Feeding Caged Birds

The exact nutritional requirements of caged birds are unknown, in spite of claims to the contrary by some product manufacturers, retailers and breeders. Far too much emphasis has been placed on seed and nut diets for caged birds. They represent a relatively nonperishable convenience for bird owners but are a deficient diet for pet birds, especially the larger hookbills.

Such diets are excessively rich in oils, extremely deficient in certain vitamins (notably vitamin A), and have an unacceptable calcium to phosphorus ratio. Furthermore, recent research has shown that the high oil content of these food items confers an addictive quality on them. Whenever possible, fruit juice (apple juice is a good starter) should be substituted for the drinking water. This may not be a practical suggestion for birds that habitually bathe in their drinking water.

Feeding Larger Caged Birds (e.g. parrots, cockatoos, macaws)

Seeds and seed mixes should not constitute more than 20% of what your bird consumes daily. 80-100% of the daily diet should be comprised of foodstuffs that you can easily find in the average family home.

Animal Protein Sources
Cooked meat (red meat, poultry, fish, etc.), dog/cat kibble, cooked eggs yolk and white, cheese, cultured milk products (cottage cheese, yogurt, etc.).

Whole Grain Products
Dry cereals, cooked cereals, rice, uncooked oatmeal, granola, breads (whole wheat in particular), muffins, pasta (cooked or uncooked), crackers.

Nuts
In moderation (nuts are rich in oils and fats).

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