The morning sun, filtered through the avocado tree, hit my face. Another feeding time. Usually, that meant a cacophony of squawks and excited flapping. Today? Silence. Not ominous, but… different. I was testing the Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Parrot Food on my aging African Grey, Copernicus. He’s a discerning chap, that one. And frankly, a little portly.

Copernicus’s previous diet was, let’s say, “less than optimal.” Seed mixes are tempting, packed with sunflower seeds, which parrots adore but are essentially avian potato chips. Not conducive to longevity. So, I switched him over. The Forti-Diet’s pellet size is a decent medium – not so tiny it’s dust, not so massive it’s rejected outright. The initial sniff test? Approved. He cautiously approached the new offering.

The packaging claims “scientifically formulated.” Okay, I’ll bite. Prebiotics and probiotics for digestive health, Omega 3s for brain and heart support… all sensible. The inclusion of added vitamins and minerals is a good preventative. Compared to the old stuff, this is a vast improvement. He was getting a whole lot of what he needed. Plus, the kibble shape makes it ideal for beak manipulation, which is crucial for keeping those beaks healthy and trim.

Now, the practical stuff. The feeding guidelines are spot-on. Copernicus, a large parrot, needed roughly a quarter cup a day. The biggest advantage I’ve seen so far: less waste. Seed mixes leave a mountain of hulls. With the Kaytee, every piece is edible. It’s a game changer for waste management, believe me. Plus, less mess to clean! (A boon for anyone who has had to scrape seed detritus off their chandelier, like I have.)

One minor hitch: Copernicus, bless his heart, still picks out his favorite bits. Some parrots can be finicky, and the Forti-Diet, while palatable, isn’t as immediately appealing as a bowl of sunflower seeds. My work-around? A small sprinkle of chopped fresh fruit, like berries, once a week to encourage him. It’s worked a treat.

And the verdict? This isn’t just a parrot food; it’s an investment in your bird’s future. If you’re looking to move away from seed-heavy diets, then this is a solid base for your flock’s diet. For the slightly portly bird, and for you, it is a win-win. So: ditch the junk, upgrade the food, and prepare for a healthier, happier, and possibly less-squawky avian companion. You won’t regret it.