Thinking about switching your bird to Harrison’s? You’re not alone. It’s one of the most talked-about pellet diets for parrots in Australia. At Queenslander Aviaries, we’re proud to stock this premium organic range, and we’ve put together a simple guide that covers the top questions Aussie bird owners ask.
👉 Shop the full Harrison’s range here
1. What’s So Special About Harrison’s?
At Queenslander Aviaries, we don’t believe there’s a single “best” food - just better balance. Birds thrive when offered a varied and engaging diet tailored to their species and lifestyle. That’s why we recommend using pellets like Harrison’s as part of a broader feeding plan that includes fresh foods, seeds, sprouting/soaking, and natural foraging treats.
Harrison’s Bird Food is a popular choice for many bird owners looking for a clean, consistent pellet option. It’s:
-
Certified organic
-
Non-GMO
-
Cold-pressed to retain nutrients
-
Made without artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives
You can use Harrison’s as a base diet, then add extra variety with Raw for Birds organic sprouting and treats, or explore species-specific seed blends from our Feather Chef range.
The goal isn’t to choose one over another - it’s to create a well-rounded, interesting diet your bird will enjoy and benefit from.
2. How Do I Get My Bird to Eat It?
Transitioning your bird to a new diet takes patience and consistency. Here's a straightforward approach to help your feathered friend adapt:
-
Start with High Potency pellets – ideal for birds moving off seed
-
Mix with current food – begin by combining a small amount of pellets with your bird's usual food
-
Gradually increase – over 7 to 10 days, increase pellets while reducing the old food
-
Keep it fresh – offer a clean portion each day in a fresh bowl
Some birds may take to the new food straight away, while others might need more encouragement. Introducing a foraging bowl can help make mealtime more engaging and natural. You can also sprinkle in their favourite treats or veggies to boost interest.
For detailed guidance on diet conversion, please refer to Harrison’s official resources:
These guides offer comprehensive information to support a successful transition to Harrison's Bird Foods.
3. How Should I Store the Pellets?
To keep Harrison’s fresh and full of nutrients:
-
Store pellets in the original bag and seal tightly after each use
-
Keep them in a cool, dry place - the fridge is ideal for longer shelf life
-
Use within 4 to 6 weeks of opening
-
Avoid repackaging - the original bag is designed to protect the food from moisture and light
4. Do I Still Feed Fresh Foods Too?
Yes — and we highly recommend it! Even though Harrison’s is a complete diet, variety keeps your bird healthy and mentally enriched.
Consider adding:
-
Fresh vegetables like leafy greens, capsicum, and broccoli
-
Bird-safe fruits in moderation
-
Seeds or nuts as occasional treats or training rewards
Think of Harrison’s as the nutritional foundation, and fresh extras as the colour and texture that make meals more exciting.
5. Which Harrison’s Blend Should I Choose?
Not sure which formula suits your bird best? Here's a quick overview:
-
High Potency Fine / Coarse – great for birds transitioning to pellets, during breeding, moulting, or recovery
-
Adult Lifetime – perfect for healthy adult birds already eating pellets
Can Lorikeets Eat Harrison’s Pellets?
We don’t recommend Harrison’s pellets for Lorikeets. These birds have unique dietary needs that are different from most parrots, especially when it comes to nectar and moisture content.
Instead, we suggest offering a pellet made specifically for them, like Vetafarm Lorikeet Nectar Pellets. These are designed to meet the nutritional requirements of nectar-feeding species and can be fed dry or mixed with water to suit your bird’s preference.
Got Questions?
We're always happy to help with general guidance on products and feeding ideas. If you're unsure about which Harrison's blend to pick or want tips on introducing pellets, feel free to contact us here. Our team is made up of real bird people with hands-on experience, and we love helping you explore what might work best for your flock.
Just keep in mind, for anything medical or for tailored diet plans, it's always best to chat with an avian vet who knows your bird's individual needs.