Last Updated on November 6, 2020 by Mitch Rezman

Kurt N. inquires:

Can parakeets eat raw quinoa?

Some sites say yes some say no.

The “no” ones say it will swell up in their stomachs like rice.

But the rice one has been proven to be an urban legend. I ask though because quinoa is not rice.

Dear Kurt

We recently spoke on the phone.

I told you that quinoa will not “swell in a bird’s stomach”.

It is no different than any other grain.

Not all birds will eat raw quinoa due to the bitterness.

Allow me to expand.

The flavor is not always a problem.

Tweeky Clean feeders in our budgie aviary ~ Video

Birds have an average of 350 taste buds vs 9000 in humans.

If your birds don’t eat it, then consider rinsing and sprouting the grain or cooking it.

Get Budgies to Eat Veggies

Here are the links for BLOG posts with my Parakeet Seed recipe.

Our Recipe For A Perfect Parakeet Mix

What is The Perfect Recipe for Your Parakeet Blend Seed Mix?

I hope these ideas help with your budgie’s nutrition.

Regards,

Catherine

Author Profile

Mitch Rezman

Latest entries

• Bird & Parrot AnatomyMarch 29, 2025The Fascinating World of the Cockatoo Parrot
• Bird BehaviorMarch 29, 2025Why is the Green Cheek Conure Millenials Favorite Pet Bird?
• Bird & Parrot CareMarch 28, 2025The Charismatic Cockatoo Bird: Nature’s Comedian with a Crest
• Bird & Parrot AnatomyMarch 28, 2025Do Bird Songs Change Over Time – Here’s a Bird Song Time Machine