Can Birds Eat Olives?

Olives are a staple in many human diets, appreciated for their unique flavor and health benefits. If you’re a bird enthusiast, you might wonder whether these fruits are also suitable for birds. The answer is yes, birds can eat olives in moderation, but there are important considerations to take into account, especially regarding the type of olives and how they are prepared.

photo of green and black olives in background with cartoon of red bird in foreground

Nutritional Value of Olives for Birds

Olives can offer some nutritional benefits to birds. They are a source of dietary fat, which is essential for energy, particularly for birds in colder climates or during migration.

Types of Olives and Suitability for Birds

If you are lucky enough to have an olive tree in your yard, you know that birds might occasionally peck at the fruit–but generally not a lot. Fresh, raw olives are rarely eaten due to their bitter taste, which results from compounds like oleuropein.

Most jarred or canned olives have gone through a curing process that makes them edible. However, they are often preserved in brine, which is high in sodium.

High salt content is harmful to birds, so it’s crucial to rinse off any brine or pickled solution thoroughly before offering these olives to birds.

Always remove the pits and cut the olives into small pieces to prevent choking and make them easier for birds to eat.

Regardless of the type of olive, ensure they are free from added spices, oils, and especially pits, as the pits can be a choking hazard and contain harmful substances.

Which Birds Eat Olives?

While not all bird species may be drawn to olives, some may be curious and give them a try, especially if they are accustomed to a varied diet that includes fruits and fatty foods. Here are some bird species that might eat olives:

Starlings: Known for their diverse diet, starlings might be interested in olives, particularly if other food sources are scarce.
Robins: Robins are known to eat a wide variety of fruits and could be attracted to olives offered in your garden.
Jays: As opportunistic feeders, jays might sample olives along with other types of food they find in their environment.
Mockingbirds: Like robins, mockingbirds have a diverse diet and may be curious about olives.
European Blackbirds: If you live in an area where these birds are common, they might also be attracted to olives.
Orioles: These birds are known for their love of fruits and might try olives if they are accessible.
Woodpeckers: Some woodpecker species might be interested in olives, especially if they are used to visiting bird feeders with a variety of food offerings.

Not all birds will be attracted to or interested in eating olives, and preferences can vary greatly even within a species. As with any new food item, it’s best to observe how the birds in your area respond and adjust your feeding practices accordingly.