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My birds stopped singing on pellets. Are they depressed? What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Good day. I recent switch my graniverous birds from seeds to pellets sporophila angolensis. Since the switch 3 months ago my birds have really dropped in their singing. To me some even look a little depressed lol. Any advice. I will say though some have molted and since on pellets the molts are fast and they come out with great feather condition.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Miranda Sadar, DVM, DACZM

Veterinarian

Published on June 26th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about your finches. It is great that you have switched your birds over to pellets and that you are seeing such great results! For finches, I recommend keeping a bit of seeds in the diet - this amount is approximately 10%. This can help to provide some fat in the diet and this can lead to an increase in singing. You can also add greens or other vegetables into the diet as enrichment and supplemental nutrition.
The depression portion is a bit concerning, as this should not be caused by diet unless the birds are not eating enough and are losing weight. If this concern continues after the birds have had a bit of seeds, I would recommend a veterinary visit.
I hope this gives you a place to start, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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