There is a wide selection of bird foods that you can purchase from your local pet store. However, many novice bird owners often ask themselves, “can birds eat human food?”
Learning what birds can eat is a very important aspect of bird care. This greatly affects their overall health and well-being.
Learn about what types of bird foods these pets can eat and what is off-limits to our feathered friends.
Fruits, Veggies, Seeds and Nuts
Birds such as sapsuckers, orioles, and mockingbirds love the taste of fruits. Consider adding some apples, berries, raisins, pears, oranges, or watermelon pieces to your bird’s food dish.
There are lots of vegetables and legumes that are excellent sources of nutrition for your pet bird. You can serve these raw or cooked.
A variety of seeds and nuts is a major part of every bird’s diet. Peanuts, sunflower seeds, millet, and even popped popcorn can be enjoyed by your pet.
Avoid excess salt intake by choosing unsalted snacks for your pet.
Feeding Birds Bread and Meat
Pieces of plain bread can make for a great occasional snack for birds. This can include plain white or wheat bread, and also corn bread.
Do not give your birds any bread that is molding. This can be dangerous to some species of birds.
Certain bird species enjoy eating meat, such as bacon or beef kidney fat.
This type of food is particularly great for the winter months as the cold temperatures help to preserve the food.
Can Birds Eat Human Food? Not These Foods
There is also a list of human foods that birds cannot eat. Feeding your bird these foods may cause health problems and can even be fatal.
To avoid hazardous health problems in your pet, do not feed your pet bird the following human foods:
- Chocolate
- Apple Seeds
- Avocado
- Onions
- Alcohol
- Mushrooms
- Tomato Leaves
- Salt
- Caffeine
- Dried Beans
If your bird eats any of these harmful foods, you may need to contact your veterinarian if he starts showing symptoms of illness.
So, Can Birds Eat Human Food?
In conclusion, yes. Birds can eat human food, but with a few exceptions.
Birds should be offered fresh food all day in an easy to access food bowl. Your bird will need a variety of pellets, seed, and fresh foods.
Pellets and seeds can be left in the cage for the entire day. However, fresh foods, such as meats, fruits, and veggies, spoil quickly. Remove those foods from the cage within a hour or two.
Your pet bird should also have a constant supply of fresh water. If the bird has a medical condition that calls for it, or if the bird is pregnant, calcium supplements should also be offered to the bird.
Always ask your veterinarian if you are concerned or have questions about your bird’s health.
