Poppy seeds

[Birdnut]

I was eating some almond poppy seed cake yesterday, and Moussa wanted some, but I was afraid to share any with him because I was worried about the poppy seeds.

 

I was thinking poppy seeds might be harmful, since they can cause some people to show up positive on a drug test.

 

Any information on this? I've seen poppy listed as a plant toxic to birds, but I also saw where poppy seeds are an ingredient in Momma's Birdie Bred and in a Goldenfeast seed mix.

[Guest]

Hi, Birdnut,

 

I've read in several sources (books, websites, bird club newsletter) that poppy seeds are indeed safe for parrots. Bon appetit!

 

>^..^<

[Azzie]

Birdnut, have a read of the following article, and scroll down. It's got some info on poppy seeds and a positive drug test.

 

http://www.mythbustersfanclub.com/mb2/content/view/15/27/

 

As you will see, it talks about NANOgrams, so it's highly unlikely that even a much smaller parrot will feel any effects from the relatively few seeds contained in a cake or bagel. I've also read that poppy seeds are safe, and some commercial birdfood mixes contain poppy seeds.

[birdhouse]

Poppy seeds are in a number of commercial bird seed mixes & ok for birds to eat. But poppy plants are on the toxic list.

 

While we're on the subject, the same goes for hemp seed & for pretty much the same reason.

[Birdnut]

@Azzie: Thanks for the link. Very interesting.

 

@birdhouse: Love the owl! LOL!

[judygram]

I just bought some poppy seed treats for Josey so I just assumed they were safe though I haven't opened the bag yet but I will now, thanks Birdnut for asking the question.

[ranaz]

I do really love this forum...I always find an answer for any question regarding greys