What Do Macaws Usually Eat?

William Warby/CC-BY-2.0

In the wild, macaws eat seeds, palm nuts and fruit. Pet macaws eat foods rich in beta carotene, such as orange vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots and peppers, along with green, leafy vegetables like kale. Macaws require diets that support their active lifestyle.

Prepared foods for pet macaws include a formulated diet that provides a good nutritional base without requiring vitamin supplements. However, this type of diet lacks the phytonutrients that support the immune system. Seed diets offer variety, but they require vitamin supplements. A diet that engages the parrot’s interest includes the addition of fruits and vegetables, along with proteins such as cooked chicken or sprouted legumes that include lentils or chickpeas. Nuts like macadamias, almonds and walnuts are ideal treats.

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