The Complete Parrot Diet Guide: What Parrots Can and Can’t Eat

A healthy diet is the foundation of a long, happy life for your parrot. The right foods keep feathers glossy, beaks strong, and minds sharp. But with so much conflicting advice online, many new and experienced owners alike ask the same question: what exactly can parrots eat, and what should they avoid?

This complete parrot diet guide will walk you through the essentials of feeding your feathered friend, helping you build a balanced diet that promotes both health and happiness.

What Parrots Can Eat

Parrots thrive on a varied diet. In the wild, they forage for fruits, seeds, nuts, and vegetation. A balanced pet diet should mirror this variety as closely as possible.

• Fresh Fruits & Vegetables – Apples, carrots, broccoli, leafy greens, mango, berries, and peppers are excellent. Always wash produce thoroughly and cut into manageable pieces.

• Seeds & Nuts (in moderation) – Seeds and nuts are energy-dense, so they should be offered as treats or training rewards rather than the bulk of the diet. Almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds are favourites.

• Pelleted Diets – High-quality pellets provide essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring your parrot gets balanced nutrition.

• Whole Grains & Legumes – Cooked brown rice, quinoa, lentils, and chickpeas add protein and fibre.

• Herbs & Safe Plants – Parsley, basil, dandelion leaves, and rosemary can be enriching and healthy additions.

Foods Parrots Should Avoid

Not all human food is safe for parrots, and some items can be toxic or even fatal.

• Avocado – Contains persin, which is highly toxic to birds.

• Chocolate & Caffeine – Dangerous stimulants that can affect a parrot’s heart and nervous system.

• Alcohol & Sugary Foods – Harmful to their liver and overall health.

• Onions & Garlic – Can cause digestive issues and blood-related problems.

• Salt & Fatty Foods – Chips, processed meats, and salty snacks should never be offered.

• Fruit Seeds & Pits – Apple seeds, cherry pits, and peach stones contain cyanide compounds.

Creating a Balanced Diet for Your Parrot

The key to a healthy parrot diet is balance and variety. A general rule of thumb is:

• Around 60–70% pellets as the main food source.

• 20–25% fresh fruit and vegetables offered daily.

• 5–10% nuts, seeds, and healthy treats for training and enrichment.

Rotating foods, changing textures, and introducing safe foraging opportunities will also keep your bird mentally stimulated and less prone to boredom eating.

Tips for Feeding Your Parrot

• Wash food bowls daily to prevent bacteria build-up.

• Introduce new foods gradually—parrots can be suspicious of change.

• Observe your parrot’s droppings and energy levels as indicators of dietary health.

• Offer fresh water daily and avoid flavoured or carbonated drinks.

Feeding your parrot the right diet is one of the most important responsibilities of bird ownership. By offering a variety of pellets, fruits, vegetables, grains, and safe treats, while avoiding toxic foods, you’ll give your parrot the nutrition it needs to thrive.

A healthy diet leads to a longer life, brighter feathers, and a more active, engaged companion. Remember: what you put in their bowl today shapes the quality of their tomorrow.