Clay or no Clay…

In your opinion, do parrots in our care require clay in their diet?

Although wild parrots seek out clay licks it is not a supplement that is typically recommended in a captive situation. The presumption is that the wild parrots eat the clay as both a mineral supplement and as a potential detoxifying agent. In our captive birds, nutrition is better controlled and there should be no access to toxic materials.

Respectfully submitted,

Dr. Kerry Korber
Calgary Avian & Exotic Pet Clinic