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Feeding

Feeding pet parrots properly is one of the most important parts of responsible ownership in the UK. A balanced diet supports healthy feathers, strong immunity, good behaviour, and a long lifespan. Whether you share your home with a budgie or a large macaw, understanding nutritional needs will help you choose the right foods — and confidently select suitable products to stock or recommend.

Below is a comprehensive guide to feeding pet parrots, plus some handy links to our favourite brands on Amazon UK .

 

Understanding a Parrot’s Natural Diet

Parrots are not “seed-only” birds. In the wild, species such as the African Grey Parrot, Blue-and-yellow Macaw, and Budgerigar consume a varied diet that includes:

  • Seeds (seasonally)

  • Nuts

  • Fruits

  • Vegetation

  • Blossoms

  • Occasionally insects

Pet parrots require similar variety — but in carefully balanced proportions.

 

The Ideal Diet Breakdown for Pet Parrots in the UK

 

Most UK avian vets recommend the following approximate balance:

 

1. High-Quality Pellets (50–70%)

Pellets should form the foundation of a parrot’s diet. Unlike seed mixes, pellets are nutritionally balanced, reducing the risk of vitamin deficiencies.

Look for:

  • No artificial colours

  • No added sugar

  • Species-specific formulations

  • Reputable avian brands

Pellets are especially important for indoor parrots in the UK climate, where natural foraging variety is limited

We Like Harrison's High Potency Mix and Versele Laga Prestige Parrots

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2. Fresh Vegetables (20–30%)

Vegetables are essential and should be offered daily.

Excellent options include:

  • Carrots

  • Broccoli

  • Kale

  • Spinach (in moderation)

  • Peppers

  • Courgette

  • Sweet potato

Dark leafy greens are particularly valuable for calcium and vitamin A.

 

3. Fruit (5–10%)

Fruit should be fed in moderation due to natural sugars.

Suitable fruits:

  • Apples (no seeds)

  • Pears

  • Blueberries

  • Mango

  • Pomegranate

  • Grapes (occasionally)

 

4. Seeds and Nuts (Treat or Supplement)

Seeds should not be the primary diet for most parrots.

While species like the Cockatiel and Lovebird naturally eat more seed than larger parrots, commercial seed mixes are often too high in fat. Although some manufacturers do have lighter versions such as Parrot Essentials Tidy Mix and Johnston and Jeff's Low Sunflower Blend

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Offer:

  • Sunflower seeds (limited)

  • Pumpkin seeds

  • Safflower seeds

  • Almonds

  • Walnuts

Use seeds mainly for:

  • Training rewards

  • Enrichment toys

  • Occasional treats

Species-Specific Feeding Considerations

Different parrots have slightly different needs:

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Budgies & Small Parakeets

Small parrots such as the Budgerigar require:

African Greys

The African Grey Parrot is prone to calcium deficiency. Include:

 

Macaws

Large parrots like the Blue-and-yellow Macaw require:

Foods to Avoid

Some foods are toxic or dangerous to parrots:

  • Avocado

  • Chocolate

  • Caffeine

  • Alcohol

  • Onion and garlic

  • Fruit seeds and apple pips

  • High-salt processed foods

These should never be included in any feeding plan.

 

Feeding Practicalities

 

Sourcing Safe Produce

In the UK, most supermarket vegetables are safe when:

  • Thoroughly washed

  • Organic where possible

  • Free from mould

Avoid offering garden plants unless you are certain they are bird-safe.

 

Storage Tips for Parrot Food

The UK’s damp climate can cause mould growth in seed mixes and pellets.

To prevent spoilage:

  • Store food in airtight containers

  • Keep in a cool, dry cupboard

  • Avoid buying oversized bags unless you have multiple birds

  • Check regularly for moths or damp

 

Enrichment Through Feeding

Feeding is not just nutrition — it is behavioural enrichment.

Consider:

  • Foraging toys

  • Puzzle feeders

  • Hanging vegetable skewers

  • Sprouting seeds for added nutrition

Parrots are intelligent and require mental stimulation during feeding.

 

Transitioning from Seed to Pellets

Many UK parrots are raised on seed-only diets. Transition gradually:

  1. Mix small amounts of pellets into current seed.

  2. Slowly increase pellet ratio over several weeks.

  3. Offer pellets first thing in the morning when birds are hungriest.

  4. Never allow a bird to go without food during transition.

Patience is key.

 

Parrot Supplements: Are They Necessary?

If feeding:

  • High-quality pellets

  • Daily vegetables

  • Moderate fruit

Additional vitamin supplements are usually unnecessary and may even cause overdose.

However, always consult a qualified avian vet if unsure.

 

Common Parrot Feeding Mistakes 

  • Feeding supermarket wild bird seed mixes

  • Over-reliance on sunflower seeds

  • Offering too much fruit

  • Leaving fresh food in cage too long

  • Not weighing the bird regularly

Regular weight checks (weekly) help detect health problems early.

 

Final Thoughts

Feeding pet parrots in the UK requires balance, variety, and quality products. A diet based primarily on pellets, supported by fresh vegetables and limited treats, will help ensure:

  • Vibrant feathers

  • Strong immune function

  • Healthy weight

  • Longer lifespan

Whether you care for a Budgerigar, a Cockatiel, or a majestic Blue-and-yellow Macaw, investing in proper nutrition is one of the most impactful decisions you can make as an owner.

A well-fed parrot is a healthy, happy, and long-lived companion.

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