Bentonite Clay for Parrots: Why Every Bird Owner Should Keep Some at Home
If you've ever researched natural parrot care or watched wild parrots in documentaries, you’ve probably come across the term clay lick. These clay-rich areas, often seen along riverbanks in South America and other tropical regions, are a lifeline for wild parrots and not just for fun. In fact, parrots intentionally seek out clay and consume it regularly. But why? What’s so special about clay, and can our companion birds benefit from it too?
Let’s dive into the incredible benefits of calcium bentonite clay for parrots, and why we think every bird keeper should have a stash in the cupboard.
What Is Bentonite Clay?
Bentonite clay is a natural mineral-rich clay formed from volcanic ash. It comes in two main types: sodium bentonite and calcium bentonite. At The Aviary Parrot Food, we only use and recommend 100% pure, food-grade calcium bentonite clay, which is the same safe, gentle version used in human detox and cosmetic products. It’s completely free from additives, preservatives, and contaminants.
Why Do Wild Parrots Eat Clay?
In the wild, clay is essential. Wild parrots regularly visit clay licks, especially in areas like the Amazon basin. These colourful flocks gather in huge numbers to consume the mineral-rich clay, and they do this for good reason.
Here’s why wild parrots eat clay:
🦜 Detoxification: Many tropical fruits, flowers, plants and seeds contain naturally occurring toxins. Clay binds to these toxins, neutralising them and preventing absorption.
🦜 Mineral boost: Clay provides vital trace minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron, which can be lacking in some natural diets.
🦜 Digestive support: The clay helps to bind excess moisture, promote healthy digestion, and soothe irritated gut lining.
So, if wild parrots rely on clay for their health and survival… shouldn’t our pet birds have access to it too?
The Benefits of Calcium Bentonite Clay for Companion Parrots
Adding a small amount of bentonite clay to your parrot’s diet can bring a wide range of health benefits:
✅ Gentle Detox Support
Binds with toxins and heavy metals in the gut, helping to flush them safely from the body.
✅ Boosts Gut Health
Supports digestion, balances gut flora, and may help with mild diarrhoea or digestive upset.
✅ Natural Mineral Source
Provides a gentle source of bioavailable calcium, magnesium, and other trace minerals.
✅ Enrichment & Mental Stimulation
When used creatively, bentonite clay becomes an excellent enrichment tool (more on that below!).
How to Use Bentonite Clay for Your Parrot
Our Calcium Bentonite Clay for Parrots is ultra-fine, food-grade, and safe for daily use. Here are our favourite ways to use it:
1. Sprinkle It on Fresh Food
Just a pinch over your bird’s morning chop and soaked seed mix gives that wild clay lick vibe. Many parrots enjoy the earthy flavour, or don't even notice it at all, and it blends well with most raw foods.
2. Make a Paste for Enrichment
Mix with a little water to make a smooth paste, and then:
🦜 Spread onto a clean perch or branch for sensory foraging
🦜 Smear onto cardboard or natural toys for clay licking fun
🦜 Freeze into DIY foraging cubes with safe herbs or flowers inside
This is especially great for birds who love texture, and it encourages natural licking and scraping behaviours you often see in the wild.
Why We Choose Calcium Bentonite (Not Sodium)
It’s important to note that not all clay is safe. Sodium bentonite clay can swell when wet, which may cause issues if consumed in excess. It’s commonly used for industrial purposes so is not ideal for birds.
That’s why we only stock human-grade, calcium-based bentonite clay which is safe, gentle, and closer to what parrots would naturally encounter in the wild.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating clay into your parrot’s routine isn’t just about health it’s about bringing your bird closer to nature, and offering them something that supports both body and mind. With its natural detoxifying properties, mineral content, and endless enrichment possibilities, bentonite clay deserves a spot in every parrot keeper’s toolkit.
You can shop our 100% pure calcium bentonite clay for parrots right here at The Aviary Parrot Food. Whether you sprinkle it, smear it, or build a whole foraging game around it, your bird will thank you.