STOCK UP ON NATURAL bird food blends and treats labeled “Made in the USA,” data from a new report suggests. “Bird Products: U.S. Pet Market Trends and Opportunities” by market research firm Packaged Facts notes trends in bird nutrition are being set by influential Hispanic and Asian customers, who are far more likely to own birds for pets than other companion animals.
Crunch & Fun Parrot Treat
L’Avian Plus
KEY FEATURES: Pistachios, peanuts, raisins, pineapple and pine nuts — this specially formulated bar includes a complex mista of real fruit and nuts.
SALES TIP: First it’s a treat, then it’s a toy: Birds can munch the snack and then play with the rig inside.
lavianplus.com, (800) 543-3308
$23
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Bird Lover’s Blend
Brown’s
KEY FEATURES: Five pounds of nuts, berries and bugs in one colorful package.
SALES TIP: To bring in a backyard bird brigade, this blend attracts colorful songbirds throughout the year.
fmbrown.com, (800) 334-8816
$8.99
Nectar Pods
Exotic Nutrition
KEY FEATURES: A fruit-based jelly treat that comes in three different fruit flavors and with a boost of added calcium. Sell the specially designed Nectar Pods Holder as an easy add-on.
SALES TIP: For homes with multiple types of pets, these nectar pods work for birds, fruit-eating mammals and day geckos.
exoticnutrition.com, (757) 988-0301
$5.99
Sunburst Gourmet Blend
Higgins Premium
KEY FEATURES: This food and treat combo recently rolled out with fresh packaging and features mixed fruits, nuts and legumes fortified with plant-based DHA omega-3 fatty acids.
SALES TIP: It’s all about the optics — Sunburst colors are sourced from seeds, spices and vegetables rather than chemical colors.
higginspremium.com, (800) 878-2666
$12.49
Sizzle N’ Heat
D&D Commodities
KEY FEATURES: For outdoor feeders, this sizzling blend keeps squirrels out of the birds’ way.
SALES TIP: A classic product to introduce to the birdwatchers in your store.
wilddelight.com, (800) 543-3308
$18.99
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Organic Starter Crumbles
MannaPro
KEY FEATURES: Complete nutrition for young and growing birds developed without pesticides, medications or genetically modified ingredients.
SALES TIP: This blend of 19 percent protein and nutrients is an ideal start for young flocks of chicks.
mannapro.com, (800) 690-9908
$35
Parrot Food Pellets
Top’s Parrot Food
KEY FEATURES: These cold-pressed pellets keep natural nutrition intact and are naturally preserved with rosemary, rose hips, lemon and orange peel.
SALES TIP: Hype the ingredient label here: non-GMO, USDA organic certified and made in the USA.
topsparrotfood.com, (503) 286-1198
$5.26
Mealworms
Timberline
KEY FEATURES: Protein-packed mealworms are available in five sizes to fit the bill for birds that prefer a little wiggle in their meals.
SALES TIP: Timberline offers a strategic merchandising program for retailers to keep live food fresh and bring in repeat business.
timberlinefresh.com, (800) 423-2248
$1.99