The Right Diet for Your Bird: Nutrition 101

Why Diet Matters

The single biggest factor in your bird's long-term health is what you feed them. Many birds in rescue situations arrive with fatty liver disease, vitamin deficiencies, and obesity caused by seed-only diets.

The Pellet Foundation

High-quality pellets should make up 50–70% of most parrots' diets. Brands like Harrison's, Roudybush, and TOP's Organic are veterinarian-recommended. Pellets provide balanced nutrition that seeds cannot.

Fresh Produce

Offer a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits daily — about 20–30% of the diet. Great choices include broccoli, carrots, sweet potato, bell peppers, kale, blueberries, and mango. Wash produce thoroughly.

Seeds and Nuts as Treats

Seeds are high in fat and should be limited to 10–15% of the diet. Use them as training rewards. Nuts like almonds and walnuts (unsalted) are excellent occasional treats for larger parrots.

Foods to Avoid

Never feed your bird avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, onion, garlic, or fruit pits. Non-stick cookware fumes (PTFE) are also lethal.

Transitioning Diets

Switching a seed-addicted bird to pellets takes patience. Mix pellets into the seed bowl, gradually increasing the ratio over several weeks. Monitor weight during the transition.

Water

Fresh, clean water must be available at all times. Change water bowls at least twice daily to prevent bacterial growth.