As we all realise Australia has been in a terrible drought situation. The effects are wide ranging but the one that concerns birdkeepers is the limited grain supply. Consequently the seed that is going to be fed to your birds for the next 12 months could be at least 2 years old.
Now that the summer cropping regions cannot plant we will be reliant on the seed from the irrigation areas where they have water supply. Expect to pay more and have difficulty getting seed (let alone good seed).
Why is this important to know? The vitamin levels of grain that has been stored for long periods are depleted and there is also decreased energy and protein levels. Palatability can also be affected, especially in oats, but more importantly, storage increases the possibility of aflatoxin production from the fungus infected food.
What are mycotoxins?
Mycotoxins are extremely potent toxins that are made by fungi that grow on grains. They are very difficult to detect and can be very common. There are several different types of toxins made by different fungi and the common one is called Aflatoxin. You do not need to see mould in the grain to have mycotoxins present. Although mycotoxins do occur in grains while in the paddock, the vast majority are formed while the grain is in storage.
What do mycotoxins do?
The disease caused by mycotoxins is dependant on which toxin is eaten, the amount that is eaten, the susceptibility of the individual and over what period it is eaten
As a general rule mycotoxins cause some degree of liver damage. However a low level intake may only reduce the growth rate or reproduction of a bird without ever killing it. Or in some cases chicks may die while the adults appear unaffected.
Mycotoxins will grow on most grains including corn, peanuts, wheat and cottonseed. In stored grain the ideal conditions for mycotoxins are a temperature of 24 – 35° Celsius and a moisture content of 17%. Mycotoxins can be produced within 24 hours at these conditions. Once produced they are almost impossible to eliminate. They can withstand a temperature of 100° Celsius and are very long lasting in the grain.
How do I prevent a disaster in my birds?