Feeder match

The best feeder for monk parakeets

An introduced South American parrot that builds huge communal stick nests on utility poles and stadium lights.

Parrots (Psittacidae)Monk ParakeetMyiopsitta monachus

Feeder styles that work

First choice
Platform / tray feeder

An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.

Also works
Hopper feeder

Holds a large seed volume with a ledge for mid-sized birds.

What to fill it with

  • Black-oil sunflower
  • Safflower
  • Orange halves

Full seasonal diet of the Monk Parakeet →

Sizing the feeder to the bird

The Monk Parakeet measures 11 in and weighs 3.4–5.3 oz. Perches, ports and landing surfaces need to fit that frame — too small and the bird can't feed comfortably, too open and larger birds and squirrels dominate.

Keep it clean

Scrub feeders every two weeks in hot soapy water, soak 10 minutes in a 1:9 bleach solution, rinse and dry before refilling. Rake up hulls underneath.

Frequently asked

What kind of feeder is best for monk parakeets?

Platform / tray feeder. An open, stable surface for larger birds and ground-feeders.

What should I put in a feeder for monk parakeets?

Black-oil sunflower, Safflower, Orange halves.

Where should I place a feeder for monk parakeets?

An introduced South American parrot that builds huge communal stick nests on utility poles and stadium lights.

Sources

  1. Monk Parakeet — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  2. Monk Parakeet life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  3. Monk Parakeet — Audubon Guide to North American Birds

Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.