As a bird owner, you might be seeking the healthy and nutritious treats that add different varieties and taste to your bird’s meal. What about Figs? Can Parrots Eat Figs or Not? Yes, parrots can safely intake them safely; and offer the several health benefits to your pet bird.
Many parrot species may enjoy the taste of the figs but some might need some time to be familiar with the new foods. Fig parrot, a special kind as the name guides it has the natural affinity for these fruits. Size differs when offering the figs to the different breeds. Smaller birds like parrotlets should be feeding in the smaller pieces to make it easier to digest.
This article will provide you all the necessary details regarding the benefits, potential concerns and the best ways to serve figs. Just reading it at the end without skipping any content!
What are about Figs?
Figs are a kind of fruit that appears like an inverted flower with a pear shaped pod. They are mainly found in the Asiatic Turkey and Northern India in different varieties.
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This fruit is generally grown in the warmer climates and has a sweet and soft texture which makes the seeds crunchy.
The dried form is sweeter than the raw figs.
Is It Safe for Parrots to Eat?
No Doubt! Figs are safe and healthy for parrots to eat as a regular part in their diet. All the size or species of parrots can consumes fig; but portions size vary according to the bird’s size.
So, we always advised to serve the figs as a part of different diet rather than daily feast.
Figs make up only 20- 25% of your feathered companion overall diet to make sure the balanced nutrition.
Health Benefits of Figs to Your Parrots
Figs are a great source of fiber and are also rich in vitamin and the mineral content.
They contain the properties of all the essential nutrients required for the overall well being of parrot.
The following are the different nutritional benefits, but are not limited to:
Potassium
It is needed for the production of glucose and the protein metabolism.
Calcium
Deposited in the skeletal system, It is necessary for the bone strength and the growth of new bone.
Magnesium
Necessary for the metabolism, improves heart health, formation of the bones and the enzyme activation.
Deficient of magnesium can even result in death.
Iron
Iron helps to make the hemoglobin and is necessary for the feather pigmentation.
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It helps to transport the oxygen from lungs into the body.
Copper
This is necessary for the healthy blood vessels, bones and for connective tissues.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is necessary for the proper function of every system in a body.
This also helps to support the liver health, heart health and a healthy immune system.
Vitamin K
It helps to avoid the blood clotting.
Your feathered companion experiences the excessive bleeding from the small injuries.
Health Concerns of Serving Figs to Parrot
Figs are same, but here are some potential concerns:
Figs contain the natural sugar that leads to weight gain if it is fed in excess. Obesity is a common health problem in parrots and proper management of sugar intake is crucial.
Too much consumption of fruit at once can results in digestive problems which includes diarrhea. Introduce new foods slowly and gradually.
Dried figs can be sticky which causes problems in parrots that get stuck on their beak. It is also necessary to make sure that the figs especially dried are unsulphured and is free of preservatives.
Artificial fruits contain the harmful pesticides which are toxic for parrots. Wash thoroughly before serving.
How Much Figs are Ok to Feed Parrot?
- Offer with some different treat, it is essential to serve figs in moderation.
- Prefer to serve not more than one or two dried figs in a week.
- Offer one or two small pieces of fresh figs per weeks.
What Kinds of Parrot Species Can Eat Figs?
The following are the different species of parrot that enjoy figs:
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Budgerigars (Budgies): They are generally small size parrot creatures. So, they should be feeding in the smaller pieces for easy digestion.
Cockatiels: These mostly prefer the figs and other similar fruits occasionally.
Amazon Parrots: Amazon and the other species of the parrot like munching on figs due to its sweetness.
African Greys: Figs should be served as an occasionally fruit to African Greys parrots. They are small and can gain their weight themselves after consumption.
Macaws: Macaws are large so they can eat whole fig; but should be fed in moderation.
How do You Offer Figs to Parrots?
Serving figs to parrots need some preparations to make sure that they are safe and healthy for them. This is how it goes:
Always ensure to wash the fig thoroughly to remove pesticides and other contaminants.
Remove the parts like stem and leaves as they are inedible and dangerous for your pet bird.
Cut fig into smaller pieces that is suitable for the different size of the parrots. Smaller birds may need the finer pieces as compared to the larger ones.
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Figs should be serving as an occasional treat rather than primary food.
Observe the reactions carefully after serving fig for the first time. Prepare their diet as required relies on their better health and behavior.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Do All Parrot Species Have Figs?
Most of the species of the parrots can safely consume figs because of its natural sweetness. But remember, it should be fed in the moderation.
Can You Serve Dried Figs to Parrot?
Yes! Dried figs can be feeding to the parrots; and can be kept for longer time. They mostly lower the nutritional benefits; if compared with the fresh figs.
Can You Give Flesh and Seed of Fig to Your Parrot?
Of course! Parrots can eat flesh and the seeds of the figs safely. The seeds of the figs should crush before serving to avoid choke.
Can Parrots Like to Eat Fresh Figs?
Fresh figs are nutritious and contain the natural sugars so it safe for parrots to eat. Consider to offer them in moderation.
Do Parrots Consume Fig Leaves or Stems?
No! Leaves and stems are generally toxic. Serve the fruit part of fig to parrot for their well being.
Do Wild Parrots Like to Intake Figs?
Many of the wild parrot species consider the figs as a part of their regular diet. Especially those who are found in the tropical and the subtropical regions; if figs are available.
Can Parrots Have Ripe Figs?
Ripe figs are generally safe and have the good nutritional benefits. They are small and green in color which parrots can digest it. Its sweetness and smooth texture attracts your feathered friend.
Final Words: Can Parrots Eat Figs?
Figs are healthy and tasty treat for your parrots when it serves in the moderation as a balanced diet. Fresh figs are the best option as it is great source of essential nutrient and reduce sugar content.
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The potential risks, health benefits are clearly mentioned above which make sure to keep your bird healthy. Consult with an avian vet if you have any doubt about parrot’s diet.
Do you have any experience, tips, tricks, or query regarding on this? You can drop a comment!
Have a Nice Day!!
