Of all the myths, this one dies the hardest death. Greys need enough calcium - like other birds. They do not need more.

Calcium plays a role in blood coagulation, maintains normal heart rhythm, transmits nerve impulses, calcifies egg shells, contracts the uterus during egg laying, and activates several enzyme systems. Seizures, as well as leg paralysis, have been associated with low blood calcium. Sudden collapse or fainting is characteristic of advanced calcium deficiency in Greys. Of all the species, Greys are most likely to suffer seizures from low blood calcium.

Anecdotal stories suggest some feather plucking may be caused by inadequate blood calcium levels.

Excessive levels of blood calcium can cause very serious and life threatening renal problems - mineralization of the kidneys and the renal tubes.

Be very careful with calcium supplements. Indiscriminate and excessive use of these supplements is dangerous and could become life threatening. The only time a calcium supplement should be given to a companion bird is after an abnormally low blood level is diagnosed and an avian vet prescribes supplementation.

The best way to prevent problems is to have a blood calcium level test done at the annual exam and to take your bird to the vet immediately at the first sign of illness. Since birds hide symptoms of illness, by the time there are symptoms (of whatever disease process), they are very sick indeed.

If a Grey is on a pellet-based varied diet - and such a diet may include high calcium foods such as almonds, low fat cheese, yogurt or veggies - he should not be given supplements unless prescribed by an avian vet. It is very important that a blood calcium test be performed at each annual exam, since calcium levels can change over time. Young birds will typically have a lower concentration than older companion birds.