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A parakeet isn’t a specific type of parrot, but rather, a term given to several small to medium-sized species of parrots with long tail feathers. The term “parakeet” isn’t a taxonomical reference to any genus or family of parrots; the parrots sometimes referred to as parakeets span multiple genera. Examples of parrots generally termed as parakeets include budgies, cockatiels, ring-necked parrots, and nose-ringed parrots.
Just like any other pet, there are certain things that you should never feed your parakeet. From choking hazards to poisons, you always want to avoid the type of foods that can cause your parakeets danger. What about watermelons? Can parakeets eat watermelon?
Yes! It is completely safe to feed your parakeet watermelon, including the seeds. Watermelons can act as a great treat for your parakeets because they have a sweet flavor and plenty of vitamins and minerals your parakeet needs for optimal health.
To learn more about feeding your parakeet watermelon and its other dietary requirements, keep reading. This article answers everything you would need to know about feeding your parakeet watermelon, fruits, and other foods.
Can Parakeets Eat Watermelon?
Watermelon makes a great treat for your parakeets. The fruit is high in vitamin C, water, and sugar. As a result, parakeets love the flavor of watermelon, but the tasty fruit provides a few vitamins and minerals your parakeet needs for health at the same time.
However, you should not feed your parakeet watermelon every day. Instead, you should rotate their daily fruit and vegetables to offer them variety and to ensure better nutrition. Think of watermelon more as a tasty treat to give your parakeet as part of their fruit quota for a day rather than a daily necessity.
How Often Can Parakeets Eat Watermelon?
“On occasion” is a very vague term. So, how often should you feed your parakeet watermelon? Fruit should only make up 5% to 10% of your parakeet’s daily diet. Watermelon should be included in the fruit percentage of the day.
In other words, you can technically feed watermelon to your parakeet daily, but you can only feed it in small portions.
To keep your parakeet interested in the food and provide it a well-balanced diet, you should vary or alternate the fruit you feed. For example, it’s a great idea to alternate days between feeding your parakeet watermelon, apple, pineapple, and any other fruits.
What to Feed Your Parakeet
Because watermelon should only be fed as the occasional treat, you need to feed your parakeet other foods throughout the day. Parakeets need a variety of seeds, fruits, vegetables, pellets, legumes, and nuts for a well-balanced diet.
A formulated diet (such as a pellet) should form the majority of your companion bird’s diet (about 75%).
The rest of the diet should be smaller fractions of vegetables, nuts and other protein sources, and a small serving of fruits. True berries are preferred over other fruits.
Such a composition is appropriate for most pet birds, with the exception of some nectarivores (such as lorikeets and lories) and some species with a very exclusive diet (such as the glossy black cockatoo).
Always consult with your exotic or avian veterinarian if you have any doubts about your bird’s diet.
Food to Avoid Giving Your Parakeet
Whenever you first get your parakeet, it is important to understand what you should not feed it. Here is a list of the most important foods and drinks to avoid feeding your parakeet:
- Avocado
- Caffeinated tea
- Chocolate
- Coffee
- Crackers
- Dairy products
- Garlic
- High-sodium food
- High-fat food
- Onion
- Peanut shells
- Sugary food
- Processed foods
Keep in mind that this is not a comprehensive list of what your parakeet should avoid. These are just some of the most basic and important foods to watch out for.
Final Thoughts
The next time you have some leftover watermelon hanging out in your fridge, don’t hesitate to share some with your parakeet. Watermelon makes a great treat fruit that your parakeets will love. When providing a well-balanced diet for your parakeet, your bird will be happy and healthy.
Also see:
- Can Budgies Eat Watermelon? Vet-Approved Nutritional Info You Need To Know!
- Can Parakeets Eat Pineapple? Vet-Reviewed Facts & Info You Need To Know
Featured Image Credit: Piqsels
