Cockatiels are bright-colored parrots mainly of orange and yellow and have an ability to mimic human speech. Mainly, the diet of these birds includes corn and millet seeds, but they also need Vitamin C to stay healthy. Orange is the major source of Vitamin C so, in this regard, oranges come into play. They provide necessary vitamin C and also add flavors to their food as well.
You might be wondering now, can Cockatiels eat Oranges?
Yes, Cockatiels can eat oranges.
Are Oranges Toxic To Cockatiels?
No, oranges are not. Even cockatiels love to eat oranges. Along with this, you need to be cautious about how much you let them have. There is not any sort of specificity regarding the toxicity of oranges. It eliminates the free radicals that cause various diseases.
Do Cockatiels Eat Oranges?
Yes, they do as oranges are loaded with calories which help them to stay energized during the day. Furthermore, an orange has no sodium, cholesterol, or fat so it is a healthy treat for a bird.
Healthy Benefits Of Feeding Oranges To Cockatiels
Oranges are rich in vitamin C which eventually promotes a healthy immune system and prevents the birds from getting ill. The healthy benefits of feeding oranges are as follows:
1. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is very important for the health of Cockatiels. It helps in reducing stress. It helps in creating antibodies and is best for the immune system. Having a deficiency of vitamin C can be detrimental to the health of a little bird.
2. Potassium
Orange is a source of getting Potassium which is good for aiding the speed of the metabolism and eventually helps in strengthening the bones. Potassium also helps in reducing blood pressure. Moreover, it helps in preventing strokes as well as keeping away from the diseases like kidney stones and osteoporosis.
3. Folate
Orange is a great source of folate which is way more important as it makes red and white blood cells for bone marrow. As a result, it helps to protect against illness and carries nutrients around the body. This is a very essential nutrient for rapid growth.
4. Vitamin B1
It keeps the nervous system of Cockatiel in check. Additionally, it helps the body the cells to change carbohydrates into energy. Furthermore, it helps to prevent the complications in brain, heart, muscles, or intestines.
5. Vitamin A
It is responsible for removing any respiratory infection in birds.
6. Calcium
It is also an essential nutrient found in oranges which help in strengthen strong bones and muscles.
Nutritional Statistics Of Oranges
Below is the breakdown of the nutritional statistic of an orange:
- Calories: 66
- Water: 86% by weight
- Fat: 0.2 grams
- Protein: 1.3 grams
- Sugar: 12 grams
- Vitamin C: 92% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Carbs: 14.8 grams
- Calcium: 5% of the DV
- Fiber: 2.8 grams
- Folate: 9% of the DV
- Potassium: 5% of the DV
How To Feed Orange To A Cockatiel?
The overall recommended dosage of feeding oranges to Cockatiel is around 10% of its food intake on daily basis. It ought to be fed as a snack or you can cut it in half down the middle and impale it onto a spike and eventually allow them to eat it as they wish.
Can Cockatiels Eat Orange Peels?
Cockatiels can eat oranges but eating peel is not safe for them as they won’t be able to digest the outer rind of the citrus fruit. Subsequently, the peel is hard and it becomes very difficult for the stomach to soften it prior the digestion. Moreover, peels contain harmful chemicals and pesticides so it is better to avoid them.
Can Cockatiels Eat Orange Seeds?
Cockatiels can eat oranges but try to remove seeds before feeding them because seeds are rich in fat and they must be offered in moderation only. Seeds could also choke in the throat so it is better to avoid them.
Can Cockatiels Have Orange Juice?
Yes, cockatiel can eat oranges but the juice is a perfect beverage for them. But moderation is a key as sometimes, oranges become acidic. In order to reduce their acidity, you can dilute orange juice with water and serve it in small portions. Orange juice can be easily digestible by the birds. Make sure to serve homemade orange juice because the natural sugar keeps the glucose level of the bird balanced.
Can I Give Dried Oranges To Cockatiels?
Yes, you can give but make sure that they don’t contain a high amount of Sulphur dioxide as it might damage the health of a bird.
What Will Happen If Cockatiel Eats Too Many Oranges?
Eating too many oranges won’t be fatal but one side effect may be an upset tummy. There is a natural sugar called fructose in oranges which works fine for humans but birds don’t really make enough enzymes so it could lead to problems and be ready for squidgy poos. In addition, oranges contain carbohydrates, and a lot of consumption of carbohydrates leads to obesity.
Other Fruits Parrots And Cockatiels Can Eat
- Pineapple
- Dates
- Apples
- Bananas
- Berries
- Watermelon
Final Thoughts
Cockatiels are food loving birds and they do eat oranges as they are healthy for Cockatiels because the vitamins and other nutrients produce antibodies and ultimately strengthen the bones of birds.
Orange is a nutritious food that plays an essential role in the overall well-being of birds as well as humans. You need to introduce new fruits and vegetables to your bird’s diet but make an informed decision before feeding them to tiny creatures.
