Feeding & Nutrition
Diet is the number-one thing owners get wrong, and poor nutrition drives a huge share of avian-vet visits. An all-seed diet slowly harms most parrots, while some everyday human foods are outright toxic. Here we cover the practical mechanics: pellet-and-fresh-food ratios, safe fruits and vegetables, foods to keep far away from your bird, and how to transition a seed junkie onto a healthier plate without a hunger strike.
What Fruits Can Parrots Eat? Safe Picks and Ones to Skip
Parrots can safely eat most fresh fruit, including apple (seeds removed), banana, berries, mango, papaya, melon, and grapes.
The Complete Parrot Diet Guide: What to Feed for a Long, Healthy Life
Feed a parrot a formulated pellet as the daily base (about 60-70% of intake), plus fresh vegetables and leafy greens (20-30%), a small amount of fruit.
Foods Toxic to Parrots: The Complete Never-Feed List
Foods toxic to parrots include avocado (persin), chocolate and cocoa (theobromine), caffeine, alcohol, xylitol, onion and garlic, and the pits of stone.
Pellets vs Seeds for Parrots: Which Is Better (and How to Switch)?
For most companion parrots, formulated pellets are healthier than seeds as the base of the diet.
- How to Sprout Seeds and Grains for Parrots Safely
- Chop Recipes: Batch-Prep a Week of Parrot Meals