What diet should your bird be on?

Different species of birds require a little bit different diets than others. Some species require a little more of things than others for optimum health. Here’s a few suggestion to keep you bird healthy.

Most modern pelleted diets are made with specific species of birds in mine. Sometimes those are just not quite enough. In an effort to give you bird the best diet possible, sometimes you have to supplement.

African Grey parrots can develop a calcium deficiency. Your avian vet can run tests to check for the deficiency. The use of calcium supplements can cause your bird to get too much. Balance is key. Giving you African Grey almonds and broccoli can help prevent a lack of calcium. These birds enjoy raw, unprocessed almonds in the shell. It gives them a game to play, crack off the shell and get the almond inside as a reward.

Amazon, caiques and Pionus parrots can become overweight causing fatty liver disease. These birds need to get plenty of exercise and be kept away from too many treats. You can provide with a play gym or a huge variety of toys to play with. My White Capped Pionus like to be swung around so she can flap her wings, it’s great bonding time and exercise for her. These birds should also be offered a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Cockatiels can develop vitamin-A deficiencies. You should integrate lots of vitamin-A rich fruits and vegetables into their diets. Things like kale, broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes and mangoes.

Macaws can sometimes be picky eaters. They are attracted to colors, so fruits and veggies of varying shapes, sizes and colors are best to peak their interest. I have found that oranges cut in half will get their attention. They also love almonds in the shell, green beans and even yams.

I’ve only covered a few of the more popular birds that people own. If you own one not listed here, feel free to email me with any questions. Or just let me know what kind of bird you have and I’ll try to include it in future posts.


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