Lutein in the diet

[Diane]

Just need some advice regarding Lutein.
I have read that lutein is a structural component of feathers, part of the carotenoid group. I know cartenoids are found in kale, carrot, sweet potatoes, collard greens and tomatoes.
This is supposed to be helpful with the immune system, reproductive system, protection against free radicals and a good source of Vit A.

While watching tv an advert came on advertising a milk based product for children containing lutein which mentioned that the lutein was derived from Marigolds. After a quick look this morning, marigolds can be classed as an edible plants for humans and Ive read anecdotal evidence that wild birds, blackbirds in particular will eat the marigolds.

Now to my question.
Is it a safe plant for finches?
This is one site I found but it does show a parrot.
http://www.backyard-birds.net/articles/ ... owers.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[VR1Ton]

Canaries love them, as well as Nestesium flowers (think I've spelt it right, little rusty on the plants these days).

[Diane]

Thanks VR, looks like a trip to the garden centre is needed to get some marigold seed to plant.

[VR1Ton]

And the old story of Marigolds planted amongst your Tomatoes to stop nematodes works, stops them attacking the marigolds & drives them straight to the tomatoes

[Tiaris]

My understanding is that lutein is the amino acid largely responsible for yellow pigmentation in feathers and that it is best derived by birds from yellow fruits, veges or "greens". Corn, for example, is a highly palatable source of lutein for birds. May be be alot easier to coax finches to eat than marigolds too.

[Diane]

I usually put some peas carrots and corn mix into the egg, or sprouted seed. I thinking it might be a more "natural" way and give then something to forage through.

[jusdeb]

Would the marigolds be OK in the aviary as a potted plant ...