6 Most Common Australian Natives that are Bird Safe

Australian native plants are excellent additions to a parrot’s environment, offering natural enrichment that stimulates their senses and encourages healthy behaviours. Chewing, foraging, and playing with plants are instinctive activities for parrots, making it essential to introduce safe and bird-friendly species. This guide will explore the best Australian native plants for parrots and how to incorporate them safely into their cage or aviaries.

 Grevillea

Grevilleas are a great choice for parrot owners, offering non-toxic flowers and branches that provide natural foraging opportunities. Parrots can safely chew on the branches and nibble on the vibrant flowers, while nectar-eating species like lorikeets particularly enjoy the sweet nectar. As with any plant, it's essential to ensure that the flowers are free from pesticides before introducing them to your parrot’s environment to keep them safe and healthy.

Bottlebrush (Callistemon)

Bottlebrush plants are a fantastic option for parrots, with their vibrant flowers that parrots find irresistible and strong branches perfect for perching and chewing. The flowers provide natural enrichment, stimulating both curiosity, play and make for a great treat for nectar eaters like lorikeets. 

Paperbark (Melaleuca)

Paperbark trees are perfect for parrots, with their soft, peeling bark that’s non-toxic and ideal for shredding. Parrots love to peel and chew the bark, mimicking their natural foraging behaviors in the wild. Just be sure to check the bark for any signs of mold, especially if you’re in a humid area, to keep it safe for your feathered friend. The nectar flowers from the Paperbark trees are also a great bird safe treat, especially for Lorikeets.

Banksia

Banksia plants are a fantastic choice for parrots, with their distinctive seed pods offering plenty of foraging fun. Parrots love chewing on these tough pods, which last a long time in cages or aviaries, providing ongoing engagement. The natural texture keeps parrots busy and mentally stimulated, making them a great addition to their environment. The Banksia flowers are also a great bird safe treat, especially for Lorikeets. 

Gumtree (Eucalyptus)

Gumtrees, or eucalyptus trees, are a fantastic addition to your birds cage or aviary. The smooth bark is safe for parrots to chew on and provides a satisfying texture for them to peel and shred. Parrots also love the gumnuts, which are perfect for nibbling and add an exciting foraging opportunity. These elements not only keep parrots engaged but also mimic their natural behaviors in the wild. Additionally, the eucalyptus oils in the leaves offer an extra sensory benefit not only for your birds, but for us too! Just ensure the gumtree materials you provide are fresh and free from pesticides to keep your feathered friend safe and healthy!

 

Ironbark (Eucalyptus)

Ironbark leaves and bark are excellent for parrot enrichment, as parrots enjoy chewing on them, while the natural oils offer beneficial properties. Ironbark branches, bark, and leaves serve as perfect perches, chewing materials, and toys, keeping your feathered friend engaged. The strong scent of eucalyptus also provides sensory stimulation. Just be sure to use fresh branches that are free from chemicals to keep your parrot safe and healthy.

Benefits of using Native Trees

Native trees are an excellent way to mimic the natural environment for your birds, offering vital enrichment through foraging, chewing, and exploration. Many native plants, such as Banksia and Gumtree, provide natural seeds and pods that encourage parrots to engage in their instinctual foraging behavior. Parrots are natural chewers, and the leaves, bark, and branches of these plants are safe, non-toxic materials that promote healthy beaks while satisfying their chewing instincts. Additionally, the varied textures, colors, and scents of these plants provide mental stimulation, keeping parrots engaged and curious about their surroundings.

Quick Tip with Nectar Flowers

Misting the flowers of a bottlebrush before giving them to your parrot not only cleans off any dust or residues but also enhances their natural scent and texture, making them even more appealing and refreshing for your bird to explore and nibble on! Note you can do this with other nectar flowers like Grevilleas.