A simple rule of thumb to follow when feeding a parrot is to make sure their diet is as colorful as their feathers. A healthy and nutritious diet should consist of fruits, vegetables, seeds and pellets. Parrots will literally eat anything from apples to spinach. In their natural habitat, parrots naturally search for these healthy foods, so the goal is to offer them their most natural source of food or healthiest alternative. Feeding your pets, especially parrots, highly processed foods can make them sick, or even worse, kill them.
Protein
Some owners give their parrots chicken bones. Some vets recommend chicken bones as a good source of protein while others warn against it due to the amount of fat that could be consumed.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts are a parrot’s favorite treat and are often used as a reward when teaching your bird new tricks or tasks. You can feed your parrot almonds, cashews, pecans, walnuts, pistachios and even peanut butter! Sunflower and safflower seeds are other common seeds that parrots enjoy which are also healthy for them.
Fruits and Vegetables
Parrots enjoy a large variety of fruits and vegetables, like apples, bananas, citrus fruits, papaya, passion fruit and peaches, just to name a few. They’re not picky with their vegetables either—they’ll eat asparagus, beets, bell peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, even hot peppers! The list of nutritious, enjoyable fruits and vegetables is endless to feed your bird!
Pellets
Not all pet owners have the time and money to give their parrot fresh fruits and vegetables, so while you should try and offer them fresh food as often as possible, pellets are a great alternative. They are usually cheaper and more convenient because there is no preparation—just a scoop a day will keep your feathered friend happy and healthy all day.
To wrap it all up, it really is key to have a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins and nuts to make sure your feathered friend keeps its feathers as bright as their plate!
