This guide covers general food safety information that applies broadly across common pet bird species (parrots, budgies, cockatiels, lovebirds, canaries and finches). It is not a substitute for species-specific advice – see our individual care guides for more detail on your specific bird.
Commonly safe foods
- A formulated pellet diet appropriate to your species, as a dietary base
- Fresh leafy greens (such as kale, spinach in moderation, rocket, and herbs)
- Other fresh vegetables (such as carrot, broccoli, bell pepper, peas, sweetcorn)
- Limited fresh fruit (such as apple flesh, berries, banana) – fruit is generally best offered in moderation due to sugar content
- Cooked plain grains such as rice, pasta or quinoa in small amounts
Introduce new foods gradually and in small amounts, and remove uneaten fresh food after a few hours to avoid spoilage.
Foods to avoid
The following are widely reported across avian-care sources as harmful or toxic to birds and should be avoided:
- Avocado – contains persin, which is commonly reported as toxic to birds
- Chocolate – contains theobromine, toxic to birds
- Caffeine (tea, coffee, energy drinks)
- Alcohol
- Onion and garlic
- Apple seeds and the pits/stones of fruits such as cherries, apricots and peaches – these can contain cyanogenic compounds
- Salty, sugary or high-fat human food, including processed snacks
- Xylitol (a sweetener found in some sugar-free products)
- Mouldy or spoiled food of any kind
Why a varied, fresh diet matters
A seed-only diet is widely considered inadequate for long-term health in most commonly kept pet bird species, as it tends to be low in several vitamins (including vitamin A) and minerals when fed exclusively. A formulated pellet as a dietary base, alongside fresh vegetables and limited fruit, is generally recommended by avian vets over a seed-only approach.
Species-specific considerations
Some species have additional considerations beyond this general list – for example, some sources discuss specific sensitivities or dietary needs for particular parrot species. Always confirm anything species-specific with an avian vet rather than relying on general guidance alone, and see our species-specific guides: Budgie, Cockatiel, African Grey, Lovebird, Canary, Finch.
Frequently asked questions
Is avocado really dangerous for birds?
Avocado is widely reported across avian-care sources as containing persin, a compound commonly cited as toxic to birds, and is generally recommended to be avoided entirely.
Can birds eat fruit?
Yes, in moderation – fruit is generally fine as an occasional treat, but is often high in sugar, so it should not make up a large part of the diet.
Is a seed-only diet bad for birds?
A seed-only diet is widely considered inadequate long-term for most commonly kept pet bird species, since it tends to be low in several vitamins and minerals when fed exclusively.
What human foods are safe for birds?
Plain cooked vegetables, small amounts of plain grains, and limited fresh fruit are commonly considered safe – avoid anything salty, sugary, high in fat, or on the specific avoid list above.
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