FAQ: Food for birds

Yes, if the seeds are fresh and viable, although there are also mixes made specifically for sprouting. Old or heat-treated food sprouts poorly, so it will give few sprouts.

Soaked seeds are seeds left in water for a few hours and rinsed, making them softer and easier to digest. They are often given to parents feeding chicks, during the moult or to young birds, but they spoil quickly.

Yes, small amounts of cooked rice, pasta, quinoa, legumes or vegetables without salt and seasoning suit many parrots and make an interesting extra. Serve cooked food cooled and remove it after a few hours.

Raw or undercooked beans contain substances that are toxic to birds. Give legumes only well cooked or sprouted using a reliable method, and ask a vet if in doubt.

Hard-boiled egg is a valuable protein source, especially during the moult, breeding or when raising chicks. Give it finely mashed in small amounts and remove it soon, because it spoils quickly in a warm room.

Chop is a mix of finely chopped vegetables, greens, cooked grains and legumes that can be prepared for several days. Portions can be frozen and thawed one a day so the bird gets variety.

Frozen vegetables without salt or sauces, such as peas, sweetcorn, carrots or broccoli, are a convenient alternative to fresh ones. Thaw them to room temperature before serving and do not refreeze.

Wash vegetables and fruit thoroughly under running water, scrub hard ones with a brush and rinse leaves several times. Birds are small and sensitive, so pesticide residues harm them more than people.

Fresh parsley in moderation, dill, basil, coriander, mint and thyme suit many birds. Give herbs without seasoning blends or salt, and introduce new ones gradually while watching how the bird tolerates them.

Leaf lettuce, romaine and kale are fine, while iceberg lettuce has almost no nutrients. Give brassicas in moderation and alongside other vegetables.

Unsalted, unroasted nuts suit many parrots, especially large ones, but they are very fatty. For small parrots and those prone to weight gain they are a treat, while for large macaws they can be a bigger part of the diet.

Improperly stored peanuts can contain mould toxins that are very dangerous to birds. Choose peanuts fit for human consumption or labelled for birds, keep them dry and throw away any that look or smell unusual.

Bread and biscuits give birds almost no nutrition and often contain salt, sugar and fat. A tiny crumb now and then will not hurt, but they should not be given daily.

Birds digest lactose poorly, so milk is not suitable for them. Some owners occasionally give a tiny piece of hard cheese or yogurt, but it is not a necessary part of the diet and larger amounts can upset digestion.

Fresh, cooked or moistened food should stay in the cage no longer than a few hours, and even less on a warm day. After that bacteria and mould grow, so remove leftovers and wash the dish.

Twigs with buds and bark from safe trees such as apple, willow, birch or hazel are both food and entertainment for birds. Collect them from unsprayed trees away from roads and wash them.

Avocado contains a substance that can be highly toxic to many bird species and damage the heart and breathing. It must not be given in any form, and if a bird eats avocado it needs urgent veterinary care.

No. Onions and garlic, especially raw or in large amounts, can damage birds' red blood cells. Also avoid human food containing them, such as sauces or soups.

The theobromine and caffeine in chocolate, coffee and tea are toxic to birds and can cause heart rhythm problems and seizures. Even a small amount is dangerous for a small bird, so contact a vet if it happens.

Yes. Birds are very sensitive to salt, so crisps, salted nuts, large amounts of cheese or salty snacks can cause serious health problems. Prepare food for birds without salt.