Parrots as Pets

According to The Humane Society of the United States, pet birds, including different types of parrots, were the third most popular pet behind cats and dogs in 2010. There are over 350 kinds of parrots, ranging in size from the buff-faced pygmy at 3.2 inches tall to the hyacinth macaw at 3.3 feet tall. Parakeets, love birds, cockatiels, conures, and macaws are all in the parrot family. Many parrots can learn to mimic sounds, carry on conversations, and solve puzzles. Colorful, intelligent and beautiful, parrots are entertaining pets. But they are not for everyone, and there are many things you should consider before purchasing one.

  1. A Lifelong Pet

    • Scarlet macaws can live for eight years or longer.

      Parrots have a long life span in comparison to many other pets. Small parrotlets can for live 20 years or more, while larger birds like macaws can live to be 80 to 100 years old. In many cases, these birds can and will outlive their owners. So if you are thinking about a parrot, take into consideration the length of commitment that you are willing and able to make, and what will happen to your parrot if it outlives you.

    Cost

    • A parakeet is one of the less expensive parrots for you to buy, house, and feed.

      Cost is another factor in choosing a parrot as a pet. First there is the cost of purchasing your parrot. Generally speaking, smaller parrots, such as parakeets, are less expensive than the larger birds, like Amazon Grays. But your costs do not end with buying the bird; you will need to factor in other items. The cost of the cage for instance: an adequate cage for one of the large parrots can be over $1000. Then there is the cost of food. Parrots need a wide variety of food including pellets, vegetables, fruits, and grains. In addition, you will have to allow for toys, grooming supplies and occasional veterinary care for your parrot.

    Noise

    • Cockatoos have a reputation for being very loud.

      Noise is another consideration when purchasing a parrot. While budgies, lovebirds, and parrotlets are not very loud, most other parrots make a wide variety of raucous sounds. Many parrots learn to mimic sounds that they hear in their environments, while others seem happy just to screech at the top of their lungs. Often, the larger the parrot, the louder it is. A healthy parrot will make a lot of noise, so, especially if you live in an apartment, that can become a problem for both you and your neighbors.

    Time and Attention

    • Parrots need and enjoy time outside their cage for exercise.

      Parrots are very social creatures. They enjoy the company of their people and thrive on interaction with family members. Parrots who are left alone for long stretches of time can become depressed and lethargic. They may refuse to eat, or begin behaviors like feather pulling. In addition, parrots need supervised time out of their cages for exercise and mental stimulation.

    Cleanliness and Cage Care

    • Cage cleaning must be done on a regular basis.

      Parrots are messy birds. They scatter food and feathers indiscriminately around their cage area. Their cages also need to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected regularly. Owners must be careful when cleaning around parrots -- they are very sensitive to the fumes in many household products, such as bleach, spray disinfectants, and air fresheners. These items as well as cigarette smoke, and even the fumes given off by nonstick pans during cooking, can be toxic to them.

    Human Health Concerns

    • Parrot feathers can complicate asthma symptoms.

      Parrots can transmit chlamydiosis and avian tuberculosis to people. This is of particular concern for individuals with compromised immune systems. In addition, feathers and feather dust can increase respiratory symptoms in people who suffer from asthma.