Pumpkin Seeds – A Great Seasonal Treat
Pumpkin is a type of squash and makes a great food for pet birds. The simplest way to prepare pumpkin is to cut it into cubes and steam it for 35-40 minutes or until soft. You can mash the cubes for smaller birds such as finches. Serve them whole to larger birds such as senegals and macaws.
Pumpkin seeds have long been a favorite of parrots. It is easy to prepare them.
Remove seeds from pumpkin.
Wash and remove pulp and strings.
Pat dry and place on cookie sheet (aluminum)**
Bake at 375 degrees for 40-45 minutes, turning every 5-10 minutes.
Let cool and serve these delicious tidbits to your feathered friends!
Please remember do not salt these seeds unless they are for human consumption. Birds cannot excrete salt the way humans can and it is not good for them.
**Please beware of nonstick cookie sheets. It is very easy to burn foods on cookie sheets. Teflon and other nonstick pans can release fumes that are deadly to birds. It is highly recommended that you use cookie sheets that do not have nonstick surfaces or that you remove your birds from any room near the kitchen.