Why

Orange offers a good dose of vitamin C and some hydration, and many budgies like the sweet-sharp juice. The reason it stays strictly occasional is acidity, as citrus is quite acidic and can upset a tiny digestive system if given too often. It is also sugary. Offered rarely and in small amounts, a little orange is a pleasant treat, but it should never become a regular food.

How to feed it

Peel the orange and remove all pith, pips and membrane, then offer a small segment or a few tiny pieces of the flesh in a dish. Never give the peel, which can be waxed or sprayed. Wipe up sticky juice and remove leftovers promptly.

How much & how often

A small piece of one segment, no more than once a week, is enough. The acidity and sugar mean orange should be one of your budgie's rarer treats rather than a frequent offering.