Should I feed and what to feed?

Is the bird puffed up, motionless or lethargic? Are they slowly walking out of the way rather than quickly flying? This may be indications that a bird is sick or starving. It may seem counterintuitive but feeding a severely emaciated bird some solid foods could kill them. It is best to get them to someone with experience rather than risk injury.

Is the bird acting normal? Flying, walking quickly, appears alert and flighty? Feeding birds at this stage is okay if you plan on keeping them for more than 24 hours. If your found pigeon is going to be coming to me shortly after capture, it is best to just wait until they arrive at Rockbird (although feeding them won't hurt as long as it is proper food.

Pigeon Safe Foods

Commercial Pigeon Feed

A high quality pigeon food is your best option but it is understandable that not many people have easy access to this. This is the only acceptable option if you plan on keeping the bird.

Seeds

Trying to catch the bird or just need to feed them temporarily? Here are some pigeon favorites that you might have at your house: white millet, safflower seed, shelled whole or chipped peanuts (unsalted), sunflower hearts or chips (unsalted), cracked corn, popcorn kernels, quinoa, lentils and various types of peas. Pigeons can be fussy so a mix might appeal to them better. This can include a wild bird seed mix or parakeet seed.

What NOT to Feed

Raw or dried beans, fruit pits or seeds, salty foods, anything moldy or spoiled, seeds sold for planting, bread or any other bakery item. Basically just stick to what I listed for safe foods, if you don't have any of them, it is best not to feed them.