Rose hip for birds: Parrots, cockatiels, budgies, finches
Rose hip for birds, including Parrots, cockatiels, budgies and finches
Rose hips (the fruit of the rose plant) are safe and highly beneficial for birds, including parrots, cockatiels, budgies, and finches. They offer numerous health benefits and are often used as a natural supplement for birds.

Benefits of Rose Hip for Birds:
- High in Vitamin C: Rose hips are rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system, helping to ward off infections and improve overall health.
- Antioxidants: They contain antioxidants like flavonoids and carotenoids, which can protect birds from oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Fiber: The high fiber content helps with digestion and can support healthy gut function.
- Rose Hip Seeds: The seeds inside rose hips are also safe for birds to eat and can provide additional nutrients.
How to Feed Rose Hip to Birds:
- Fresh or Dried: You can offer fresh or dried rose hips. Make sure they come from a pesticide-free source. Fresh rose hips can be sliced in half to make them easier to eat, while dried rose hips can be sprinkled into food or foraging toys.
- Rose Hip Tea: Some bird owners brew rose hip tea (without any additives) and serve it cooled to their birds.
- Mix with Food: Dried rose hips can be ground and mixed into soft foods, pellets, or seed mixes for an added nutritional boost.
Important Notes:
- Pesticide-Free: Like with all plant-based treats, ensure that any rose hips you offer to your birds are organic and free of chemicals.
- Moderation: Rose hips can be offered as a supplement or treat, but they should be a part of a varied diet that includes other fruits, vegetables, seeds, and pellets.
Rose hips can be an excellent, natural addition to your bird’s diet, providing them with essential vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber to promote health and vitality.

Here’s a simple Rose Hip Recipe for parrots, cockatiels, budgies, and finches that combines the nutritional benefits of rose hips with other bird-safe ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons dried rose hips (or a few fresh rose hips)
- 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (optional for extra Omega-3)
- Chopped fruits: Apples, berries, or melons (choose bird-safe fruits)
- Chopped vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, radicchio or leafy greens
- Bird-safe pellets, rolled oats or seed mix (as a base)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Rose Hips: If using dried rose hips, crush them slightly to make them easier for the birds to eat. If using fresh rose hips, slice them in half and remove the seeds.
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the rose hips with chopped fruits and vegetables. Add in some bird-safe pellets or a seed mix for variety.
- Optional Add-ins: Mix in chia seeds for added Omega-3 and fiber.
- Serve: Offer the mixture in their food bowl or as part of a foraging activity to encourage natural behaviors.
Rose hip for birds tips:
- You can adjust the recipe based on what your birds prefer.
- Rose hips can also be steeped in water to create a tea, which can be cooled and served to your birds.
This recipe provides a healthy, nutrient-rich treat that your birds will enjoy! Always introduce new foods gradually and in moderation.
Rose hip for birds info-table:
Name: |
Rose hip |
Scientific name: |
Also known as: |
Rose haw and rose hep |
Indigenous Countries: |
Description: |
The accessory fruit of the rose plant. It is typically red to orange, but ranges from dark purple to black in some species. |
Nutritional Value: |
Abundant in Vitamin C. |
Feeding: |
Cut in 2 pieces. |
Discussion: |
Helps combat stress. |