The Diet / Food/ Nutritional Needs of Ringneck Parrots

In the wild, Ringnecked Parakeets mostly feed on seeds, grains, blossoms, fruits, berries, greens, vegetables, berries, nuts and even nectar.

Flocks of them often forage on farmlands and orchards and are by many farmers considered “crop pests”.

They also take advantage of bird feeders in urban gardens.

Especially during the breeding season, the adults and their young have a higher requirement for protein and, therefore, increase their consumption of insects (including beetles), mealworm larvae and pupa.

Captive Diet

The different Ringneck Parrot Species should be fed a wide variety of foods. A high quality dry food mix that contains seeds, grains and nuts should be available at all times – a Small Hookbill or Cockatiel should be suitable for them. Clean, fresh water for drinking and bathing should also be provided.

Their diet should also include a good amount of leafy dark greens and vegetables (i.e. chard, kale, carrots, corn, celery, squash), as well as fruits (i.e., applies, grapes, pears, persimmons, pomegranates, figs, grapes, bananas).

Wild-picked green foods such as chickweed, seeding grass, dandelion (flowers, roots and leaves), shepherds-purse and sow-thistle make excellent additions to a healthy diet.

Some nutritious human foods, such as cooked beans, cooked chicken, wholegrain rice also add variety to their diet.

Germinated or sprouted seeds are especially important for the breeding season. They should be fed fresh making sure that it is not contaminated by bacteria or molt. It should have a sweet smell. If it smells foul or sour, discard. Frequent rinsing will help prevent spoilage. Sprouting: The Easy Way.

Calcium supplements, such as cuttlefish, shell grit, crushed oyster shell or calcium blocks should be available – particularly during the breeding season.

Millet spray makes a nutritious treat.

More information about nutrition / tips and safety concerns

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Gaurav Dhir

Gaurav is an animal enthusiast. He lives in beautiful Ontario with his energetic family. As a part of his work at beautyofbirds.com, he has been working with ace parrot trainer, Cassie Malina to understand bird behavior and learn more about how he can train his feathered companions.