What is the Best Food for Cockatiels? Nutrition Guide (Staple, Supplements, and Treats)

Cockatiels, with their long and curled crests and cute blush features, have won the liking of many parrot enthusiasts. Many

 people choose Cockatiels as family pets to raise. But the gastrointestinal function of Cockatiels has always been a relatively weak one among parrot breeds. Therefore, during daily feeding, what foods should be fed to Cockatiels has become a problem that troubles many breeders.

The daily diet choice for Cockatiels should actually focus on the combination effect of complete nutrition, rather than pursuing a single best food, balancing palatability and nutritional value. Only a comprehensive combination of nutrition from multiple foods can allow Cockatiels to obtain a healthier physique. Below, I will introduce in detail what food combination is better for Cockatiels to eat:

I. Staple Food Aspect:

The daily food of Cockatiels is mainly based on mixed grain feed. It is recommended to choose brands with formulas as rich as possible when buying, usually containing millet, proso millet, perilla seeds, hemp seeds, sunflower seeds, canary seeds, freeze-dried fruits and vegetables, nut kernels, egg yolk granules, flower and grass seeds, and nourishing pellets, etc.. These ingredients can basically provide various nutrients and energy needed for the daily activities of Cockatiels. Especially grains with shells, not only can provide protein, starch, and trace elements, but also help exercise the chewing function and grinding functions of the bird’s beak.

Of course, some breeders will also make self-mixed feed for Cockatiels. But one must pay attention to the cleaning, screening, storage, and ratio of various raw materials purchased. This actually also requires investing a certain amount of time and energy to prepare. Bird friends who do not mind the trouble can try.

II. Supplementary Food Aspect:

The combination of supplementary food can provide a more complete nutritional intake for Cockatiels. Usually, it is mainly fresh fruits and vegetables, such as: apples, peaches, strawberries, green vegetables, carrots, chili peppers, etc., which can help parrots replenish rich vitamins and minerals. A Reasonable combination can help strengthen their body functions and maintain their healthy body state.

At the same time, pay attention to two points when feeding: First, the surface of fruits and vegetables must be washed clean to avoid pesticide residues having negative effects on the parrot’s body; Second, pay attention to the appropriate amount when feeding, because some fruits and vegetables contain relatively high moisture and sugar, and excessive intake may affect the gastrointestinal digestion function of Cockatiels, thereby causing the occurrence of diarrhea situations.

In addition, supplementary food can also be boiled eggs, nourishing pellets, etc. Here,I explain why nourishing pellets are mentioned again, because although many brands of mixed grain contain nourishing pellets, their nutritional component value is relatively low. It is recommended to purchase better-quality, nourishing pellets separately. Of course, nourishing pellets can also be fed as the staple food for Cockatiels, but not all Cockatiels like to eat nourishing pellets, so you need to pay attention to how nourishing pellets is for the Cockatiel you raise.

III. Snack Aspect:

There are many snacks designed specifically for parrots on the market, such as honey-flavored snack bars, biscuits, etc.. But pay attention not to feed too much, because Cockatiels are not mainly nectar-eating. There is a lot of selectivity for snacks, and breeders only need to focus on the health of the ingredient list when choosing.

IV. Nutritional Supplements:

This type of product is also very abundant, but many are unnecessary. Here, liquid calcium and health grit are mainly recommended. Liquid calcium allows parrots to absorb more effectively and has a great effect on strengthening bones and preventing some diseases. Health grit can allow Cockatiels to replenish more minerals needed by the body and can help prevent the occurrence of phenomena such as Cockatiels gnawing on wall skins or eating feces.

Generally speaking, there is actually no particularity in the daily feeding grain for Cockatiels. It is important to keep their diet diverse. If choosing pre-packaged bird feed, it is recommended to choose brands with richer ingredient lists and better reputations. The feeding of fruits and vegetables requires attention to freshness, cleanliness, and the appropriate amount. Nourishing pellets, liquid calcium, and health grit can all play a good role in supplementing vitamins, calcium, and minerals for the Cockatiel’s physique.