Can Birds Eat Kiwi?

Ever wondered if our wonderfully plumed pals in the sky share our taste for Kiwi? The answer, surprisingly, is yes–but with some precautions.

background of sliced kiwi fruits with cartoon of yellow bird in foreground

Nutritional Benefits of Kiwi for Birds

Rich in Vitamin C: Kiwi is an excellent source of Vitamin C, which can boost a bird’s immune system.
Vitamin K and Potassium: These nutrients are beneficial for a bird’s overall health.
Antioxidants: Kiwi contains antioxidants, which are good for maintaining healthy cells.

Serving Kiwi to Birds

Wash Thoroughly: Always wash the kiwi thoroughly to remove any pesticides or chemicals.
Cut into Small Pieces: Chop the kiwi into small, manageable pieces that birds can easily eat. This is especially important for smaller bird species.
Remove the Skin: While the skin is edible, it’s better to remove it as some birds may find it difficult to digest or might not like the texture.
Offer in Moderation: Kiwi should be given as a treat and not as the main part of the bird’s diet. Too much fruit can lead to digestive issues due to its sugar content.

Birds Most Likely to Enjoy Kiwi

At bird feeders, certain wild bird species are more inclined than others to try eating kiwi, especially those that have a natural preference for fruits. Here are some of the wild birds most likely to sample kiwi at your feeders:

Orioles: Known for their love of fruits, orioles are likely to be attracted to kiwi. They are particularly fond of brightly colored and juicy fruits.
Robins: American Robins, which often eat fruits and berries, may also be interested in kiwi pieces.
Mockingbirds: Northern Mockingbirds, with their varied diet that includes fruits, might try kiwi offered at feeders.
Tanagers: These birds are attracted to fruit and might sample kiwi, especially in areas where they are frequent visitors to bird feeders. (These are the biggest fruit eaters at our feeders!)
Thrushes: Some species of thrushes, which include fruits in their diet, might be attracted to kiwi.
Cedar Waxwings: Waxwings, known for their love of berries, might also be enticed by the sweetness of kiwi.
Cardinals: Although they primarily eat seeds, Northern Cardinals have been known to eat fruits at feeders and may try kiwi.