A Beginner’s Guide to Pet Parrots

Parrots are known to be intelligent birds, but aspiring pet owners will be delighted to find out that there are even more reasons why they make great pets. For example, our article on “Excellent Parrot Care Tips highlights that parrots’ tongues are intricate sense organs that allow them to make sounds and “talk” to humans. On top of that, parrots rarely fly long distances, so bird lovers can provide them with enough room for flight within their own homes –– without feeling like they’re constraining the magnificent animals.

Because parrots are exotic animals however, beginners have to learn about their care requirements to ensure that they will remain happy and healthy as pets. If you’re thinking about adopting a feathered friend of your own, here’s what you need to know:

Species

There are numerous species of parrots, so pet owners need to consider which one will be best for their needs and preferences. Soon-to-be owners must look into species’ personalities and specific care requirements to determine the most suitable option for their home.

Since Amazon parrots are popular pet birds, professionals often recommend Panama Amazon parrots for families who want pets with a social and active nature. Meanwhile, Southern Mealy Amazons are a bit more laid-back, but they offer lots of affection for their owners.

Food

Once you’ve chosen your preferred species, you need to safeguard your pet’s health by understanding their diet. While it may be convenient to provide seeds or pellets, you need to prepare a combination of pellets and fresh food to keep your pet in good health.

For a balanced diet, each meal must contain about 50% pellets. The remaining half must consist of fresh food, like raw vegetables and cooked whole grains. Be mindful that parrots should never be fed with meat, avocados, peanuts, seeds, or chocolate, and always explore specific dietary needs for the type of parrot you end up with.

Health

The right diet will give your pet parrot the nutrients that it needs. However, you also have to take your pet to routine veterinarian check-ups to help manage its health.

Because parrots are exotic animals, a post on exotic pet insurance by Sound Dollar, explains that coverage will ensure that you can cover higher veterinary fees in case of major accidents and illnesses. Insurance premiums may even be lower for your first pet, especially if they’re young and in good health. This investment can make the burden of managing relatively common illnesses like proventricular dilatation disease and psittacosis much lighter on both you and your parrot.

Home Environment

It’s important for parrots to take regular flights, since they need fun and exercise to remain healthy. But if it’s more convenient for you to put your pet in a cage, you have to position said cage in the right environment.

Unsuitable conditions can cause stress and respiratory problems for parrots, so All About Parrots recommends that cage placement should be in an area where it’s warm, yet not in direct sunlight or near harmful substances. Try to position the cage against two walls to mimic their nest cavities in the wild, which offer them protection against predators.

Temperament

Besides providing your pet parrot with a safe environment, you need to consider their temperament, as well as the tools that they need to remain happy in your home.

Because these birds are intelligent creatures, PetHelpful states that parrots need entertainment through toys and human interaction. Most parrot-type birds like to play with puzzles or chew toys, but check for any potential hazards before offering these items, and always supervise. Additionally, make time for social interactions by talking or even whistling to your pet.

Due to their loving and social nature, parrots can provide excellent company to pet owners. And as exotic as they are, with the right preparation and care you can look forward to a long and happy relationship with your parrot.