In general, parrots should receive about 75% pellets and 25% other foods. This handout discusses some of the healthy foods that might make up the part of the diet that is not pellets. Remove fresh foods within about 8 hours to avoid exposing birds to spoilage.
Vitamin A Dense Veggies: Vitamin A is essential for healthy feathers and skin, good eyesight, and a strong, healthy immune system. Vegetables are a better source of vitamin A than fruits. Give your bird vegetables that have dark colored “flesh”, as these have higher beta carotene content. Beta carotene is converted into the active form of vitamin A through metabolism. Vegetables are best fed raw, but may also be served cooked (steamed or sautéed with a small amount of healthy vegetable oil). Overcooking vegetables can break down vitamin A and reduce the nutritional benefit.
Good sources of vitamin A include the following: dark leafy greens (collards, kale, spinach, broccoli, turnip greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, chicory, chard, parsley, and alfalfa), green/red/hot peppers, sweet potatoes, carrots, and pumpkin.
Protein: Choose healthy proteins that are low in fat, as the intestinal flora of parrots is different from that of mammals and humans.
Good sources of protein include the following – nonfat plain yogurt, tofu, hard boiled eggs, chicken (well cooked), white fish, turkey, water packed tuna, grains, brown rice, enriched/whole grain pasta, nuts (shelled and of human grade, no salt), and beans.
Healthy Fruits and Vegetables: Offering fruits and vegetables can help enrich your parrot’s psychological and nutritional well-being.
Healthy fruits and vegetables include the following – peas in the pod, bean sprouts, leeks, artichokes, zucchini, green beans, okra, beets, tomato, potato, apples, banana, dark berries, pomegranate, oranges or tangerines, kiwi, cranberries, etc.
Whole Grains:
Good sources of whole grains include the following – whole grain breads, unsweetened or low sugar cereals, whole grain pasta, brown rice, low fat granola, wheat germ, wild rice, and oat bran.
Carbohydrates:
Good sources of carbohydrates include the following – fruits, pasta, grains, beans, potatoes, peas, nuts, and small amounts of seeds.
Food Concerns and Important Notes:
-NEVER FEED avocado/guacamole or chocolate (toxic). DO NOT OFFER alcoholic or caffeinated beverages. Feeding peanuts, especially in shells, is not recommended due to risk of fungal infection.
-AVOID FEEDING grapes (high sugar, contain toxins) and apple seeds/cores (seeds contain cyanide).
-AVOID FEEDING uncultured dairy/milk products, as birds are essentially lactose intolerant.
-Research suggests that most birds make food choices based on color and texture rather than taste.
-Dietary changes and new foods may alter the consistency/color of your pet’s stool. Please contact us if you have any questions/concerns in this regard.