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Hi Jody
Swans need a diet of 50% cracked corn and 50% poultry layer pellet with an offering of lettuce. Whole kernel, also known as deer corn is hard to swallow for some birds, especially cygnets. So, cracked corn is a much better format.
Cracked corn is a filler, meaning it bulks up the birds and makes them feel fuller, but it is also a source of critical Vitamin A for the birds. Without Vitamin A, swans can develop a nutritional deficit resulting in a neurological disorder.
The poultry layer pellets provide necessary vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, etc., and other necessary micronutrients.
The lettuce serves as a supplemental vegetation for the swans, especially during the winter months when aquatic and other vegetative resources are scarce.
Bread can also be used with the lettuce as a treat. Bread will not harm the birds as long as it is not the only food source provided. The Regal Swan
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