Types

• There are a variety of food options in the pet industry for parrots of all types. The most common diet among bird owners is the seed diet. Commercially prepared seed mixes offer the parrot variety and balanced nutrition.
  
  A pellet diet is increasing in popularity for parrot owners. The small nuggets are specially formulated to give a parrot optimum nutrition, and are argued to be more healthy than a seed diet. And, unlike a seed diet, pellets have no waste. The entire piece of pellet food is digestible. A seed diet leaves seed hulls behind.
  
  Some pet owners opt for a fresh, homemade diet. For a parrot this consists of a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, pasta and vitamin/mineral supplements. A natural diet can give the parrot more variety, and be much appreciated. But, to maintain its nutritional integrity, a veterinarian should approve of the mix to ensure the parrot is getting all the essential vitamins and nutrients he needs.
  
  

Identification

• Parrot food is sold at larger pet stores and online. Bags of seed or pellets will be available in the avian section. Some stores offer bulk bins where customers can scoop out the exact quantity of food they desire. Watch for fresh pellet and seed foods in bulk bins that are free of larvae or bugs.
  
  

Size

• When selecting parrot food for your pet, be sure to pick size-appropriate mixes. For a small parrot, such as a cockatiel, conure or quaker, choose smaller seeds and foods. The largest food items you should offer these smaller varieties of parrots would include sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and raisins. A whole peanut in the shell may also be offered, with supervision.
  
  Larger parrots, such as cockatoos, macaws and African greys can eat larger food items. Nuts as large as a whole almond in the shell are a favorite treat. Large chunks of banana, broccoli and baby carrots are also good treats.
  
  

Features

• Look for parrot foods that have added nutrition. Extra calcium, vitamins and minerals are good options. Offer parrots cuttle bones and mineral blocks for bone and beak health.
  
  

Benefits

• Offering your parrot a balanced, nutritious diet will make him healthier. Bright, smooth feathers, a well-formed stool, a smooth, solid beak and clear, bright eyes are all signs of good health.