Question by Small Business Man: what food besides bird seed can I feed my African Grey parrot?
I have been trying to feed him greens, different kinds, he just doesn’t like them. I also tried some banana, apple, kiwi, carrots, plums and blueberries. What he does like are grapes but I was told he can’t have too many in a day. He loves macaroni, cooked macaroni that I chop up in small pieces. Also loves peanuts and almonds.
I just don’t know what else to try. I also want stuff that I can make a lot of so I can put some away in the refrigerator so when I feed him I just take some out of there and not have to make some every time I feed him.
Any ideas for food? Snacks?
Best answer:
Answer by Tracey
The dietary needs of parrots, including African Greys, are very specific and somewhat complex. When you look up how long an African Grey will live you will often see between 40 and 70 years – a huge difference – and the reason for the extra 30 year of life is DIET!! It’s obvious that you care about your bird a great deal and I’m so, so glad you’re asking about what to feed him…bravo!!
First, seeds are very high in fat and while parrots generally love them – the way kids love candy – they should be given in small amounts in moderation.
You’re on the right track with the fresh fruits and vegetables! Keep in mind that fruits have lots of sugar, so you want to give those in moderate, small amounts as well, but he needs fresh vegetables every day.
Experts are finding that formulated, pelleted diets are not ideal anymore, but for less experienced pet owners, a pellet mix is still a good option. As I said before, parrot diets are very complex and it takes a lot of time and research to get a good handle on what to feed and how much. I, for instance, do not rely on a pellet diet, but I recommend them to average owners, as do Avian vets.
1. Pellets: this should be the base of his diet, about 60% of his daily diet.
2. Vegetables: like leafy greens, zucchini, tomato, squash, green beans, peppers (they typically love spicy peppers!, also all colors of bell peppers), sprouts, etc. This should be the largest portion of the fresh foods they receive.
3. Fruit: apples, grapes, banana, papaya, berries, etc. Avoid overly ripe fruit as it contains more sugar and give small amounts of fruit. Remember: NO apple seeds!
4. Grains: whole grain pasta, rice, breads.
5. Protein: like eggs, well cooked chicken and meat. Give these things only once or twice per week.
6. Dairy: you can give small amounts of dairy such as cheese, but if you do, give very small amounts only occasionally.
7. Nuts: parrots typically love all kinds of nuts and these can be given to Greys – again, in moderation. It’s perfectly fine to give a nut treat every day, but not TEN nut treats. Peanuts are not a good choice and should be given rarely as they are high in fat, but also because they are prone to growing a mold on the shells that is hard to detect and is toxic.
8. Seeds: they also love seeds, but as with fruits and nuts, seeds should be given in moderate, small amounts. They are high in fat.
Now, knowing what he should eat and getting him to eat it are two entirely different things! He will always choose his favorite foods first and may snub his beak at the foods that are good for him – but keep giving them to him! If he really gives you trouble, there are things you can do to help him transition to a healthier diet. I will post some links to some good parrot websites for you to refer to.
Patience is key with parrots, so hang in there! He’ll get used to eating all those healthy foods and you’ll be rewarded with a healthy bird that will outlive you!!
Best wishes!
www.parrots.org
www.parrotparrot.com
www.birdtricks.com
What do you think? Answer below!
Tags:African, besides, bird, feed., food, Grey, Parrot, seed
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