Bird Diet Calculator
Enter a species to get a recommended diet plan for your bird.
Diet chart for Pet Birds
A proper diet is the most important part of keeping your pet bird healthy. While specific needs vary, here is a general diet chart for popular pet birds to help you get started.
| Bird Species | Primary Diet (Percentage) | Key Supplements |
|---|---|---|
| Budgerigar (Budgie) | Pellets (50%) | Veggies, limited seeds/fruits |
| Cockatiel | Pellets (60%) | Veggies, some seeds |
| Lovebird | Pellets (60%) | Chopped vegetables and greens |
| African Grey Parrot | Pellets (50%) | Calcium-rich veggies, healthy nuts |
| Macaw | Pellets (50%) | Nuts in shell, fresh vegetables |
| Cockatoo | Low-Fat Pellets (50%) | Lots of vegetables, minimal fruit/nuts |
| Sun Conure | Pellets (60%) | Colorful veggies (Vitamin A) |
| Zebra Finch | Finch Seed Mix (50%) | Crushed pellets, finely chopped greens |
| Canary | Seed/Pellet Mix (70%) | Greens, egg food |
| Rainbow Lorikeet | Commercial Nectar (80%) | Soft fruits, edible flowers |
| Indian Ringneck | Pellets (50%) | Veggies, fruits, some grains |
| Quaker Parrot | Pellets (60%) | Vegetables, limited fruit |
| Eclectus Parrot | Pellets (40%) | High amounts of fresh veggies & fruits |
| Parrotlet | Pellets (60%) | Chopped veggies, sprouted seeds |
| Chicken | Layer Feed (80%) | Foraged greens, safe kitchen scraps |
Healthy Pet Diet Tips
- Fresh Water is Key: Always have clean, fresh water available. Change it at least once a day.
- Variety is the Spice of Life: Offer a mix of different bird-safe vegetables and fruits to provide a range of nutrients.
- Limit Seeds for Parrots: For most parrot species, seeds are like junk food—high in fat and low in essential vitamins. Use them as occasional treats, not the main meal.
- Avoid Human Food: Many human foods are toxic to birds, including avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and salty snacks. Stick to foods you know are safe.
- Observe Your Bird: Pay attention to your bird's droppings, energy level, and feather condition. These are all indicators of their overall health and can tell you if their diet is working.
How to make a pet’s diet balanced
Creating a balanced diet for your pet bird means moving beyond a simple bowl of seeds. A truly healthy diet is built on a foundation of different food types that work together to provide complete nutrition.
Think of it like building a pyramid:
- The Base (50-60%): Formulated Pellets. High-quality commercial pellets are scientifically designed to provide most of the vitamins and minerals your bird needs. This should be the biggest part of their diet.
- The Middle (20-30%): Fresh Vegetables. Dark leafy greens like kale and spinach, along with colorful veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes, are packed with essential vitamins.
- The Top (10-20%): Fruits, Seeds, and Nuts. This is the treat section. Fruits provide antioxidants, while nuts and seeds offer healthy fats. Because they are high in sugar or fat, they should be given in small amounts.
By combining these elements, you ensure your bird gets the right balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, and micronutrients to live a long, healthy, and happy life.