Parrots make wonderful companions and they’re always a popular choice for anyone keen to foster an interest in birdkeeping… but starting an aviary at home is a little different to welcoming a dog or cat into the fold, so you need to make sure that you’re properly prepared and have a solid understanding of what to expect.
First of all, you need to know what to feed your parrot so that they’ll get all the nourishment they need to grow up strong, happy and healthy.
Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
What food do parrots eat?
Variety is the spice of life for parrots, so make sure you give them seeds, pellets, fresh fruit and vegetables regularly.
The specific mix of bird food will depend on the species of parrot you have, but all parrots are omnivores so you can give them nuts, grains and insects to ensure a lovely balanced diet.
Here at Johnston & Jeff, we have a wide range of different options for parrots, all created to ensure optimal nutrition for your birds.
Our Cockatiel and Big Parakeet feed, for example, is ideal for smaller parrot species, rich in proteins, oils and other high-quality ingredients to deliver optimal health, vigour and feather quality… as well as ensuring that your parrot will never get bored of its delicious taste!
Or what about our Lovebird blend, specifically formulated for these wonderful birds with more than 50 per cent plain canary seed and no sunflower seeds, so it’s low in fat and nutritionally balanced.
What human food is safe for parrots?
A lot of human food is safe for parrots to eat, including vegetables and fruits, as well as cooked grains and lean meats. Always make sure that any human food you give your birds doesn’t contain any salt, sugar or seasoning.
Human food to avoid includes avocado, garlic, onions and chocolate.
How often should parrots be fed?
Aim to feed your parrot twice a day, with a main meal in the morning and another in the evening before they hang up their hat to roost.
Build consistency into their routine to help mimic natural foraging habits in the wild, but also make sure that you provide them with a bowl of pellets at all times, as well as supplementing their diet with nuts, fresh fruit and veg.
What’s the best fruit for parrots?
Your parrot will love any fruits that are particularly rich in vitamins and minerals, including melons, mangoes, bananas, blueberries, papaya and pomegranates.
Always make sure the fruit is washed properly and if they have any seeds or pips, these will need to be removed as they can be toxic.
Can parrots eat cheese?
Typically, you should aim to avoid giving your parrot cheese as these birds are lactose intolerant and they won’t do well with dairy. Many cheeses are also high in salt and fat, which can be bad for your bird’s health.
What not to feed parrots?
Apart from the avocado, chocolate, onions and garlic that we mentioned above, also avoid giving your parrots:
– Alcohol
– Caffeine
– Fruit seeds and pits
– Mushrooms
– Rhubarb
– Raw beans
– Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
– Processed foods
– Dairy products
Of course, this is by no means a definitive guide to parrot food, so if you have any further questions, give the Johnston & Jeff team a call today.
