Healthy and balanced nutrition is the cornerstone of a long and high-quality life for parrots. To protect both their physical health and emotional balance, it is crucial to establish proper feeding habits. However, one of the most common mistakes pet owners make is giving parrots human food or feeding them only seeds. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the foods that are beneficial and harmful for parrots.

1. Beneficial Foods for Parrots

a. Fresh Fruits:

• Apple (seedless)

• Banana

• Grapes (in moderation)

• Orange, tangerine (small amounts)

• Pear

• Strawberry, blueberry, blackberry

Note: Fruits should be given in moderation due to high sugar content.

b. Vegetables:

• Carrot

• Zucchini

• Broccoli

• Cauliflower

• Spinach

• Arugula

• Parsley

• Lettuce (curly or iceberg – in small amounts)

c. Grains and Legumes:

• Boiled lentils

• Chickpeas (unsalted and boiled)

• Rice

• Oats

• Quinoa

• Bulgur

d. Nuts (in moderation):

• Walnuts

• Almonds (unsalted and raw)

• Hazelnuts

• Sunflower seeds (very limited)

• Pumpkin seeds

e. Seed Mixes:

• Sunflower seeds (in moderation)

• Millet (yellow, red, and white)

• Flaxseed

• Chia seeds

f. Extra Supplements:

• Mineral blocks and calcium stones

• Cuttlebones (cuttlefish bone)

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1. Harmful Foods for Parrots

a. Human Foods:

• Chocolate

• Caffeinated drinks (tea, coffee)

• Alcohol

• Chips, crackers, salty snacks

• Sugary foods, cakes, biscuits

• Onion and garlic

b. Toxic Fruits and Vegetables:

• Avocado (all parts are toxic)

• Raw potato

• Tomato (including green parts)

• Apple seeds (contain cyanide)

• Cherry, apricot, peach pits

• Mushrooms (especially wild ones)

c. Dairy Products:

• Parrots cannot digest lactose. Milk, yogurt, and cheese may cause digestive issues.

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1. How to Maintain Balance in Nutrition?

• Daily feeding should be balanced: seeds + fresh vegetables + fruits + supplements.

• Seed selection should be tailored to the parrot’s age, species, and health condition.

• Fresh water must always be available, and bowls should be cleaned regularly.

• Vegetables can be steamed for softness but must be unseasoned and unsalted.

• Food should be served in small, bite-sized pieces.

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1. Feeding Mistakes and Consequences

• Excessive seed consumption: Leads to obesity and liver problems.

• Insufficient fruits and vegetables: Weakens the immune system and increases feather loss.

• Toxic foods: Can cause poisoning or even fatal conditions.

• Lack of calcium: Increases the risk of bone problems and egg binding (in females).

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1. Tips for a Parrot’s Feeding Routine

• Offer vegetables and fruits in the morning.

• Provide a fresh seed mix in the evening.

• Introduce new flavors once or twice a week to broaden the parrot’s palate.

• Training treats (like almonds, walnuts, etc.) should not exceed 10% of daily calories.

Conclusion:
For parrots to live a healthy and happy life, nutrition plays a crucial role. Choosing the right foods, ensuring dietary variety, and avoiding harmful items are essential. Remember, parrots can live anywhere from 20 to 60 years, and throughout this long journey, proper nutrition is their guarantee of health.