Parakeets are omnivores/granivores primarily, implying that they thrive majorly on seeds and grains. They are ground feeders in their wild habitat, feeding on the savannah, forest floor, seeding grasses, and digging on food items.
They also eat flowers, nectar, larvae, worms, insects, buds, and tree seeds. Parakeets eat fruits, while some are good for them, others are prohibited.
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What Fruits Can Parakeet Eat?
In their wild habitat, parakeets eat fruits in small amounts. They majorly eat wild berries. As a pet, some of the recommended fruits can be sparingly given to a parakeet as a perk.
While fruits are a great addition as a source of minerals like magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A, C, K along with good nutrition, only some fruits are allowed for a parakeet.
They are best eaten in tiny and small quantities.
Some fruits recommended for a parakeet:
- Apples
- Bananas
- Figs (minimal quantities)
- Soaked/Dried apricots
- Cherries
- Grapefruit
- Kiwi
- Grapes
- Lemons
- All varieties of melon
- Pear
- Mango
- Nectarines
- Persimmons
- Passion fruit
- Pineapple
- Oranges
- Papaya
- Strawberries
- Plums
- Pomegranate seeds
- Raspberries
- Raisins
- Tangerines
- Tomato
Can Parakeets Eat Avocado?
No, Parakeets cannot eat Avocado. They are toxic to them, mainly fruits skin, and pit.
The flesh also is not recommended due to the presence of a toxin called persin. It can impact the digestive system of a parakeet and make it sick.
Amongst the avocados, the Guatemalan variety of avocados is the most toxic for a parakeet.
Can Parakeets Eat Bananas?
Yes, parakeets can eat bananas safely, but in moderation. Bananas offer potassium and antioxidants to a parakeet when included in their diet.
Banana skin can also be fed to parakeets. Remove the fruit after some hours after giving it to a parakeet, do not overfeed them.
Can Parakeets Eat Blackberries?
Berries and smaller fruits are generally ingested by parakeets regularly in their wild habitat. Chop the blackberries and feed the parakeet as they well receive them.
This is because they are comparatively smaller berries. They are identical to their native diet. They are ideally bite-sized berries and required little preparation.
You can choose to slice them or not. The seeds of this fruit are of no issue as they pass via their system easily.
There is no risk involved in eating blackberries.
Can Parakeets Eat Blueberries?
Yes, parakeets can consume blueberries. It is considered to be one of the best berries for a parakeet.
Their size is ideal for them to eat quickly. Their beak can conveniently fit these berries. They are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
They are, therefore, healthy. The seeds within the blueberries are tiny and so can pass through the parakeet’s system. There are no digestive issues with the sources.
So, blueberries are easy to eat for a parakeet.
Can Parakeets Eat Cantaloupe?
Yes, Cantaloupes are nutritious and can be fed to a parakeet. It is abundant in Vitamin A and C.
There is a little pre-preparation work, like eliminating the seeds and cutting them before feeding your pet.
The seeds are not harmful, but it can pose a risk of choking in parakeets, and hence they need to be removed before feeding them.
Cut them into bite-size pieces for a parakeet to let them conveniently enjoy them.
Can Parakeets Eat Cherries?
Yes, cherries can be given as a treat to your parakeets. They are a rich source of copper, potassium, vitamin A and antioxidants. Zeaxanthin, lutein, anthocyanin glycosides are some antioxidants present in cherries.
Your only pre-preparation before feeding them is to pit them. Ensure that the pits are removed properly as they can be toxic, posing a risk of choking to your parakeets.
If there’s trouble, slice them up before feeding for them to swallow them conveniently.
Can Parakeets Eat Dried Fruit?
Dried fruits are generally made available in the market with coated sulfur. This is for their preservation for a long time and any development of bacteria and mold.
Birds cannot handle sulfur, unlike humans.
Any natural dried fruit without any sulfur coating can be fed to your parakeet for safe consumption.
There are bird specific dried fruits which can safely be fed to them, or try making your own with the help of a dehydrator.
Can Parakeets Eat Grapes?
Yes, grapes can be fed to parakeets as they are copper and vitamin K rich.
Seedless grapes can be directly or sliced (if they are big) and feed them. If not, hang a grape bunch on the cage for them to enjoy.
Can Parakeets Eat Mandarin Oranges?
Yes, Mandarin oranges can be fed to parakeets as they are vitamin C rich. They are safe to eat as long as they are peeled and their skin removed.
Removing the seeds is essential as they comprise of cyanide generating compounds that are poisonous to parakeets.
Break them into pieces for smaller size and feed them.
Can Parakeets Eat Mango?
Yes, feeding mango to parakeet with providing vitamin A and C. Cut open the mango and eliminate the pit. Cut the mango into small pieces and feed your parakeet. Since the pit is poisonous, you need to eliminate it.
Can Parakeets Eat Lime?
Limes comprise plenty of citric acids that can upset the parakeet’s stomach.
However, it can be fed in moderation to prevent yeast infections and bacterial growth. Please do not feed them every day.
Can Parakeets Eat Figs?
Figs are safe but do not make them your everyday treat for your parakeet. They have plenty of fructose, which can result in weight gain in parakeets.
Can Parakeets Eat Dates?
Dates cannot be given every day to your parakeet, particularly in dried form, as they have high fructose and result in weight gain.
Dates have high health benefits, and parakeets love them because of their flavor and texture.
Can Parakeets Eat Guava?
Guava is suitable for a parakeet, but guava seeds can be life-threatening. Please get rid of these seeds before feeding them.
Ensure only flesh is being fed, in little quantities to your parakeet.
Can Parakeets Eat Dragon Fruit?
Yes, parakeets can feed on dragon fruit owing to its health benefits. It is rich in fiber, iron, and magnesium. It has a sweet taste and has a good number of nutrients.
Conclusion
Fruits make a small portion of their diet. While some fruits are beneficial for a parakeet, others are not. Fruits seeds are best avoided.
A balanced diet of fruits, berries, veggies, grains, seeds, and grass ought to be incorporated to sustain their optimal health.
