You can make your own mineral blocks or buy them at a pet store. You can even buy mineral blocks that are flavored with vegetables or fruits.
Most recipes for mineral blocks use plaster of paris. Years ago plaster of paris contained asbestos which was harmful. Today’s plaster of paris does not contain asbestos, but caution should be taken not to breathe in the dust because of the silica it contains.
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Make Your Own Mineral Blocks
5 parts lime (found in garden center)
2 parts ( or more) plaster of paris
4 parts bone meal (found in garden center)
1 part mineral supplement
a little dicalcium phosphate
enough water to make a thick cake batter
Use garden twist wires and make a “squashed” loop ( Ω ) to go into the mixture as soon as it is poured into smooth sided cups sprayed with Pam Cooking Spray so that they slide out easy.
Note: Plastic ice cube trays may be used. Do not use pleated nut cups; the hardened product is hard to get out.
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Birdie Mineral Blocks
1 pound plaster of Paris
1/2 cup oyster shell
1/2 tsp Kelp (find at a health food store)
1 tbs salt
1 cup water
Mix this fast and have containers ready, small plastic bowls or ice cube trays work well. If you want to bolt them or twist tie them to the cage make sure you push the bolt or tie in while mix is wet. After they are set, smack the containers to release them.
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NOTE: Special cleanup methods should be used with plaster of paris as it can interfere with the flow of plumbing systems downstream of the disposal area. The residue of these products will often solidify underwater and plug up drains, stain gutters and sidewalks and spoil planting areas.
Mineral Blocks for Birds
![Mineral Blocks for Birds]()
Reviewed by barbara hair mouse
Published :
Rating : 4.5
Published :
Rating : 4.5
