Fresh Sunflower Heads Safe?

[jacksmom]

Free of pesticides - maybe some bugs, could probably wash them off...I know the dried seeds are safe, but what about the fresh, whole plant? Flower petals, stalk, so on?

 

[jacksmom]

One of the small heads that fell down early...there are much bigger ones still upright on stalk and seem to be doing just like Google told me they should...bending down and flower petals dying. Wondering if I can go ahead and let them have some fun with the fallen ones now...

 

[BillsBirds]

Birds will only be interested in the seeds. But, sunflower seeds are very high in fat. We generally restrict sunflower seed consumption to treats. You shouldn't let them eat too many. But, if you ask them, they'll say, "Yes! Give us Sunflower Seeds!" Plus, they'll have fun plucking them out of the flower heads. But, not too many at one time.

 

[henpecked]

I cut the heads and hang to dry, usually if they have "bugs" you can see small holes in the seed shell. If you hang inside the house they usually last for months.

 

[jacksmom]

I had read that blue and golds (have not researched any other parrot to this depth) eat flower petals and "plant matter" in the wild...I understand and appreciate you posting your opinion they won't be interested - but was more asking whether it would be safe if they did eat it, not whether or not they were likely to...

I agree, if I put a whole head in there they would likely eat only them and ignore their regular food - which does not have any sunflower seeds at all in this batch, I don't think, lol...so yeah, like kids with candy, I'm sure! I was thinking maybe a three inch wide piece or so per bird...we have two.

So...nobody had an opinion on fresh seeds, flowers, and plant matter vs just the dried heads? Safe, unsafe?

 

[jacksmom]

Update - Jack went for the plant first, probably because it was new. Paris is still ignoring it, lol, not even interested in the seeds for some reason. Jack is still his boisterous self, no sign of feeling unwell from ingesting the plant or fresh seeds. Assuming all is well with feeding fresh sunflower parts. Gave them each a chunk on their playstands at the farm yesterday.

 

[henpecked]

Didn't realize you where asking about feeding them fresh sunflowers. Yes they can have them.