Parro’Talks Nutrition - Fresh Produce
The “Yummy” Needs”
As I mentioned in my previous article about food pellets, vegetables and fruits should make up the rest of your parrot’s diet. Vitamin A is going to be one of the most important things for your bird to receive on a regular basis. Carrots offer the most Vitamin A, which is a great thing, since most birds love them! You’ll also find that dandelion greens, jalapenos (don’t worry, birds don’t taste spicy foods the same way we do), and kale all contain Vitamin A, but carrots by far have the most. So, feed your parrot carrots!
The “Woah” Buffet
Also, just because it doesn’t contain Vitamin A doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give it to your bird. I prefer treating my guy, Time, with a “parrot salad” twice daily, which can include apples (no seeds), oranges and tangerines (no seeds), Brussel’s sprouts, broccoli, cherries (no pits), strawberries, corn on the cob, sugar snap peas, carrots, squash, peppers, zucchini, blueberries, mango, cantaloupe, pineapple, bananas, and pears (depending on what’s on sale, available and in season). Generally, vegetables are better for your bird, but parrots tend to enjoy eating fruit more. It’s up to you to find the right balance. ( I shall share a list of forbidden foods soon; probably in the next article, stay tuned!)
The “Oops” Foods
Finally, stay away from dried fruit and vegetables, ESPECIALLY dried fruit. The reason for this is that although it contains the same vitamins and minerals as normal fruit, they tend to be much higher in sugar content as part of the dehydration process, which is not going to be good for your parrot. Stick with regular fruit in moderation!
Feel free to reach out if you’ve any queries, suggestions or tips that you’d like to share!
