How to Buy a Macaw

Macaws' friendly personalities make these birds great pets. Before you buy one, you should know that it likes to be the center of attention. A healthy bird should live for a long time. When you decide to buy a macaw, consider these tips.

Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase the cage. Set it up before your purchase the bird. It's less stressful on your macaw to have a new home already waiting for it.

    • 2

      Shop around for your macaw. There are breeders and pet shops that specialize in macaws. Look for signs the bird has been well cared for by its owner.

    • 3

      Consider a young macaw instead of an older one. Sometimes an older bird has learned bad habits that may be hard to break. You can bond with a young bird from the beginning of its life.

    • 4

      Make sure your bird is healthy. The macaw should have shiny bright eyes that are open and blink to show its alertness. Its feathers should be smooth and its nostrils free from discharge. Check for firm and not runny droppings.

    • 5

      Consult an avian vet regarding the bird's overall health. Many breeders provide certificates of hatch and health papers.

    • 6

      Purchase the same food for your macaw that it's currently eating when you buy it. Let the bird settle in to its new home before altering its diet. Change your macaw's diet gradually.