Seeds form an important part of a parrot's diet, providing essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to maintain their overall health. However, not all seeds are created equal, and it is important to choose a balanced mix of high-quality seeds that meet the specific dietary needs of your pet bird. A diet that is rich in a variety of seeds can provide a source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, which helps with digestion and can prevent common health issues such as obesity, liver disease, and feather plucking. Additionally, providing a variety of different seeds can help to prevent boredom, as well as to encourage natural foraging behaviors. However, it is important to note that some seeds can be toxic to parrots, such as avocado and apple seeds, and it is essential to limit the quantity of sunflower seeds, which are high in fat, in a pet bird's diet. To ensure that your pet parrot stays healthy, it is essential to provide a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutritious foods, and to consult with an avian veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of seeds for your specific bird.
Organic, clean and fresh seed that is fit for human consumption is ideal for parrot diets, similar to formulated parrot mixes. To determine the quality and freshness of the seeds or seed mixes, one can conduct a simple test by leaving a small amount of the seeds on soaked cotton wool. Within a couple of days, the seeds should sprout, indicating their freshness. If the seeds do not sprout, they are most likely old and have lost much of their nutritional value. Some parrot seed mixes may also contain dried fruit and vegetables in addition to seed. As long as these mixes are of high quality and organic, they can be an acceptable option. However, fresh food should not be neglected and these seed mixes should not be relied on as the sole source of a balanced diet for parrots.
When creating a custom seed blend, use these guidelines to ensure safe and suitable seeds for your specific parrot species.
Barley Seeds
Barley Seeds contain Vitamin B1, B6, B3, Folate, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Manganese and Iron.
Buckwheat Seeds
Buckwheat Seeds contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B6, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Manganese, Copper, Iron, Fiber, Protein and Antioxidants.
Canary Seeds
Canary Seeds contain Protein, Fat, Fiber, Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron and Vitamin E.
Chia Seeds
Chia Seeds Contain Fiber, Protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, Antioxidants, Minerals Excellent source of Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese and Phosphorus
Flaxseeds (ground)
Flax Seeds contain Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Dietary Fiber, Antioxidants
Vitamins B1, E & B6, Minerals Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus and Copper
Hemp Seeds
Hemp Seeds contain Vitamin E, Vitamin B1 (Thiamin), Vitamin B6, Vitamins B3, Omega-3, Omega-6, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Iron, Zinc, Manganese, Fiber and Protein
Hulled Oats
Hulled Oats contains Vitamin B1 (Thiamin), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid), Vitamin B6, Vitamin E, Folate (B9), Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc, Manganese, Selenium
Millet (Red, White, Yellow)
Millet contains Thiamin (B1), Niacin (B3), Vitamin B6, Folate (B9), Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Manganese, Selenium
Pepita (Pumpkin) Seeds
Pepita Seeds (Pumpkin Seeds) contain Vitamins A, E & K, Minerals Zinc, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Copper, Manganese and Monounsaturated fatty acids
Quinoa Seeds (Soaked First)
Quinoa Seeds (Soak first) contains B Vitamins such as Thiamine, Riboflavin & Niacin, Minerals Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Protein
Safflower Seeds
Seasame Seeds
Seasame Seeds contains Vitamin B1 (Thiamin), Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin E, Calcium, Iron, Copper, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Zinc, Protein, Healthy fats and Fiber
Grey Sunflower Seeds
Grey Sunflower seeds contain Vitamin E, B, B3, B6, Minerals, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc & Folate
