Parrots as Pet,What are The Pros and Cons
The question of whether you can keep parrots as pets is a nuanced one. Parrots are undoubtedly good and charismatic pets, but they come with unique challenges and responsibilities that potential pet owners must carefully consider.
Owning a parrot requires dedication, time, and financial commitment. These intelligent birds also need proper socialization, mental stimulation, and a suitable living environment to thrive.
Parrot ownership is often a long-term commitment that can span decades, so it’s essential to be prepared for the journey ahead.
Legally, parrot species, like Hyacinth Macaws (CITES Appendix ), Mollucan Cockatoo (CITES Appendix I), and African Grey (CITES Appendix II), are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, CITES, and it may be illegal to own them without the appropriate permits in certain regions.
Other species, like Quaker parrots, are considered invasive species and illegal to own in some regions, but reserved for these limitations, most parrots are ok and safe to keep as pets at home.
Why Parrots Are Good Pets to Keep at Home
Parrots can make good pets for the right individuals or families under the right circumstances. They are intelligent, with the ability to learn tricks, mimic speech, and solve puzzles.
Many parrot species also have long lifespans, which means they can be a long-term companion and form strong bonds with their owners. They are affectionate and loving birds.
Parrots as Pets Pros
Parrots are challenging birds, but if you have what it takes to own one, they can be rewarding, long-lived pets. Here are some of the qualities and factors that make parrots appealing as pets.
— Love and Affection
Parrots are incredibly loving and affectionate pets. Their ability to form strong bonds with their human caregivers results in close, deeply emotional relationships.
This potential for a deeply rewarding and affectionate companionship is one of the many reasons why people choose parrots as pets.
They enjoy cuddles, playful interactions, and mimicking affectionate sounds and words with their favorite person.
However, each parrot has its unique personality, and the degree of affection can vary from one bird to another. As such, building trust and a loving relationship with your parrot may require patience and understanding.
— Talk, Speech, and Sounds
Parrots are well-known for their ability to mimic sounds, including human speech. This ability is one of the reasons why they are considered such fascinating and engaging pets.
Many species, including tiny parrots, like cockatiels, can mimic human speech and surrounding noises, such as doorbells, alarms, and laughter.
Parrots can even use their mimicry skills in context to express emotions and communicate.
For instance, they might say “Hello” when someone enters the room, mimic a crying baby when sad, or laugh when happy.
— Social Intelligence
Parrots are undeniably intelligent birds, with a range of cognitive abilities that set them apart in the avian world. Perhaps more intelligent than your average dog or cat.
This intelligence adds depth to the bond between parrots and their owners and makes them endlessly fascinating pets for those who value their cognitive prowess.
Their problem-solving skills, learning capabilities, and memory retention are remarkable.
Another captivating aspect of their intelligence is their ability to mimic various sounds, including human speech, which requires a high degree of cognitive processing.
Furthermore, parrots exhibit social intelligence by recognizing and responding to the emotions and behaviors of other parrots and humans.
— Learning and Memory
Parrot observational learning is a particular strength, that allows them to imitate actions.
Parrots make perfect companion pets for their learning and memory capacities. They are swift learners, readily picking up new interactive skills and behaviors.
They exhibit an impressive long-term memory, retaining specific words and behaviors learned over extended periods. Their spatial memory is equally remarkable, enabling them to navigate and remember the layout of their surroundings.
Their ability to associate cues with rewards, solve problems by recalling past experiences, and even remember emotional events adds to their cognitive versatility.
These learning and memory abilities make parrots captivating and adaptable companions that thrive on mental stimulation and a nurturing environment.
— Lifespan (Lifetime Companions)
Parrots can be long-term companions that form deep and lasting bonds with their human caregivers. They are known to develop strong social connections, and many species have relatively long lifespans, ranging from 7 to 15 years for tiny parrots, like budgerigars, and 60+ years lifespans for large birds, like African greys.
It’s important to note that parrots require ongoing attention, care, and social interaction to thrive as long-term companions.
Their long lifespan dictates a significant and lasting commitment from their owners. So, be prepared to provide proper care, mental stimulation, and an enriching environment to ensure a fulfilling relationship for your parrot.
— Entertainment
Parrots are renowned for their remarkable capacity to entertain with their ability to mimic human speech and a wide array of sounds.
Beyond their vocal talents, they are inherently playful creatures, eagerly exploring their surroundings and reveling in various toys and puzzles.
Their social nature is also endearing, as they seek interaction with their human caretakers and respond to petting and conversation with enthusiasm.
The strong bonds also result in affectionate cuddling, grooming, and playful interactions, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience of having a parrot as a pet.
Each parrot possesses a unique personality, which ranges from clownish and humorous to mischievous and independent.
— Beautiful and Colorful
Parrots make for captivating and visually striking pets due to their dazzling plumage. Their vibrant colors and intricate patterns are a delight to behold, adding a burst of natural beauty to any home.
Whether it’s the vivid reds and blues of a Scarlet Macaw or the striking yellows and greens of a Sun Conure, the aesthetics of parrots can be truly mesmerizing.
Parrots are dull and drab, like cats and dogs. They are more ornamental, more like aquarium fish.
Parrots as Pets Cons
Owning a parrot as a pet can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to consider the potential cons and challenges associated with parrot ownership:
— Long Lifespan
While it’s not inherently unpleasant that parrots have a long lifespan, there are some potential downsides and challenges associated with long-lived pets.
For instance, before bringing a parrot into your home, you must be prepared to care for it for 20, 30, or even 50+ years, depending on the species.
This can be a challenge for individuals unable to provide stable care throughout the bird’s lifetime and is one reason why many parrots end up in animal shelters.
Besides, your life circumstances can change significantly over several decades, and you must account for these changes (work, family, health_, with your parrot in mind.
Parrots are also expensive to care for over their extended lifespans. So, consider these costs and ensure you can provide for your parrot’s needs throughout their life.
One more thing…
Parrots are highly social and intelligent animals and require interaction and mental stimulation for most of their lives. As such, prepare for several decades of providing this interaction to keep your bird from becoming depressed or developing behavioral problems.
— Parrots are Expensive
The other downside is owning a parrot is it can be an expensive endevour, and potential pet owners should be prepared for the financial commitment.
To begin with, the initial purchase cost of a parrot varies greatly depending on the species.
While common species might be more affordable, rare and exotic parrots can command a price in the hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
These birds also require spacious and secure cages, which can be costly, especially for larger parrot species. The cage should provide space for movement and exercise to keep them physically and mentally healthy.
Another ongoing expense is their dietary needs.
Parrots have specific nutritional requirements, and their food can be relatively expensive. High-quality pellets, fresh fruits, and vegetables are essential in their diet.
Additionally, parrot owners must budget for toys and enrichment activities to keep these intelligent birds mentally stimulated. Parrots need puzzles, interactive toys, and a variety of objects to keep them engaged.
You’ll also need to invest in perches, climbing structures, and cleaning supplies.
Regular veterinary care is crucial for the well-being of parrots, but it comes at a cost. Avian veterinarians, who specialize in bird care, often charge more than regular veterinarians. Grooming is also a consideration; some parrot species may require wing and nail trimming, which might entail additional expenses.
Travel and boarding cost are not key but may require financial consideration. If you need to leave town and can’t take your parrot, you may need to pay for boarding services.
Lastly, above the monetary costs, a parrot demands time and commitment, are not a direct financial expense but are crucial aspects to consider before bringing a parrot into your life.
— Destructive Behavior
Parrots are known for their beautiful plumage, vocal abilities, and intelligence but often exhibit destructive behavior as pets.
Additionally, hormonal changes during breeding seasons may trigger territorial or aggressive behavior. Environmental changes, such as moving or alterations in routine, can also induce stress and destructive behavior.
To address these concerns, provide mental stimulation through toys and puzzles, maintain a consistent routine, offer a balanced diet, limit hormonal triggers, create a safe environment, employ positive reinforcement, and consult an avian veterinarian or specialist if there is need.
However, each parrot is unique, and addressing destructive behavior requires patience and understanding to foster a healthy and happy parrot-human relationship.
If you have limited time or not willing or able to dedicate plenty of time to training you pet, perharps a parrot is not your best bet
— Destructive Behavior
Parrots are known for their beautiful plumage, vocal abilities, and intelligence but often exhibit destructive behavior as pets.
Additionally, hormonal changes during breeding seasons may trigger territorial or aggressive behavior. Environmental changes, such as moving or alterations in routine, can also induce stress and destructive behavior.
To address these concerns, provide mental stimulation through toys and puzzles, maintain a consistent routine, offer a balanced diet, limit hormonal triggers, create a safe environment, employ positive reinforcement, and consult an avian veterinarian or specialist if there is need.
However, each parrot is unique, and addressing destructive behavior requires patience and understanding to foster a healthy and happy parrot-human relationship.
If you have limited time or not willing or able to dedicate plenty of time to training you pet, perharps a parrot is not your best bet.
— Noisy Pets
Parrots can be both delightful and challenging pets for families and apartment living regarding noise. So, whether they suite your situation depends on various factors, including the parrot type and your tolerance for noise.
First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that parrots are known for being noisy before you get one. They are highly social and vocal creatures, and they use their vocalizations to communicate, bond with their owners, and express their needs and feelings.
This can result in varying sounds, from cheerful chirping and mimicry of human speech to loud screeching and squawking.
The noise level can be either positive or a negative for families. Some children find the vocal nature of parrots fascinating and enjoy interacting with them.
However, if you have very young children or family members sensitive to loud noises, a parrot is not be the best pet to own.
In apartment living, the noise from parrots can pose a challenge.
Many apartment complexes have noise restrictions, and loud parrot vocalizations may lead to complaints from neighbors or even eviction if you cannot mitigate the noise effectively.
If you live in close quarters with others, it’s crucial to consider whether you can manage a parrot’s vocalizations or explore quieter pet options.
However, not all parrot species are equally noisy. For instance, budgerigars (budgies) are less noisy than larger parrots like macaws or cockatoos.
If you’re set on having a parrot in an apartment or a family setting, choosing a quieter species might be a more considerate choice for your neighbors.
How to Keep Parrots as Pets at Home
Provide a loving, entertaining, and stimulating environment, consistent care, and attention to ensure a healthy life for your parrot.
Keeping parrots as pets involves providing proper care, attention, and a suitable environment to ensure their well-being. Because they are long-lived birds, you must also be prepared for the lifelong commitment.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on everything you need to get right to keep parrots as home pets:
1 — Research Parrot Species
Researching parrot species before bringing them into your home as pets is advised. It allows you to understand their specific needs, like diet, housing, and social interaction requirements and helps you to provide optimal care.
This knowledge also empowers you to select a parrot species that complements your lifestyle. By understanding the distinct behaviors and characteristics of various species, you will avoid common mistakes in their care.
Understand the health concerns and lifespans of different parrots during your research to provide adequate health care and planning for the long-term commitment required.
Delve into insights on the cost and time commitment involved in caring for your avian companion and research legal compliance, as it reveals potential restrictions on the ownership of protected species requiring permits.
Ultimately, informed research will also allow for ethical choices such as parrot adoption and rescue options, contributing to a more fulfilling and compassionate pet ownership experience while prioritizing the welfare of your parrot.
2 — Behavior
Before bringing a parrot into your home as a pet, it’s essential to have a comprehensive understanding of their behavior, including destruction and noise levels, self-harm, attention, neediness, and everything in between.
To begin, keep in mind parrots are highly social birds that thrive on daily interaction and companionship. They often form strong bonds with their human caregivers, requiring consistent attention and mental stimulation from the carer.
Moreover, parrot vocalizations can be loud and frequent, and different species have distinct vocal tendencies, so research the specific species to anticipate their vocal behavior.
Research the noise level of the parrot species you’re interested in as well, and determine how it aligns with your living situation.
Destructive behavior is another typical tendency in parrots due to their sturdy beaks and claws. So, be ready to provide safe toys and items to chew and tear to keep your bird(s) from damaging furniture or other household items.
Self-harming behavior in parrots is also a concerning issue that can manifest in various ways. Learn to manage such behavior promptly before you bring a parrot home to ensure his well-being.
Some common self-harming behaviors in parrots include:
Feather Plucking: This is the most common self-harming behavior in parrots. It involves the bird pulling out its feathers, often resulting in bare patches on their body. This behavior can be caused by stress, boredom, or underlying medical issues.
Excessive Chewing: Parrots have strong beaks, and excessive chewing on their feathers, skin, or other objects can lead to self-inflicted injuries. This behavior may stem from anxiety, frustration, or a lack of mental stimulation.
Head Banging: Repetitive head movements against objects can cause harm to the head and beak. This behavior may be an attempt to relieve stress or anxiety.
Lastly, parrot biting behavior is another concern among parrot owners and can be challenging to address. Understanding the reasons behind the biting and employing appropriate techniques to manage it is essential, but it requires experience, patience, and research.
Parrots are re-homed or taken to shelters every year than any other pet in the world because of ill-prepared owners unable to train and tame their birds, behavior.
3 — A Living Space for The Parrot
A suitable living space for a parrot is essential to ensure their well-being, happiness, and safety.
It begins with choosing an aviary or cage which offers ample room for your parrot to move, stretch its wings, and perch comfortably. The cage should be constructed from non-toxic materials and designed for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Select a cage that suits the size of your parrot!
A larger cage will not only accommodate more physical activity but also allow for various perches to help prevent foot problems.
Carefully consider the placement of the cage!
Position it in a draft-free area, shielded from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. Avoid the kitchen, as cooking fumes can be harmful to your parrot.
Your parrot’s living space should also be where it can regularly interact with you and other family members, as social engagement is a fundamental need for parrots.
Inside the cage, provide a diversity of perches crafted from natural, non-toxic materials. These not only offer comfort but also contribute to foot health.
Enrichment and mental stimulation are vital for parrots!
A rotation of safe and engaging toys is essential to keep your pet entertained. Be sure to select toys made from non-toxic materials without small parts that could be ingested.
Within the cage, also establish dedicated feeding and water stations with easily accessible stainless steel or ceramic bowls to help keep these areas clean and hygienic.
Additionally, provide a cozy hideout for your parrot within the cage, a place for privacy and relaxation.
Regular cage maintenance is crucial; establish a routine that includes daily cleaning of food and water dishes, waste removal, and periodic deep cleaning of the cage and accessories.
Parrot-proof your home by eliminating hazards like toxic plants, open windows, electrical cords, and small objects that could be ingested.
4 — Nutrition
A well-balanced diet is another concern if you want to keep parrots as pets. To meet their dietary and nutrition needs, combine high-quality commercial pellets, fresh foods, seeds and nuts, mineral and vitamin supplements, and clean water.
High-quality commercial parrot pellets should be the foundation of your pet parrot’s diet and constitute a significant portion of your bird’s daily food intake.
The best pellets are the ones specially formulated to contain essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals necessary for their overall health.
Select pellets specifically designed for the species of parrot you own, as different parrot species may have varying dietary needs.
Occasionally offer a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as apples, carrots, leafy greens like kale and spinach, and peppers to add variety and to provide crucial vitamins and antioxidants absent or limited in pellets and other foods.
Providing your pet parrot with fresh, clean water daily is essential. Regularly change the water in the dishes to ensure access to a constant supply of clean and safe hydration.
Some parrots may appreciate water baths, so you should also consider offering a shallow dish for an enjoyable and enriching experience.
You can feed your parrots seeds and nuts, but they should be administered in moderation as treats because they are relatively high in fat and can cause your parrot to gain weight.
Seeds and nuts are valuable tools for rewards during training or to add variety to their diet.
Parrots also benefit from having access to cuttlebone or mineral supplements as part of their diet. Feed them the supplements to provide essential minerals, primarily calcium, necessary to maintaining strong bones, beak, claw, and overall health in your parrot(s).
Lastly, if you are new to parrot keeping, it is advisable to consult an avian veterinarian or an experienced aviculturist to determine the specific dietary needs of your parrot species.
5 — Social Interaction
Parrots are highly social animals and require daily interaction. Spend time talking to, playing with, and training your parrot. They thrive on social engagement.
Some parrots, like budgies and lovebirds, do better in pairs especially with an owner who is away for several hours a day, so you may need to consider keeping more than one bird.
It’s important to note that the amount of social interaction a parrot requires can vary depending on the individual bird’s personality and species.
Some parrots are more outgoing and demand more attention, while others may be more independent.
6 — Training
Parrots can be trained, and their ability to learn and adapt to various training techniques makes it a valuable aspect of pet parrot ownership.
Training helps with behavior management, mental stimulation, and building a bond between the parrot and its caregiver. Positive reinforcement, using treats and affection, is the most effective training method.
Patience, consistency, and individualized approaches while considering the parrot’s unique personality are essential to successful training.
However, training a parrot is different from training dogs and other pets, so seek professional guidance if you are new to parrot training or dealing with challenging behaviors.
7 — Enrichment and Stimulation
Parrots benefit from training and enrichment to satisfy their intelligence and curiosity. Training will teach your bird tricks and good behavior while toys, puzzles, and activities keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
Some typical enrichments you should consider (cost) before you get a pet parrot, include shred and chew toys, music and sound toys, rotating playthings, puzzles, outdoor enclosures, foraging toys, and mirrors.
8 — Grooming
Grooming a pet parrot is a significant responsibility that new owners should be well-prepared for. It is essential not only for your parrot’s appearance but also for its overall health and well-being.
One of the most critical aspects of parrot grooming is feather care.
Healthy feathers are vital for your parrot’s ability to regulate body temperature, fly, and express themselves.
So, regularly inspect the plumes for signs of damage or wear, clean his environment, employ air purifiers, and ensure good ventilation to mitigate this issue.
Most birds enjoy bathing to keep their feathers clean and in good condition, so provide a shallow dish of water for your parrot to splash around in, or (and) mist their with a spray bottle regularly.
This hack will also reduce dust and dander from parrot feathers, which is problematic for those with allergies or respiratory conditions.
However, do not let your bird sit in the water too long or too often, and dry its feathers if you think he is too wet to keep him from catching a cold.
Ensure your parrot’s diet is well-balanced, including fruits, vegetables, pellets, minerals (Calcium), and seeds, since proper nutrition is also essential to keeping their feathers sturdy and vibrant.
Nail trimming is the other grooming task that parrot owners should be prepared for. Overgrown nails and beaks can become sharp and uncomfortable and should be trimmed when needed.
Many parrot owners also clip their birds’ wings to prevent them from flying away and getting into dangerous situations.
However, a parrot’s beak, claws, and feathers are sensitive, so caution is necessary not to cut too close or too quick. Seek guidance from an avian veterinarian or an experienced bird groomer before trimming, or better still, let them do it for you.
In addition to the physical aspects of grooming, molting is a natural grooming process for parrots, during which they shed old feathers and grow new ones.
The period requires extra care, including gentle handling. You also need to provide a protein-rich diet to support your parrot’s feather regrowth during this period.
When considering grooming products, avoid using harsh chemicals or products not specifically designed for birds, as they can be toxic or irritate your parrot’s sensitive skin.
Regular check-ups with an avian veterinarian are vital to monitor your parrot’s health and receive professional guidance on grooming and overall care.
These professionals can also check for signs of illness or feather-related issues and provide tailored advice to meet your parrot’s needs.
9 — Health and Safety
As noted, a pet parrot can be rewarding and fulfilling, but its health and safety are another responsibility that comes with owning one.
Parrots need regular check-ups with an avian veterinarian. Find an experienced one (Vet) and schedule routine visits to maintain your bird’s health.
Birds are sensitive, so you’ll also have to keep them from toxins, like fumes stick cookware, aerosols, candles, and other household items that can be harmful. Ensure your home is free of lead-based paint and toxic plants as well.
Regularly check your parrot for signs of parasites like mites or ticks, and if you have multiple birds, quarantine new arrivals for at least 30 days to ensure they aren’t carrying diseases that could infect your existing flock.
Keep his cage clean to prevent the buildup of waste and bacteria and provide perches of different sizes and materials to help keep their feet healthy.
Get to know your parrot’s normal behavior and appearance so you can quickly spot any signs of illness. The signs include changes in appetite, behavior, or droppings.
When your parrot is outside its cage, ensure the environment is safe.
Close windows and doors to prevent escape, remove hazards like toxic plants, and supervise your bird to avoid accidents.
Have a basic avian first-aid kit, know the location of your nearest avian vet, and understand how to handle common injuries to remain for any emergency.
Remember that parrots can live for several decades, so their care is a long-term commitment. Educate yourself to provide a safe and loving environment and meet their physical and emotional needs to keep your pet parrot happy and healthy.
10 — Legal Consideration
Before deciding to keep a parrot as a pet, it is crucial to be well-informed about various legal considerations to ensure the welfare of the bird and adhere to local, state, and national regulations.
Firstly, parrot species-specific regulations should be researched, as some are protected by laws such as CITES. Import and export regulations are also significant if you plan to acquire a parrot from a foreign country.
Additionally, local laws and regulations, like zoning laws and ordinances, may govern pet ownership, so consulting local authorities is essential. Most jurisdictions discourage the ownership of wild-caught parrots due to conservation and animal welfare concerns, favoring captive-bred parrots.
In case of adoption, be aware of any specific laws governing the process. When transporting your parrot, understand the transportation laws, especially for crossing borders. It’s also wise to consider liability and insurance issues, making sure you’re covered in case of accidents or damages caused by your parrot.
Noise regulations, microchipping, and identification laws can also apply, and knowing your responsibilities in these areas is essential.
Lastly, plan for your parrot’s future in case you can no longer care for it, which may involve legal arrangements like wills or trusts.
To navigate this complex legal landscape, seek guidance from local animal control agencies, wildlife departments, and avian veterinarians, and consider joining avian clubs for practical insights from experienced parrot owners.
Best Parrots to Keep as Pets at Home
The best pet parrot for you to keep depends on your lifestyle, experience level, and preferences. Here are some popular pet parrot species.
— Budgies
Budgerigars are often considered the best parrot pet for beginners due to their manageable size, affordability, sociable nature, trainability, and lifespan.
Their charming personalities and the ease of integrating them into your daily life make them an excellent choice for those looking to start their journey into the world of avian companionship.
Whether you’re a novice bird owner or simply seeking a feathered friend that’s adaptable to different lifestyles, budgies have a lot to offer as delightful and rewarding pets.
— Cockatiels
Cockatiels are considered exceptional parrot pets due to their friendly and affectionate nature, manageable size, playful disposition, speech abilities, low noise level, and long lifespan.
Their adaptability to various living situations and their eagerness to engage with their human caregivers make them an ideal choice for anyone seeking a delightful and enduring avian companion.
Whether you’re new to parrot ownership or an experienced bird enthusiast, a cockatiel will bring joy, laughter, and companionship into your life.
— African Grey
African Grey Parrots are often considered the best parrot pets due to their extraordinary intelligence, strong bonds with owners, longevity, exceptional mimicry and speech capabilities, moderate size, and playful personalities.
While they are a more demanding parrot species in terms of social interaction and mental stimulation, the rewards of having an African Grey as a pet are immeasurable.
Their wit, affection, and potential for forming a deep, lasting connection make them an excellent choice for experienced bird enthusiasts who are willing to invest time and effort in providing a stimulating and enriching environment for their feathered friend.
— Conures
Conures are often considered excellent parrot pets due to their lively and playful nature, strong social bonds, manageable size, colorful plumage, and adaptability.
Conures characteristics make them suitable for a broad range of bird enthusiasts, from those new to avian companionship to experienced bird owners looking for an energetic and affectionate feathered friend.
Conures can fill your home with laughter, vibrant colors, and a sense of joy, making them a popular choice for those seeking an interactive and spirited avian companion.
In Conclusion
Keeping parrots as pets can be a rewarding experience for those who are willing to invest the time and effort in providing these intelligent birds with a fulfilling and enriched life.
However, it’s a commitment that should not be taken lightly, as the welfare of these majestic creatures should always be the top priority.
If you decide to bring a parrot into your home, ensure you are ready for the adventure of a lifetime, filled with companionship, challenges, and the opportunity to form a unique and lasting bond with your parrot, one of nature’s most remarkable creatures.
You also need to appreciate that parrots vary in size, temperament, and care requirements.
So, before bringing a parrot into your life, it’s crucial to research extensively, consult with experts, and, if possible, visit avian rescue centers or sanctuaries to gain a better understanding of what parrot ownership entails.