Birds and parrots need cuttlebone as a dietary supplement, a source of entertainment, a way to sharpen their beaks, and a tool to strengthen their jaws. Cuttlebone is made up of calcium carbonate, as well as magnesium, potassium, zinc, and iron. It is an abrasive like pumice, allowing parrots to grind down their beaks and exercise their jaw muscles. It also gives your parrot something fun to chew on and peck at.