All softballs require more complicated feeding routines than seedeaters. The diet normally includes the following items. Proprietary brands of both fine grade and coarse grade insectile mixtures for soft bills can be obtained at pet food stores. The mixture should form a basic part of the diet, fine grade for the smaller species, including small insectivorous, omnivorous and frugivorous birds, and coarse grade for larger softballs, such as fruit suckers, jays and starlings. Lnsectile mixtures are not perishable, but should he store in airtight containers to preserve their moisture. These mixtures contain a well-balanced blend of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Nectar mixture is important to all types of softballs and essential for the nectarivorous species. Proprietary brands of nectar powder may be purchased. These mixtures are easy to prepare in the correct strength. They may be mixed with pure clear honey and warm water, instead of sugar, if desired. Honey contains less carbohydrate than sugar, so provides less energy but is not so fattening. A very active bird needs sugar, while a inure lethargic species lives well on honey. As many different types of fruit as possible should be offered. It must be ripe, but not over ripe, and unhruised. Chop all fruit into small cubes. Oranges, however, may sometimes he cut in half and suspended on pieces of string near favorite perching spot.
