Foraging is an essential enrichment activity for birds that supports both mental and physical well-being. Just like people, birds need daily stimulation to stay healthy and happy. While foraging is a natural behavior for wild birds searching for food, pet birds also benefit greatly from this instinctive activity. Encouraging your bird to forage—by hiding treats or placing food in puzzle toys—can reduce boredom, promote problem-solving skills, and mimic natural behaviors that keep your feathered friend engaged and thriving.

What Is Foraging and Why Is It Important for Pet Birds?

Birds in the wild are constantly foraging to find food, but foraging for food isn’t a necessity for pet birds. Their water and feed cups are usually attached to their cages, and this has caused pet birds to stop searching for food. However, foraging has numerous benefits for birds, including encouraging mental and physical activity. It also reduces long periods of inactivity, which can lead to unsuitable behavior.

How to Teach Your Bird to Forage

There are many creative ways to encourage foraging, but you have to make sure that your bird has learned the basics of foraging first. Start off with easy foraging methods so that your birds gets a chance to learn the art of foraging. You can do this by varying the location of your bird’s food within his cage, and then start covering his food with a paper towel. Once your bird catches on, you can start placing food in easily destructible containers or hiding
treats inside or underneath toys.

Best Foraging Toys for Parrots and Pet Birds

Many foraging products have been created for pet birds to help them stay mentally and physically active. Piñatas and toys that require your bird to go through a series of steps in order to obtain a treat are a great way to spur foraging skills. Toys such as the Foraging Pouch, Foraging Wheel, and the Foraging Basket are great aids to encourage foraging after birds have learned the basics.

How Foraging Reduces Boredom and Unwanted Behavior in Birds

Incorporating foraging into your bird’s daily routine is one of the best ways to support their mental and physical health. From simple DIY ideas to interactive foraging toys, these activities help prevent boredom, reduce unwanted behaviors, and encourage natural instincts. Whether you’re caring for a parrot, cockatiel, or finch, foraging enrichment is key to a happy, healthy bird. Keep your bird engaged, challenged, and content by making foraging a fun and consistent part of their environment.