Buying Bird Food in Bulk: How to Save Without Waste

Bird food is one of your biggest ongoing costs as a bird owner, and buying bigger bags is a natural way to save. But food that goes stale or moldy before your bird finishes it isn't a bargain. Here's how to buy in bulk the smart way.

Step 1: Figure out how much your birds eat

The easiest way is to measure it for a week:

  1. Weigh or measure the food you put in the bowl each day.
  2. Weigh or measure what's left the next morning (including what's on the cage floor).
  3. The difference is roughly what your bird eats. Multiply by seven for a weekly amount.

Do this for each bird, and add it up. A single cockatiel eats very little; a pair of macaws goes through food quickly.

Step 2: Match the bag to your birds

  • One small bird: buy by the pound or a 5 lb bag so food stays fresh.
  • One medium parrot or a few small birds: a 5 lb or 10 lb bag is often the sweet spot.
  • Large parrots or multiple birds: 20 lb bags usually make the most sense and generally cost less per pound.

Our most popular sizes are the 10 lb and 20 lb Ultimate Blend bags. For large birds, the 20 lb Cockatoo/Macaw Blend is a favorite.

Step 3: Store it properly

Bulk food only saves money if you store it well:

  • Move food into sealed, rigid containers as soon as it arrives.
  • Keep about 10 to 14 days' worth at room temperature.
  • Refrigerate the rest. Don't freeze it, since melting ice crystals can cause mold.

See our full guide to storing bird food so it stays fresh.

More ways to save

  • Split a bag with a friend or bird club member who feeds the same food.
  • Buy nuts and treats in bulk too. Our 20 lb mixed nuts and 5 lb box of spray millet are popular with multi-bird households.
  • Reduce waste. Use bowls that limit flinging, and don't overfill. Birds often toss food they don't want when the bowl is full.

When not to buy in bulk

If you're switching your bird to a new food, start with a small amount until you know your bird will eat it. See which Ultimate Blend is right for your bird before committing to a large bag.

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