If you’re a new African Grey parent—or thinking about becoming one—there’s one thing you need to get right from day one: their diet.
Because here’s the truth:
An African Grey’s diet directly affects how long they live, how they behave, and even how they sound. Feed them right, and you’ll have a happy, energetic companion for decades. Feed them wrong… and you could be dealing with mood swings, plucked feathers, and serious health issues.
But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Let’s walk through exactly what an African Grey parrot’s diet should look like (and what to avoid at all costs).
The Ideal African Grey Diet: What Should They Eat Daily?
African Greys are not seed-only birds. In fact, a seed-heavy diet is one of the most common causes of health problems in pet parrots.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what a balanced African Grey diet should look like:
1. Pellets – 60–70% of the diet
Pellets are specially formulated to give African Greys all the essential nutrients they need.
Look for high-quality brands like Harrison’s, Roudybush, or TOP’s. Avoid cheap, colored pellets—they’re often full of sugar and artificial dyes.
2. Fresh Vegetables – 20–25%
Yes, your parrot needs their greens too! Veggies add vital vitamins and fiber.
Best vegetables for African Greys:
Kale
Carrots (grated or thinly sliced)
Bell peppers
Broccoli
Spinach (in moderation)
Zucchini
Chop them up small or serve lightly steamed if your bird is picky.
3. Fruits – 5–10% (as treats)
Fruits are like dessert: natural sugar bombs. They’re great, but in moderation.
Parrot-safe fruits:
Apples (no seeds!)
Blueberries
Mango
Papaya
Banana
Pomegranate
Limit to once a day—maybe a grape or a slice of apple.
4. Nuts & Seeds – Only as Treats
African Greys love nuts, but they’re high in fat. Use sparingly—for training or enrichment.
Good choices: almonds, walnuts, pistachios (unsalted and shelled).
Sample Feeding Schedule for an African Grey
Time of Day | What to Feed | Example |
Morning | Pellets + Veggies | 2 tbsp pellets + chopped kale, carrots |
Afternoon | Fruit Snack | 1 grape or small apple slice |
Evening | Pellets or mash | 1 tbsp pellets or bird-safe mash |
All Day | Fresh water | Change at least once a day |
Make sure food is served in clean bowls, and remove any uneaten fresh food within a few hours.
What NOT to Feed Your African Grey Parrot!
Some foods are straight-up dangerous for parrots—even a small bite can be toxic.
Avoid these at all costs:
Avocado – toxic and deadly to parrots
Chocolate – contains theobromine, dangerous for birds
Caffeine – coffee, tea, energy drinks: all NO
Fruit seeds/pits – like apple seeds or cherry pits (contain cyanide)
Alcohol – not even a drop
Salty or sugary snacks – chips, cookies, candy = big no
Garlic and onion – can cause digestive problems and anemia
If you’re ever unsure about a food, just don’t risk it.
Supplements & Calcium: Do African Greys Need Them?
If your African Grey’s diet is properly balanced (with pellets, veggies, and fruits), you usually don’t need extra supplements. That said…
Consider:
Cuttlebone or calcium blocks – especially for females
Vitamin A or D3 supplements – only if your vet recommends it
UVB lighting – helps with vitamin D3 production if your bird doesn’t get direct sunlight
Never give supplements without checking with an avian vet first.
Signs Your African Grey’s Diet Needs a Check
Here are some red flags that your parrot’s nutrition might be off:
Dull, frayed, or greasy feathers
Sudden mood swings or aggression
Overeating only seeds or junk food
Weight loss or gain
Lethargy or lack of interest in toys
A healthy African Grey diet = bright eyes, shiny feathers, and a chatty, curious bird.
How to Transition to a Healthier Diet?
Let’s be real—some parrots are super picky.
If your Grey is used to seed mix or human snacks, here’s how to make the switch:
Go slow. Gradually mix in pellets with their old food.
Chop veggies small. They might try them if they look like part of their seed mix.
Use foraging tricks. Hide small fruits or veggies in toys.
Stay consistent. It can take weeks for parrots to accept new foods.
Patience pays off. The earlier you start, the easier it is.
Free Printable: Safe Foods for African Greys
Want a handy food list to stick on your fridge or save to your phone?
I’m putting together a free printable with all the African Grey diet DO’s AND DON’Ts—let me know if you’d like that, and I’ll add the download link here soon!
Final Thoughts
The key to a healthy, happy parrot is BALANCE—and it all starts with what’s in their bowl.
A proper African Grey diet will boost their energy, brighten their feathers, and even help with behavior.
Remember: you’re not just feeding a pet—you’re caring for a companion who could be with you for 40–50 years.
Have a favorite healthy recipe or snack your African Grey loves? Drop it in the comments! And if you haven’t already, check out the first post in this series: Is an African Grey Parrot Right for You? (Pros & Cons for First-Time Owners)
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs):
1. Can African Greys eat eggs?
Yes, in moderation. Cooked scrambled or boiled eggs can be a good source of protein. Just avoid adding salt or butter.
2. Is seed mix okay as part of their diet?
Seed mix should not be the main part of an African Grey’s diet. Seeds are high in fat and low in nutrients. Use only as occasional treats.
3. How often should I feed my African Grey?
Twice a day works well for most Greys—morning and evening. Always keep fresh water available and clean.
4. Do African Greys need fresh food daily?
Yes. Fresh veggies and small amounts of fruit should be part of their daily diet. Rotate for variety.