe, tubing, and formula. You will also need a bowl and spoon for mixing the formula as well as warm tap water.
Syringe and Tubing
You will need a plastic feeding syringe for tube feeding. Feeding syringes have wide openings to allow formula to pass through. You may use a rigid or flexible tube with a syringe. Flexible rubber tubes are recommended for beginners since they will not cause damage if the pigeon moves or struggles. A tiny baby, less than a week old, will be fed 1 to 2 cc's at a time. For an older baby, you will need a slightly larger syringe. With adults, you can use a large, wide syringe. Syringes and catheter tubing are available at pet stores and many drug stores.
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Formula
There are several formulas on the market for hand feeding birds.
Recommended formulas include:
These formulas are available at pet stores or from a veterinarian. In an emergency, you can use Gerber baby cereal or chicken starter.
