Parrot Care
Research
Do your research before getting a parrot! more
Adopt!
Caging
Provide the largest cage possible that gives your bird lots of room to move about, exercise and stretch their wings. NO CAGE IS TOO BIG as long as it has appropriate bar spacing for your bird's size!! Their cage should be filled with lots of toys, and safe natural branches, and still provide lots of space for your bird to move around. And don't forget they need out-of-cage time every day, in a "bird safe" environment where they can fly and explore safely while supervised. An indoor or sheltered outdoor aviary is a wonderful addition to a companion parrot's quality of life.
Branches and Toys
Parrots need to keep busy. Provide them with lots of appropriate safe toys, and fresh nontoxic natural branches. Click here for a list of safe indoor and outdoor plants.
Fresh water
Providing your parrot with clean drinking water is of the utmost importance for their health. Water should be changed daily at the very least, and throughout the day as needed. Many parrots like to make "soup" out of their water by putting their food and/or toys in their water bowls. They also need the opportunity to take baths or shower frequently. In the wild, they shower in the rain and bathe in puddles and wet leaves. Many come from tropical environments with there is high humidity. They need the water to keep their feathers in good condition. It also benefits us by keeping the dust and dander they produce down to a minimum. . . less dusting and sneezing!
Proper Diet
Variety is key! Not just pellets, but fresh fruits, veggies, nuts, grains, and legumes, too! Ask your vet for advice on diets. You can also find out more by clicking here.
Learn about parrot behavior
Learning as much as you can about parrot behavior will help you and your parrot have a happier and healthier relationship. . . more
Companionship
Parrots live in flocks and are very social animals, and therefore they should not be left alone for long periods of time. If you don't have the time to spend with them . . . talking to them, playing with them, showering them, etc., then you should reconsider getting a parrot. They are much like children who never grow up! Ironically, your kids will grow up and "leave the nest," but your companion parrot never will! And remember . . . parrots are long-lived so you may be caring for this "child" for 60+ years!
A Special Vet
Keep in mind that parrots are wild animals and have special medical needs. A parrot should be seen only by veterinarians with expertise in avian medicine. All of our residents are seen by Scott Stahl, DVM and his wonderful staff at SEAVS located in Fairfax, VA. Dr. Stahl is board certified in avian practice. Click here to locate an avian veterinarian in your area.