Exotic Bird Information

Exotic birds are large, colorful and highly intelligent. They are popular pets for all of these reasons, but come with some considerations. Some birds are destructive and loud, especially when they learn to talk. Large birds like parrots require additional room, interaction and nutritional support, and can live up to 100 years. Any potential owner should educate themselves and prepare their home before buying an exotic bird as a pet.

  1. Types

    • There are many different types of "exotic" birds, including Amazons, McCaws, African grays, Eclectus parrots and parakeets. Although they come from a wide array of different countries, exotic birds are uniformly larger than domestic pet birds like canaries and budgies and need far different living conditions, including more interaction, more toys and much more space.

    Origins

    • Exotic birds hail from many different places across the globe, including the jungles of Mexico, South America, the Amazon, Africa and even Australia. Exotic birds come from habitats that are warm, rainy and filled with lush jungles. Although many exotic birds are still captured in the wild and imported as pets, bird breeding is gaining ground. If you're purchasing an exotic bird, do so from a breeder who has bred and raised the bird him or herself and can vouch for the bird's health and history. Exotic birds may cost up to $2,000 as of 2010, depending on the type of bird.

    Cages

    • It's important for an exotic bird's cage to reflect not only its size but also its mental capacity and curiosity. According to Windy City Parrots, a parrot cage must be large enough for the bird to spread its wings. It must also be put in a safe, social place, and allowed out of its cage, preferably with human companionship, for several hours every day. The cage must be kept clean and equipped with a roof perch and at least 10 toys, which are available at pet stores and generally include blocks of different colors, mirrors, bells and ropes for chewing. Exotic birds do not require other bird companions, but do best with plenty of human interaction.

    Nutrition

    • Exotic birds generally have more extensive nutritional needs than smaller birds. African grays, for example, require more calcium and Vitamin D than domestic birds do. Supplement standard bird food with fresh fruits and vegetables for exotic birds to keep them healthy.

    Attention

    • Since many exotic birds are parrots, they require a higher degree of human interaction and mental stimulation to keep from getting bored. Give large exotic birds several hours of personal attention every day and keep them in places where they can observe the household to keep them entertained and happy.