One of my readers got in touch to ask me this question, can parrots eat persimmons?
There is a lot of conflicting information about persimmons and parrots online.
Some people agree they are safe, and others feel they aren’t safe for our parrots.
After some in-depth research, let’s look at the question, can parrots eat persimmons?
The answer is yes, parrots can eat persimmons. They are on the safe list of parrot foods but must only be fed to parrots when ripe. Unripe persimmons can put your parrot at risk. Many parrot owners feed their parrot’s persimmons safely.
There are many concerns on the online parrot forums and parrot owners discussing if persimmons are indeed safe for parrots.
I have done some in-depth research and discovered all the answers to give you confidence about our parrots and persimmons.
This article will discuss what a persimmon is, why some parrot owners worry about persimmons, the benefits of persimmons for our parrots, and more.
Let’s jump into all the answers about parrots and persimmons.
What is a persimmon?
Persimmon is an edible fruit, a berry formally, that grows on a variety of trees known as Diospyros.
Persimmons taste like no other fruit.
They have a silky, slippery texture and taste like mango and roasted sweet pepper, with a hint of cinnamon.
They are rich, sharp, and sweet, all at the same time.
When the persimmon is ripe, it looks similar to a yellow tomato.
They do range in color from light yellow to dark red-orange.
They can vary in size and shape; you can see them less than an inch in diameter or as large as four inches in diameter.
Persimmons can be round, while others are heart or pumpkin-shaped.
Are persimmons safe for my parrot to eat?
Persimmons are safe for your parrot to eat when ripe.
The confusion about persimmons and parrots is when they are unripe or ripe.
An unripe persimmon is questionable for your parrot’s safety due to tannins found in the fruit while unripe.
Tannins are classed as toxic and dangerous to parrots.
This is why many parrot owners worry about the safety of persimmons.
When ripe, the persimmon is perfectly safe for your parrot, and they will thoroughly enjoy the fruit.
The persimmon is a nice mix of crunch that your parrot will find fun to destroy, with a sweet tang to its taste.
Wild parrots will eat persimmons regularly.
You must make a choice for your parrot, but rest assured they are classed as perfectly safe when ripe.
Why do some parrot owners feed parrots persimmons when others don’t?
There is a lot of confusion on the online parrot forums making owners unclear and unsure about parrots’ safety eating persimmons.
This is why some parrot owners will choose not to feed their parrots persimmons, while plenty of other owners will follow the advice of only feeding parrots ripe persimmons.
When unripe the fruit is firm, the persimmon contains high tannins levels at this stage that make them sharp and unpleasant.
As the fruit ripens, the tannins recede, and the flesh becomes sweet and very juicy.
A fully ripe persimmon feels very soft, and its flesh has the texture of dense jelly.
What are tannins in persimmons, and why aren’t they safe for my parrot?
Plants contain tannins to make themselves taste disgusting.
The purpose in nature is to discourage animals from eating the fruit or seeds before it is ripe.
Tannins are accountable for that astringent, mouth-coating feeling you get from biting into an unripe pear, for example.
Some foods are also valued for their tannins; the bitterness and astringency, when managed well, can be rather pleasant.
Examples are tea, coffee, dark chocolate, and wine.
Tannins are on the toxic list for parrots, and the examples above are all on the toxic list due to the tannins present in them.
Different levels of tannins affect parrot species differently.
This is yet another reason why tannins are unsafe for parrots, as the effects on other species can vary greatly.
What are the benefits of persimmons for my parrot?
Persimmons are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin A, C, B6, potassium, and carbohydrates.
Let’s look into how these things benefit our parrot’s diet.
Fiber
Fiber aids with parrot’s digestion.
Fiber aids the movement through the gut and helps absorb other much-needed vitamins and minerals.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for bone structure, blood vessels, connective tissues, and muscles.
It also facilitates the body absorbing iron which supports red blood cell production
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 works with amino acid metabolism and breakdown of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates
Potassium
Potassium aids with preserving membrane tissues.
Excessive amounts of potassium can affect the kidneys and should be given in moderation.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates give an energy source.
The amount needed varies depending on your pet’s physical activity, environmental conditions, and fat levels.
Can parrots eat unripe persimmons?
No, unripe persimmons contain tannins which are toxic for parrots.
If you are concerned your parrot has eaten an unripe persimmon lookout for these signs;
Reduced mobility
Closed eyes
Loss of appetite
Significant increase in appetite
Shortness of breath and an open beak
Noticeable increase in water intake
Isolation in the corner of the cage
Diarrhea
Weight loss
If you have any concerns over your parrot’s well-being, contact a vet immediately.
Can parrots eat ripe persimmons?
Yes, ripe persimmons are safe for your parrots.
Ripe persimmon tannins are much reduced, and the flesh is then sweet and juicy.
A fully ripe persimmon feels very soft, and the fruit has the texture of a very firm jelly.
What amount of persimmons can I feed my parrots?
Ripe persimmon can be a regular part of your parrot’s diet.
As long as you provide a full and varied diet, you should not need to worry about your parrots’ eating persimmons.
A regular treat of persimmons is perfectly safe for your pet.
We have looked at all the questions about persimmons and parrots.
I hope this article has given you some clarity and confidence as the web can be a scary place to find information for our feathered friends.
Persimmons are indeed safe when ripe, and as long as you offer your parrots ripe fruit, you have nothing to worry about.
Persimmons are a fun, crunchy, sweet, and tangy treat for your parrots, and they will thoroughly enjoy them.
If you have any concerns about offering your parrot a new food, always seek professional advice from a vet who can offer the best advice for your parrot’s needs.