Do Birds Eat Hawthorn Berries?

Hawthorn berries are a fascinating topic in the world of avian nutrition. These small, red, and slightly tart fruits often hang on hawthorn trees from late fall to winter and can even persist until early spring. This article delves into the topic of whether birds eat hawthorn berries, exploring the preferences of various bird species, including breeding parrots and cedar waxwings, and provides insights based on bird behavior studies and professional opinions.

Observations from Personal Experience with Breeding Parrots

Initially, I experimented with hawthorn berries by feeding them to a variety of parrots, including eclectus parrots, macaws, and Asian and Indonesian parrots, as well as cockatoos. Eclectus parrots, in particular, seemed to relish these berries. The experience was not only enlightening but also quite enjoyable. After a period of cold temperatures, when the berries were warm from the sun and overripe, they developed a unique cakey flavor and texture that was surprisingly delightful.

Linked to the warmer berries is an interesting observation about the texture and eating behavior of birds. A big cluster of berries became a fun object for the birds to destroy and chew on, which allowed for more natural and engaging feeding activities in the enclosure.

Natural Feeding Preferences of Cedar Waxwings

The natural feeding habits of cedar waxwings in my area also shed light on the consumption of hawthorn berries. Cedar waxwings, known for their love of fruits, are part of the bird population that readily consumes hawthorn berries. Many studies have shown that captive birds often do not eat hawthorn berries, and instead, these berries fall prey to groups of cedar waxwings. The birds gorge themselves on the berries until the entire plant is stripped of its fruit.

It is important to note that the availability of hawthorn berries can vary each year. Some years, the waxwings might not travel near the hawthorn bushes, leading to leftover berries still hanging on the plants. This fluctuation is influenced by the waxwings' migratory patterns and the availability of other food sources in different seasons.

Online Myths and Poisons

Despite concerns and online rumors suggesting that hawthorn berries might be poisonous, it is essential to distinguish between fact and fiction. According to poison control, hawthorn berries are not harmful. In fact, many online sources provide contradictory information, which can lead to confusion. However, based on the research and recommendations from professional sources, it is safe to conclude that hawthorn berries are not toxic to birds.

Myth Verification: Are Pyracantha Berries Poisonous?

Another related concern is the toxicity of Pyracantha berries, another type of hawthorn-like fruit. Despite some online claims about the dangers of these berries, similar to hawthorn berries, they are not considered poisonous to birds. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), there is no evidence to suggest that Pyracantha berries are dangerous for birds to consume. This provides further evidence that many types of berries are safe for avian consumption.

To summarize, hawthorn berries are an excellent source of nutrition for a variety of bird species, from breeding parrots to cedar waxwings. These berries not only provide a natural and enjoyable food source but also contribute to the overall health and well-being of birds. The persistent myths about their toxicity are mostly unfounded, and responsible bird owners can safely include hawthorn berries in their birds' diets.

Conclusion

Hawthorn berries are a nutritious and delightful treat for birds, with a variety of species benefiting from them. Whether consumed by breeding parrots or cedar waxwings, these berries offer a satisfying and natural food source. As always, providing a balanced and varied diet is crucial for maintaining the health of your feathered companions.