What Is a Good Diet for an Eclectus Parrot?

What Is a Good Diet for an Eclectus Parrot?

Unlike most other species of parrots, eclectus species feed on a diet of fruits and vegetables as well as seeds, nuts and flowers. They are native to the Solomon Islands, New Guinea and northeastern Australia where they consume a variety of foods, including pomegranate, papaya, wild figs, pawpaw and cucumber.

The best dietary options for eclectus parrots include high-quality pelleted bird food that has no artificial colorants or preservatives and is designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of this species. It should contain about 25% pellets and 80% fresh fruits, vegetables and sprouting seed.

Fruit and Vegetables

Eclectus parrots are mainly frugivores and they thrive on a varied diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially those that contain vitamin A. They love carrots, sweet potato cooked or raw, kiwifruit, bananas, avocados, pears, tangerines, mangoes and other fruits with high levels of vitamin A. They also enjoy cooked and raw vegetables with dark green leaves, such as kale, broccoli and dandelion.

Vegetable Protein

Sprouted and whole seeds and legumes are a key part of an eclectus’s diet. These should make up about 20-30% of their meals.

Nuts are another important component of their diet, however they should not be a large part of their daily consumption as they contain fat which can contribute to weight gain. These can be offered as an occasional treat.

Sprouts are an excellent source of vitamins for eclectus parrots and are easy to prepare. Simply soak the seeds in water and rinse them regularly to obtain the most vitamin content possible.

The best sprouting seeds for eclectus parrots are pumpkin, sunflower, radish, flax and sesame. You can soak these seeds overnight or for several days, rinsing them every few hours.

Vegetable Protein

Eclectus parrots require a vegetable protein supplement that is easily digested and provides a high level of essential nutrients for healthy growth. Vegetables such as cooked and raw edamame beans, carrots, celery and kale are all great providers of this.

Vegetables that are rich in folic acid, like spinach, are also very beneficial for your eclectus. The folic acid in these vegetables will help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Eggs are a great protein source for eclectus parrots, but they should be consumed in moderation. They also provide calcium, which is essential for a healthy skewer.

A little table food is OK, but it should be limited to a few pieces of scrambled eggs, cooked rice and cooked beans. They also need to receive an occasional cracker or a high-quality pelleted food.

It is a good idea to have a range of toys, such as foraging toys, in their cage to keep them busy. This will help to reduce boredom, and it will also give them a chance to chew on something that isn’t their cage or cage furniture!