Parrots are one of the most popular, if not the most famous pet bird around the world. It comes in a multi-colored variation, and to top that, it can imitate human voices. Sadly, their numbers are decreasing. Parrots are being exploited and captured. There is a high demand for its beauty and unique traits.
There is nothing wrong if you want to take care of it as a pet. As proof, these birds have been known as pets for over 3000 years. The important thing is that you know how to keep it healthy and in top shape. This way, we can preserve their lives and possibly increase their population.
To make sure that our parrots are in a healthy condition, it is a must to give them a balanced diet. If you are wondering what to give your birds to get them the essential nutrients, we can help you out. Continue reading and find out the best tips for your fluffy parrots.
What to give your parrots?
Without any question, the best food they can get is from their natural habitat. For most pets that are at their owner’s custody, a wildlife diet is impossible. There is no need to worry. Here are the foods that you can feed them for their nutritional needs.
Vegetables
Make sure that the vegetables you will give them are washed thoroughly. Certain chemicals can be risky for birds. You don’t want them to intake any of those that will jeopardize their health, right?
For parrots, the green leafy vegetables are the number one on the list. It is already full of vitamins and minerals, and there is no need to put extra dressing. If there are any leftovers, make sure to remove it from their food tray. These vegetables can be spoiled, and you don’t want it to end up on the bird’s tummy.
Examples: kale, parsley, spinach, Swiss Chard, collard greens, butternut, pumpkins, bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots
Fruits
Birds, in general, are prone to vitamin a deficiency. If this happens, your pet’s immune system will fall. As a result, they will be vulnerable to diseases. Incorporating fruits to your birds’ diet can assure you that they will have a constant source of vitamin a.
Though parrots love fruits, you have to make sure that it will be given in moderation. It may contain lots of nutrients, but we all know that fruits are high in sugar. Not all fruits can be given in an instant. In some kinds, you need to remove its core and seeds to make it edible for the feathered pets.
Examples: blueberries, raspberries, bananas, apple, kiwi, papaya, melon, pineapple, and apricots
Seeds
Parrots love to munch on seeds. It is also a part of their natural food selection, even if they are in the wild. Due to the high demand for parrot food, a lot of mixes have been developed to meet the bird’s nutritional needs.
Examples: hemp seeds, sunflower seeds, millet seeds, thistle seeds, canary seeds, and safflower seeds
Pellets
These are special food developed to increase the healthy diet for your parrots. It is packed with grains, seeds, and minerals. It comes in different colors that attract your feathered friends. Before changing your birds into a pellet diet, consult your doctor first. This way, the veterinarian can assess the best pellet diet for your little pets.
Grains and Grasses
Including grains in parrots’ diet is beneficial to their health. It is a good source of protein that will give them the energy they need. Most of the grains are best served cooked as it can be essential for digestion and nutrients absorption.
Grasses, on the other hand, can be a delightful treat for your little pets. Not only it is healthy, but it is as close as what they can get in the wild. Their natural food is still the best for these birds. You have to make sure though that it is washed completely. Remember that the grasses you can find are not the same as what you can find from wild forests. It may contain pesticides that are dangerous for birds.
Home-cooked meals
No need to cook something separate for your pets. Human food is also fed to parrots. You can throw in a portion of whole-grain bread. Eggs are also good for the birds as it is a source of protein. Keep in mind, though, that you should not include salt or oil.
If you are preparing a pasta dish, parrots can have a feast on it too. Once the pasta is cooked and cooled, you can throw in a few. Mixing it with some boiled sweet potatoes can add additional flavor too.
What to do with picky parrots?
Unlike other birds, parrots tend to be a little spoiled. There are times when they become picky about what they eat. It is not a good thing. If they are inclined to eating specific foods only, then they are missing out on the other nutrients.
No need to worry. We have a solution for you. Here are some of the things you can do to deal with these picky pets.
Be Creative
Parrots are intelligent species. If you make an effort to be creative with their food, they won’t be able to help themselves but eat. You don’t necessarily have to create sophisticated designs. What you can do is give it a little twist. Instead of putting their food on the tray, try distributing it around the cage. You can hang it too or try to cover it in a tissue. This way, it will pique their curiosity and eventually eat.
Make an alternative
Whenever you feed the birds, observe their pattern. There are cases when they don’t like it raw. It doesn’t mean that they don’t like it. Maybe they just want it differently. You can try cooking it or even steaming.
Toy around
Let your playful side come out. Parrots are playful, and you can take advantage of that. Instead of giving then the food as it is, you can try to carve it into something cool. Your parrots won’t be able to resist playing with it out of curiosity. In the end, they will eat it and have fun at the same time.
Risky Foods
A little warning for parrot owners. There are some foods that you cannot give. Even though it may appear nutritious for humans, some are dangerous for birds. Some food contains toxic or poisonous chemicals for our pets.
Avocadoes are tasty but deadly for birds. Onions and shallots also contain cyanide like elements that are fatal for birds. Chocolates and anything with caffeine can give your little pets a heart attack. Also, if you are having a snack, don’t ever try to give them those salty crackers. It is bad for humans and even worse for birds.
Conclusion
Keeping your parrots healthy is the important thing. Giving them nutritious food is the best way to keep them in top shape. If you are unsure of anything that can cause harm to your feathered pets, put your vet on the speed dial. Coordinate with them so they can assess what is best for your parrot friends. This is the best way to avoid complications for your lovely birds.
