What can your parrot eat? What should you avoid feeding your parrot? Below is a list of 250 (and counting) items that you may be considering to feed your parrot, but are unsure of their safety.
Use the "search" or "find in page" function of your browser to jump to the specific food you are looking for. If the food item is underlined, it is a link to a corresponding article where you can read about the food item in greater detail!
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What this table CAN do:
- Provide general information about various foods gathered through desk research from reliable sources such as avian nutritionists, etc.
- Provide a “to the best of our knowledge” indicator of the safety of the food item based on our assessment of its nutritional content
What this table CANNOT do:
- Prescribe diets for specific species – different species of parrots have different needs, so you should always read up more about what your specific parrot species needs, and cross-check with various sources to formulate a diet suitable for them
- Guarantee absolute safety or toxicity – this depends on many factors, such as size of bird, amount of food item eaten, incompatibilities with other types of food, environmental factors, specific health conditions or dietary needs of individual birds
If in any doubt, always consult with an avian nutritionist or avian veterinarian for advice.
Definitions of terms used:
- “Yes” – Bird can eat this food without much harm generally
- “Limited” – Generally safe, but might cause some health issues if fed in high quantities
- “Depends” – Depends on the type of food item (or the way it is processed) – some may be safer than others
- “No” – Usually creates issues and needs to be avoided
Dairy
General remarks: Most parrots are lactose-intolerant, and while dairy is not necessarily toxic to parrots, it can cause stomach upset and diarrhea in some birds (just like for some humans). In addition, several dairy products are full of fat, sugar or salt, which are not healthy for parrots if fed frequently. Opt for low/no lactose dairy products that are low in fat, sugar, and other additive if you must feed dairy - otherwise, simply avoid it!
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dairy | Milk (from animals) | Avoid | Parrots cannot digest lactose, may cause stomach upset |
| Dairy | Milk (from plants) | Depends | Nut milk (almond, etc.), unsweetened and unflavored, are generally ok, but should only be given as a treat. Avoid bean milk. |
| Dairy | Butter | Limited | Full of fat; avoid (though better than margarine) |
| Dairy | Cheese | Limited | Parrots cannot digest lactose, may cause stomach upset |
| Dairy | Cream (sour, whipped, etc.) | Limited | Full of fat; avoid |
| Dairy | Ice cream | Limited | Parrots cannot digest lactose; high in fat and sugar. Never offer alcoholic or chocolate ice cream. |
| Dairy | Margarine | Limited | Full of fat; avoid |
| Dairy | Yoghurt | Yes | Yoghurt with live cultures have no lactose, therefore are safe. Limit feeding flavored/sweetened yoghurts (high in sugar) |
Eggs
Eggs are sometimes fed to parrots as a source of protein, but bear in mind that high protein diets can result in hormonal challenges. Some aviculturists are also against the use of animal protein in parrots' diets as parrots do not often feed on such proteins in the wild.
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eggs | Eggs | Yes | Excellent source of vitamin A, calcium, and protein. Great for breeding birds. Feed boiled or fried (without oil). Never offer raw or undercooked. |
Flowers/teas
General remarks: Never feed any form of caffeinated teas to your parrots, but flower teas are generally safe. That being said, feed flowers in moderation and variety as some may have medicinal effects. Edible fresh or dried flowers (not those for craft-making!) can also be used as foraging material to enrich the feeding experience of your pet parrots.
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flowers/teas | Carnation | Limited | Do not feed dyed varieties. |
| Flowers/teas | Chamomile | Limited | Contain antimicrobial activities that aid in treating infections and lessening swelling. |
| Flowers/teas | Jasmine | Limited | Strengthens parrot's immunity and treats liver diseases. |
| Flowers/teas | Passion flower | Limited | They contain cyanide, a very toxic compound. Should only be fed in moderation. |
| Flowers/teas | Rooibos | Limited | It's tannin free; therefore, it enhances the absorption of minerals and vitamins. |
| Flowers/teas | Calendula | Yes | Contain anti-inflammatory properties. Good for parrots with infections and fungus. Best when used in salads. |
| Flowers/teas | Echinacea | Yes | Contain anti-inflammatory properties. |
| Flowers/teas | Green tea/matcha | No | Excellent source of antioxidants and vitamins, but it contains caffeine - avoid giving to your parrot. |
| Flowers/teas | Hibiscus | Yes | Good source of vitamin C and also relieves parrots from high blood pressure and high cholesterol. |
| Flowers/teas | Earl grey | No | Usually uses black teas as a base, which contains caffeine. |
| Flowers/teas | Oolong tea | No | Contains caffeine. |
| Flowers/teas | Black tea/red tea | No | Contains caffeine. |
| Flowers/teas | Rose | Yes | Good source of vitamin C. |
| Flowers/teas | Rose hips | Yes | Very high in vitamin C and anti-inflammatory properties. |
| Flowers/teas | Yerba mate | No | Contains caffeine similar to a cup of coffee - avoid giving it to your parrot |
Fruits
General remarks: Other than a handful of toxic fruits and fruit parts, such as avocado, avocado stones, pits of pitted fruits (e.g. peach, cherry, apricot, etc.) and apple seeds, most fruits are generally safe. A rule of thumb is to include fruits in your parrots' diet, but be careful of the amounts given as many fruits are high in sugar.
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fruits | Fruit, dried | Depends | Dried fruits with no additives like preservatives and sugars are generally safe |
| Fruits | Clementine | Limited | They are highly acidic. So, it should be fed in moderation. |
| Fruits | Mandarin | Limited | Highly acidic, may cause stomach upset if too given too much/too often |
| Fruits | Olive | Limited | They contain too much fats and sodium chloride that may lead to overweight and high blood pressure in parrots. |
| Fruits | Pomelo (pummelo, shaddock) | Limited | They are highly acidic. So, it should be fed in moderation. |
| Fruits | Starfruit (carambola) | Limited | Seeds can be bitter and unpleasant to taste. |
| Fruits | Tamarind | Limited | Doesn't have any nutritional value and may cause allergic reactions if consumed excessively. |
| Fruits | Avocado | No | Flesh, pit, and skin are highly toxic to parrots. They contain persin, a toxic chemical compound. |
| Fruits | Banana | Yes | Remove peels; often contain high amounts of pesticides (even organic ones). |
| Fruits | Blackberry | Yes | Excellent source of anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that protects parrots against infections. |
| Fruits | Blackcurrant | Yes | Excellent source of vitamin C |
| Fruits | Blueberry | Yes | High in nutrients and lower in calories. |
| Fruits | Cantaloupe | Yes | Packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Remove the rinds although they are not toxic but super hard for your parrot to tear. |
| Fruits | Coconut | Yes | It has a unique blend of minerals and vitamins. Avoid dessicated coconut by all means because it can be fatal to parrots unless properly soaked before feeding your parrot. |
| Fruits | Cranberry | Yes | Good source of vitamin C, antioxidants, fibre, and other minerals. |
| Fruits | Custard apple (Cherimoya) | Yes | Avoid seeds and pits because they are toxic. Otherwise, the flesh is a good source of antioxidants. |
| Fruits | Date | Yes | There are countless of nutritional benefits associated to dates. They help promote a healthy blood flow in parrots. |
| Fruits | Dragonfruit (pitaya) | Yes | Very high in fiber that enhances digestion in parrots. Feed dragonfruit in moderation . |
| Fruits | Durian | Yes | Rich in vitamin C, folic acid. Husks are inedible. |
| Fruits | Elderberry | Yes | Only offer your parrots ripe elderberries. They are an excellent source of vitamin C. |
| Fruits | Fig | Yes | Are very rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre. |
| Fruits | Gooseberry | Yes | They have an exotic, tart, and tangy taste that parrots really love. They are also very rich in vitamin A and vitamin C. |
| Fruits | Grape | Yes | Contains high sugars. So, it should be fed as a treat. |
| Fruits | Guava | Yes | Good source of vitamins. Be sure to wash the fruit well before giving your bird to get rid of pesticides and other debris. |
| Fruits | Honeydew | Yes | They are a good source of fiber, which is great for your parrot's digestive tract. |
| Fruits | Jackfruit | Yes | It's a delicious snack for parrots, but don't let your bird overeat the fruit. |
| Fruits | Kiwi | Yes | Are an excellent source of dietary fibre, antioxidants, and vitamin C that supports the digestive health and immunity of your parrot. Feed in moderation because they are a bit acidic. |
| Fruits | Kumquat | Yes | It's a healthy fruit that is fully packed with vitamin C and anti-inflammatory properties. |
| Fruits | Longan | Yes | Peels are full of pesticides, do not give. Seeds are tough, unpleasant and slightly toxic, do not give. |
| Fruits | Loquat | Yes | Remove the seeds and pits because they are toxic and often full of pesticides. |
| Fruits | Lychee (litchi) | Yes | Peels are full of pesticides, do not give. Seeds are tough, unpleasant and slightly toxic, do not give. |
| Fruits | Mango | Yes | Wash the pit thouroughly before feeding it to your parrot. |
| Fruits | Mangosteen | Yes | Avoid the skin because it contains wax-like liquid that could possibly poison your parrot. Seeds are also so big for parrots to swallow. However, mangosteen flesh is very rich in vitamin C, B1, B2, B9, carbohydrates, manganese, and magnesium. |
| Fruits | Mulberry | Yes | Should be offered as a treat. It's a great source of fibre, minerals, and vitamins. |
| Fruits | Nectarine | Yes | Avoid seeds and pits because they contain cyanide, a very toxic compound. Feed fresh nectarines since dry ones contain sulphates, which can be fatal to your bird. |
| Fruits | Orange | Yes | They are highly acidic. So, it should be fed in moderation. |
| Fruits | Papaya | Yes | Excellent source of fiber, fat, and protein, which are responsible for keeping your parrot fit and healthy. |
| Fruits | Passion Fruit | Yes | Wash well to get rid of pesticides. |
| Fruits | Peach | Yes | Do not feed pits as they contain cyanide compounds which are toxic to parrots |
| Fruits | Pear | Yes | Very rich in vitamin A and calcium. |
| Fruits | Persimmon | Yes | Must only be fed when ripe. Unripe persimmon contains a very toxic compound called tannins. |
| Fruits | Pineapple | Yes | It's a good source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes. |
| Fruits | Plum | Yes | Do not feed pits as they contain cyanide compounds which are toxic to parrots |
| Fruits | Pomegranate | Yes | They are full of antioxidants and health benefits for your bird. the pit is not so edible but both seeds and pits are safe for your parrot. |
| Fruits | Prickly Pear | Yes | Make sure you remove the skin first. |
| Fruits | Prune | Yes | Do not feed pits as they contain cyanide compounds which are toxic to parrots |
| Fruits | Raisin | Yes | Excellent source of vitamins and nutrients. |
| Fruits | Rambutan | Yes | Peels are full of pesticides, do not give. Seeds are tough, unpleasant and slightly toxic, do not give. |
| Fruits | Raspberry | Yes | You need to clean well before feeding them to your parrot. They contain parasites and other debris that can make your parrot sick. |
| Fruits | Rose apple (jambu) | Yes | Good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, calcium, and fiber. |
| Fruits | Soursop | Yes | Seeds are toxic and should not be consumed. |
| Fruits | Strawberry | Yes | Loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants. |
| Fruits | Tangerine | Yes | The fruit, flesh, peels, and seeds are all safe and can offer wonderful benefits for your parrot. |
| Fruits | Watermelon | Yes | Seeds, flesh, and rinds are all ok. |
| Fruits | Wolfberry (goji berry) | Yes | Excellent source of vitamin A and anti-oxidants. |
| Fruits | Apple | Yes* | Do not feed apple seeds as they contain cyanide compounds which are toxic to parrots |
| Fruits | Apricot | Yes* | Do not feed pits as they contain cyanide compounds which are toxic to parrots |
| Fruits | Cherry | Yes* | Do not feed pits as they contain cyanide compounds which are toxic to parrots |
| Fruits | Grapefruit | Yes* | Highly acidic, may cause stomach upset if too given too much/too often |
| Fruits | Lemon | Yes* | Highly acidic, may cause stomach upset if too given too much/too often |
| Fruits | Lime | Yes* | Highly acidic, may cause stomach upset if too given too much/too often |
Grains
General remarks: Several grains possess great nutritional benefits, but it is important to know which ones are better offered sprouted or raw.
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grains | Bread | Depends | It's of low nutritional value. If any, feed only whole grain, unsalted breads. |
| Grains | Cereal | Depends | Avoid frosted corn flakes because they are coated with sugars making them unhealthy for parrots. |
| Grains | Rye | Depends | Rye is not a good treat for your parrot because it has lots of fibers and is minimally processed. |
| Grains | Semolina | Depends | As long as it's ground to a powder-like consistency. |
| Grains | Sorghum | Depends | Contains anti-nutrients and should be sprouted before offering. Avoid sprouted Milo sorghum because they tend to produce higher levels of toxic compounds known as dhurrins when germinated. These compounds are potentially lethal to birds. |
| Grains | Amaranth seeds | Yes | Contains a good amount of methionine and lysine amino acids. |
| Grains | Barley (whole, hulled, pearled) | Yes | Can be served either cooked or raw. They are a good source of starch, vitamins, and minerals. |
| Grains | Buckwheat | Yes | It's a great ingredient for parrots and has all the 8 essential amino acids. It's also a good source of complex carbohydrates. |
| Grains | Bulgur | Yes | It's better than white rice and contains antioxidants that are good your parrot's health. |
| Grains | Corn kernel | Yes | Parrots enjoy eating corn kernels but should be given in moderation. It's an excellent source of starch. |
| Grains | Millet | Yes | Good source of calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, and protein. It's fine food for sick, young, breeding, and new parrots. |
| Grains | Oats | Yes | Good source of fiber, which is responsible for digestion in parrots. |
| Grains | Pasta | Yes | Full of energy-enhancing carbohydrates. Wash thoroughly to remove any salt or oil. |
| Grains | Popcorn | Yes | Good source of starch, iron, calcium, and fibre. Avoid microwavable, highly flavored, or excessively salted popcorns because they can be detrimental to your parrot's health. |
| Grains | Quinoa | Yes | It's an excellent source of phosphorous, protein, and calcium. |
| Grains | Rice (white, brown) | Yes | Brown rice is more nutritious than the white ones. Wash thoroughly before feeding them to your parrot because rice often contains arsenic and bacteria, which may harm your parrot. Avoid using flavors or too much oil when cooking, keep the rice as bland as possible. |
| Grains | Spelt | Yes | Excellent source of zinc, which helps improve the immune system in parrots. |
Herbs/Spices
General remarks: Many herbs and spices can be fed to parrot and would literally "spice up" their feeding experience! Take note of those that should be fed only in moderation due to high contents of certain compounds that may cause issues in some cases.
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herbs/spices | Cinnamon | Depends | Avoid Chinese/cassia cinnamon because they contain a lot of coumarin, a toxic blood thinner that can cause severe liver issues in parrots. |
| Herbs/spices | Ginseng | Depends | Should be used cautiously in birds with heart problems, high blood pressure, hyperexcitability, bleeding problems, and many other infections. |
| Herbs/spices | Curry leaf | Limited | Too much of curry leaf can cause diarrhea. |
| Herbs/spices | Ginger | Limited | Contains anti-inflammatory properties that promote overall health in parrots. |
| Herbs/spices | Gingko | Limited | Have unpleasant smell that parrots may not like. |
| Herbs/spices | Turmeric | Limited | Should be avoided if a parrot has a broken blood feather or when he's moulting. |
| Herbs/spices | Nutmeg | No | Very toxic to parrots because it contains a narcotic compound known as myristicin. Birds who consume nutmeg suffer from vomiting, nausea, and dizziness. |
| Herbs/spices | Barberry | Yes | Have a moderate antioxidant content. |
| Herbs/spices | Basil | Yes | Has incredible anti-inflammatory properties that are important for your bird's general health. |
| Herbs/spices | Bay leaf | Yes | They give a boost of flavor when added to a parrot's meal. They are also an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and iron. |
| Herbs/spices | Cardamom | Yes | Great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and iron. They also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. |
| Herbs/spices | Chives | Yes | Can be harmful if fed in excessive amounts. |
| Herbs/spices | Clove | Yes | It's a great boost for your bird's immune system since it contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. |
| Herbs/spices | Coriander (cilantro) | Yes | Has an interesting lemon-like taste and is a good source of vitamin A and C |
| Herbs/spices | Dandelion root | Yes | Contain high amounts of vitamin A, C, D, K, B-complex, protein, zinc, and magnesium. |
| Herbs/spices | Dill | Yes | Solves digestive disorders and has calming properties. |
| Herbs/spices | Fennel | Yes | Safe for parrots either cooked or raw. Parrots love the crunchy texture of fennel and the mild flavor. Fennel is also an excellent source of vitamins, fiber, and minerals. |
| Herbs/spices | Galangal | Yes | Can be eaten fresh or cooked. Contains minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. |
| Herbs/spices | Lavender | Yes | It's entirely safe for parrots, especially if it's grown organically in untreated soil. |
| Herbs/spices | Marjoram | Yes | It's linked to improved digestive health and reduced inflammation. |
| Herbs/spices | Mint | Yes | All types of mint are safe. They relax the muscle, balance metabolism, and prevent stomach upsets. Do not expose birds to mint essential oils as they are concentrated. |
| Herbs/spices | Nettle leaf | Yes | Good for your parrot's skin and aids the kidneys in easing arthritis. |
| Herbs/spices | Oregano | Yes | Have anti-inflammatory properties, which decreases the risk of diseases in parrots. |
| Herbs/spices | Parsley | Yes | Is a good source of vitamins, but contains oxalic acid, which can prevent your parrot from absorbing calcium if fed in large quantities. |
| Herbs/spices | Pepper (black or white) | Yes | Are rich in vital antioxidants. |
| Herbs/spices | Rosemary | Yes | Contains several antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds along with irons and vitamins that are very beneficial to rour bird's overall health. |
| Herbs/spices | Sage | Yes | Solves digestive disorders, supports the liver, and boosts its functionality. |
| Herbs/spices | Star anise | Yes | Very rich in vitamin C, calcium, and iron. Contains antioxidants, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, which boost parrot's immune system. |
| Herbs/spices | Tarragon | Yes | Rich in antibacterial and antioxidant properties. |
| Herbs/spices | Thyme | Yes | Rich source of vitamin C, iron, copper, and manganese. Wash thoroughly to reduce the risk of pesticides. |
| Herbs/spices | Tulsi | Yes | Contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidants properties that promote overall health in parrots. |
Insects
General remarks: Insects are sometimes eaten by parrots as part of their varied diets in the wild. Some insects are safe to feed in moderation as they are good sources of proteins.
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insects | Worms | Yes | Mealworms, in particular, are very rich in proteins. |
Meat
General remarks: Meat can be an alternative source of protein for parrots but some are against feeding of animal proteins due to processing, use of hormone injections, the amount of fat, and the way they are prepared (cooked with oil, salt, etc.). Never feed raw meat to your birds.
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meats | Meat | Depends | Chicken and turkey meat are the healthiest types of meat but need to be cooked (with no oil or seasoning) |
| Meats | Seafood | Yes | Only safe if they are free of pollutants, toxins, and heavy metals. |
Nuts
General remarks: Nuts contain excellent sources of healthy fats and other trace nutrients and minerals for your birds, but should only be fed in moderation due to the high oil content. Some parrot species, such as macaws, are more tolerant to a diet that have higher fat content, and hence can be fed more nuts than other parrots.
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nuts | Chestnuts | Depends | Some types of chestnuts may not be safe for your parrot. |
| Nuts | Kola | Depends | There some types with a more bitter taste. which parrots may not like. Kola nuts have medicinal health benefits. |
| Nuts | Almonds | Yes | They are an excellent source of nutrients, but should be fed in moderation due to high fat content. Avoid bitter almonds because they are highly toxic. |
| Nuts | Brazil nuts | Yes | They are a good source of energy and vitamins. Should be given in moderation due to their fat content. |
| Nuts | Cashew Nuts | Yes | Best when fed plain and unsalted. Salted cashewnuts maybe unsafe for your parrot. |
| Nuts | Hazelnuts | Yes | They are a good source of energy due to their unsaturated fat and protein contents. |
| Nuts | Macadamia nuts | Yes | They are perfectly safe for parrots as long as they are not salted. Feed in moderation due to too much fats. |
| Nuts | Peanuts | Yes | Avoid peanut shell because it contains aflatoxin. |
| Nuts | Pecans | Yes | Avoid chocolate or spicy coated pecans because they are toxic. The shells can also be hard, but offer the pecans wiithout cracking to strenghten your parrot's beak. |
| Nuts | Pili nuts | Yes | They are a good source of proteins, potassium, calcium, phosphorous, and antioxidants. |
| Nuts | Pine nuts | Yes | The are loaded with minerals and vitamins that promotes general health in parrots. |
| Nuts | Pistachios | Yes | Avoid the ones with additional flavors or excessively salted. |
| Nuts | Tiger nuts | Yes | Rich in magnesium, good for birds suffering from feather loss. |
| Nuts | Walnuts | Yes | Avoided salted walnuts or those with special coatings. Plain walnuts are a great source of proteins. |
Processed Food
General remarks: Most processed foods are not healthy for parrots due to high oil, salt, and sugar contents, reduction in nutrition due to processing, or simply contain toxic compounds.
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processed food | Pizza | Depends | Pizzas containing ingredients that are unsafe for birds should be avoided. |
| Processed food | Chocolate | No | They contain theobrimine and caffeine chemical compounds, which are toxic to parrots. |
| Processed food | Pretzels | No | Pretzels contain too much salt, which may upset the electrolyte and fluid balance in your parrot's body leading to excessive thirst, dehydration, and finally kidney failure. |
| Processed food | Cheerios | Yes | Avoid honey nut cheerios because they contain too much sugars. Stick to original flavour cheerios. |
| Processed food | Crackers | Yes | They don't provide any nutritional value for parrots. |
| Processed food | Peanut butter | Yes | Fully packed with nutrients, but it's best fed as a treat since it's full of additives that may not work well with your bird. |
Seeds
General remarks: Parrots are naturally seed-eating animals, so most seeds are suitable for them. However, like nuts, seeds tend to have a high fat content and should be fed sparingly in captive parrots. Seeds can be used as a motivating treat during training, or sprouted to reduce the amount of fat and increase the amount of beneficial nutrients in them.
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seeds | Canary food | Depends | Canary food often constitutes seeds. Therefore, you should feed your parrots cany food in moderation. |
| Seeds | Mustard seeds | Limited | They are not the best seeds to feed parrots. Mustard seed sprouts are better than dry ones. |
| Seeds | Chia seeds | Yes | Are an excellent source of healthy fats and proteins. |
| Seeds | Fenugreek | Yes | Contains potassium, niacin, vitamin C, and protein. Best when sprouted. |
| Seeds | Flax | Yes | Good source of essential fatty acids. It also promotes strong bones and healthy skin in parrots. |
| Seeds | Hemp | Yes | They have an ideal balance of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. |
| Seeds | Milk thistle | Yes | Good source of amino acids and also helps in inhibiting factors that are responsible for liver damage. Milk thistle is also a very strong antioxidant. |
| Seeds | Poppy | Yes | Very rich in fibre that aids in digestion. Poppy seeds also treats diarrhea. |
| Seeds | Safflower seeds | Yes | They are a good source of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that provide the necessary energy and nutrition your parrot requires. |
| Seeds | Sesame seeds | Yes | Very rich in healthy fats and proteins, but should be fed in moderation as they can lead to fatty liver diseases and obesity. |
| Seeds | Sunflower seeds | Yes | Very high in carbohydrates and fats. |
| Seeds | wild bird seed | Yes | Can be harmful if consumed on a daily basis since it contains a lot of fats. |
Vegetables
General remarks: Parrot diets should consist of a large portion of raw vegetables as they contain the healthiest mix of nutrition such as vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, fiber, and so on. Ensure that you wash vegetables thoroughly before feeding them to your parrots as many of them contain pesticides and herbicides.
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Fiddlehead | Depends | Some types of fiddleheads are safe for parrots while others are toxic. While they contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as well as vitamin C, I wouldn't really recommend fiddleheads for your bird. |
| Vegetables | Kaffir lime leaves | Depends | Technically, kaffir lime leaves are not toxic, but they may contain lots of pesticides and chemicals if they are not properly cleaned. They are only safe for parrots if they haven't been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. Besides, there's a chance your parrot may not like them. |
| Vegetables | Tomatillo | Depends | Tomatillo fruits are a great option for parrots, but tomatillo leaves and stems are highly toxic. |
| Vegetables | Garlic | Limited | Tiny amounts (nibbles) are safe. Contain sulfur compounds that may irritate your bird's crop, esophagus, and mouth. High amounts may lead to blood anemia. |
| Vegetables | Horseradish | Limited | They contain lots of mustard oil, which can be very toxic and irritating. |
| Vegetables | Leek | Limited | Tiny amounts (nibbles) are safe. Contain sulfur compounds that may irritate your bird's crop, esophagus, and mouth. High amounts may lead to blood anemia. |
| Vegetables | Lentils | Limited | They are a good source of protein and fiber but could have adverse effects if fed excessively. Cook before feeding them to your parrot to get rid of anti-nutrients such as tannins and phytic acid. |
| Vegetables | Mushrooms | Limited | Fresh mushrooms from grocery stores can be fed in small quantities. Mushrooms exposed to UV light or sunlight prior to packing are great sources of vitamin D |
| Vegetables | Onion | Limited | Tiny amounts (nibbles) are safe. Contain sulfur compounds that may irritate your bird's crop, esophagus, and mouth. High amounts may lead to blood anemia. |
| Vegetables | Onion, spring (scallions) | Limited | Tiny amounts (nibbles) are safe. Contain sulfur compounds that may irritate your bird's crop, esophagus, and mouth. High amounts may lead to blood anemia. |
| Vegetables | Rhubarb | Limited | Leaves are unsafe; stalks contain oxalic acid (not good for parrots) but are safer if cooked |
| Vegetables | Shallots | Limited | Tiny amounts (nibbles) are safe. Contain sulfur compounds that may irritate your bird's crop, esophagus, and mouth. High amounts may lead to blood anemia. |
| Vegetables | Tomato | Limited | Contains too much acid. Vines and leaves are poisonous. |
| Vegetables | Cassava (yuca, manioc) | No | Contains cyanide compound, which is very toxic to parrots. |
| Vegetables | Amaranth leaf | Yes | Is a good source of lysine and methionine. It's also rich in antioxidants which limits damages caused by free radicals in a parrot's body. |
| Vegetables | Arrowroot | Yes | Low in fats. So, it can be good for weight management. |
| Vegetables | Artichoke | Yes | Great source of vitamin C, potassium, and fibre. |
| Vegetables | Arugula | Yes | Good source of vitamin A and C, which helps maintain a healthy immune system in parrots. |
| Vegetables | Asparagus | Yes | Good source of vitamins, but it's not a natural food for parrots. Raw asparagus can be very hard to chew. |
| Vegetables | Bamboo shoot | Yes | Bamboo shoots are safe for parrots provided they have not been treated any toxic chemicals. Cook for about 20 minutes to get rid of cyanogeni glycosides compounds. |
| Vegetables | Bean, black | Yes | Black beans are only safe when cooked. Uncooked black beans contain hemagluttinin, a very toxic compound that can harm parrots. |
| Vegetables | Bean, cannellini | Yes | Be sure to completely cook cannellini beans before offering them to your parrot. Raw or undercooked cannellini beans can be extremely harmful to your parrot. |
| Vegetables | Bean, fava (broadbean) | Yes | Raw or dried beans are very toxic. They contain a poisonous compound called hemagglutinin. |
| Vegetables | Bean, garbanzo (chickpeas) | Yes | They contain high amount of zinc, manganese, iron, folate, carbohydrate, and proteins. Avoid raw garbanzo beans because they can be unhealthy and difficult to digest. Cook the chickpeas so soften the texture. |
| Vegetables | Bean, green | Yes | They are a great source of fiber and are also loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. |
| Vegetables | Bean, kidney | Yes | Make sure they are thouroughly cooked before offering them to your bird. Otherwise, they are a great way to add more proteins and fiber to your parrot's diet. |
| Vegetables | Bean, lima | Yes | They are safe as long as they are cooked well before offering to parrots. |
| Vegetables | Bean, mung | Yes | Ther are not safe when eaten dry. You can sprout mung beans for three to four days before feeding them to your parrot. |
| Vegetables | Bean, pinto | Yes | Cook or sprout pinto beans before offering them to your parrot. |
| Vegetables | Bean, red (adzuki) | Yes | Cooked red beans are safe for parrots. Raw, dry red beans can possibly ham your parrot because they contain a very toxic compound known as hemagglutinin. |
| Vegetables | Bean, soy (edamame) | Yes | It's a good source of proteins and amino acids. Cook well before serving them to yor parrot. |
| Vegetables | Beet (beetroot) | Yes | A great source of vitamins and minerals. Great for regulating blood pressure and preventing inflammations. |
| Vegetables | Bell peppers (capsicum) | Yes | An excellent source of vitamin C. |
| Vegetables | Bitter melon (bittergourd) | Yes | Excellent source of vitamin C, which pays a major role in parrot's immune system. |
| Vegetables | Bok Choy (pak choi) | Yes | It's an excellent source of calcium which helps maintain muscle health and bone density in parrots. |
| Vegetables | Broccoli | Yes | Wash it well if you're feeding raw. |
| Vegetables | Brussel sprout | Yes | Very rich in antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids. |
| Vegetables | Burdock root | Yes | Source of inulin and fibre that aids digestion in parrots. |
| Vegetables | Cabbage, green | Yes | Contains oxalic acid, which doesn't cause a problem unless your parrot is calcium deficient. |
| Vegetables | Cabbage, red | Yes | A good source of vitamin K, calcium, zinc, and magnesium. |
| Vegetables | Carrot | Yes | An excellent source of vitamin A. |
| Vegetables | Cauliflower | Yes | Is a good source of vitamins, antioxidants, magnesium, phosphorous, and fibre. Apll parts can be consumed including the leaves. |
| Vegetables | Celery | Yes | Feed only in moderation. Remove the stringy parts to prevent constipation and crop compaction. |
| Vegetables | Celery root | Yes | It's a good source of vitamin B-complex, vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants which combats inflammation in parrots. |
| Vegetables | Chicory (Curly Endive) | Yes | Parrots can eat all types of endives. The curly endive has a good amount of vitamin K and is also a low-calorie vegetable. |
| Vegetables | Chilli peppers | Yes | Too much chilli pepper can cause sensitivity or digestive issues. |
| Vegetables | Collard | Yes | Contain lots of vitamins, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties which are essential for keeping parrots healthy. |
| Vegetables | Corn | Yes | Corn is very rich in vitamin C and fibre. However, they are high in starch, can spike blood sugar and cause excess weight in parrots. |
| Vegetables | Cucumber | Yes | Fresh cucumbers are ok. Do not feed pickled ones. |
| Vegetables | Daikon (Japanese radish) | Yes | Good source of antioxidants, calcium, and potassium. Best when fed along with other vegetables like kales, endive, carrots, broccoli, and many others. |
| Vegetables | Dandelion greens | Yes | Wash well to remove dirt. Parrots love their bitter taste and they are also a good source of vitamin A, B1, and C. |
| Vegetables | Eggplant (brinjal, aubergine) | Yes | Eggplant can be bitter because it contains solanine, but it's high in folic acid, which is responsible for processing amino acids and proteins. Avoid eggplant leaves because they are very toxic. |
| Vegetables | Endives | Yes | Parrots can eat all types of endives. Endives are also safe for parrots and they are very important vegetables for your parrot's diet. They contain more vitamin K than most vegetables. |
| Vegetables | Fennel | Yes | They are very safe for parrots and can be served either cooked or raw. Fennels are a good source of vitamin C which is critical for the immune health of parrots. |
| Vegetables | Jicama | Yes | Excellent source of vitamins and starch. Remove the jicama's skin if it's not organic. |
| Vegetables | Kale | Yes | Good source of vitamins and minerals. |
| Vegetables | Lemongrass | Yes | Contains components that are responsible for relieving pain and swelling as well as improving cholesterol level in blood. |
| Vegetables | Lettuce, batavia | Yes | Excellent choice of lettuce for your parrot. It's a good source of vitamin A, calcium, vitamin K, and vitamin C. It's low in fats and calories. |
| Vegetables | Lettuce, iceberg | Yes | Little nutritional value, so should be given in moderation. |
| Vegetables | Lettuce, leaf | Yes | Wash well to get rid of pesticides and other chemicals. |
| Vegetables | Lettuce, red | Yes | Very rich in vitamin K, but should be fed in moderation. |
| Vegetables | Lotus root | Yes | Good source of vitamins and minerals. |
| Vegetables | Mustard greens | Yes | Good source of vitamins. They also rejuvenate parrot skin and relaxes nervous birds. |
| Vegetables | Okra (ladyfinger) | Yes | It's a good source of vitamin A, K1, C, and antioxidants. They help regulate blood sugar and promote a healthy heart. |
| Vegetables | Pandan | Yes | Parrots absolutely love its fragrance. You can buy pandan for your parrots to play with. Pandan leaves also emit a very nice smell when shredded. |
| Vegetables | Parsnip | Yes | Contains lots of antioxidants and vitamin C that boost the immune system of parrots. |
| Vegetables | Pea, black-eyed | Yes | It's an excellent dietary constituent. they contain many nutrients such as proteins, vitamin A, and manganese. However, they should be cooked well before feeding them to your parrots. |
| Vegetables | Pea, sweet | Yes | Contains an intense flavor that most parrots love. |
| Vegetables | Peas, green | Yes | Sprouted peas are far more nutritious than raw or cooked ones. Green peas are a great source of proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. Feed green peas in moderation. |
| Vegetables | Peas, snow | Yes | Parrots enjoy eating snow peas because of their crunchy texture. They are a good source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and fiber. They can be cooked or boiled to soften their texture, but parrots love them raw. |
| Vegetables | Peas, sugar snap | Yes | They provide a satisfying crunch and an intense flavor that most parrots enjoy since they can be eaten raw. |
| Vegetables | Potato | Yes | Avoid uncooked potatoes, french fries (salted and oily), and potato peels. |
| Vegetables | Potato, sweet | Yes | Rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, fibre, manganese, and antioxidants. Can be offered raw or steamed. |
| Vegetables | Pumpkin | Yes | Rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, but it should be fed in moderation. |
| Vegetables | Radish | Yes | Very rich in calcium, which promotes healthy and strong bones in parrots |
| Vegetables | Spinach | Yes | Good source of vitamins and antioxidants, but should be fed in moderation. |
| Vegetables | Squash, butternut | Yes | It's filled with lots of nutrients and minerals, making it a superfood for parrots. Make sure you cut into chunks that your parrot can handle. |
| Vegetables | Swiss chard | Yes | It's an excellent food option for parrots. It's a great source of calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. |
| Vegetables | Turnip | Yes | Ensure it's washed thoroughly before feeding it to your bird. |
| Vegetables | Watercress | Yes | Excellent source of calcium, which is essential for healthy feathers and strong bones in parrots. |
| Vegetables | Yam | Yes | Yams are very safe for parrots so long as you don't add anything like butter or salt. They are an excellent source of vitamin A. |
| Vegetables | Zucchini (courgette) | Yes | It's very healthy for birds. Give your parrot raw or steamed zucchini so that he can get most of the nutrients. |
Miscellaneous
| CATEGORY | FOOD ITEM | Is it Safe for Parrots? | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miscellaneous | Honey | Depends | Honey habors bacteria and grows mold, which could harm your bird's health. Bees also concentrate herbicides and pesticides in their honey, making it not suitable for parrot consumption. |
| Miscellaneous | Spicy food | Depends | Parrots love spicy food more than even humans. However, some spices may not be safe for them. For example, cassia/Chinese cinnamon, which contains high levels of coumarin is very toxic to parrots and can cause liver damage. |
| Miscellaneous | Aloe vera | Yes | It promotes healthier liver functions. Avoid aloe vera leaves and sap because they contain a compound known as aloin that can cause intestinal irritations. |
| Miscellaneous | Grass | Yes | Helps an overweight parrot get back in shape because it plays a role in regenerating and detoxifying the liver. |
