Why

Spinach is nutritious, offering vitamin A, vitamin K, iron and folate, but for budgies it is a moderation food because it is high in oxalates. Oxalates bind to calcium and can reduce how much your bird actually absorbs, which matters for a tiny bird that needs calcium for bones and eggshells. Fed occasionally it is a healthy leafy green, but daily spinach is not a good idea, particularly for breeding or calcium-sensitive birds. Rotate it with lower-oxalate greens.

How to feed it

Wash the leaves well to remove grit and any residues, then tear or chop them into small pieces or clip a leaf to the cage bars. Serve it raw for the most nutrients. Baby spinach leaves are tender and easy for budgies to eat. Take out any wilted leftovers after a few hours so they do not spoil in the cage.

How much & how often

A small piece of leaf once or twice a week is sensible. Keep it occasional rather than daily, and lean on kale, pak choi or other greens as your calcium-friendly staples.