Why

Almonds are a rich, high-fat treat that a budgie can enjoy in tiny amounts. They do offer some healthy fats and minerals, but the fat content means they are easy to overdo on such a small bird, so they belong in the rare-treat category rather than the everyday bowl. They must be plain and unsalted, never coated, roasted in oil or flavoured. Because a whole almond is far too big and hard, it also needs chopping small to remove any choking risk before you offer it.

How to feed it

Use only plain, raw or dry-roasted unsalted almonds, never salted, sugared, smoked or chocolate-coated. Chop or grate a small piece into tiny fragments so there is no choking hazard, and offer just a crumb in a dish or from your hand. Make sure the nut is fresh and not mouldy, as mould on nuts can be dangerous, then remove any leftovers.

How much & how often

Just a small fragment, far less than a whole nut, once a week or so. Almonds are calorie-dense, so a little goes a long way and regular large amounts would quickly unbalance the diet.