Parrots: Intelligent and Personable Pets
Parrots are highly intelligent birds that can be great pets for people who have time to spend with them. They need at least two hours of interaction per day, and plenty of toys to keep them entertained.
Sharing your home with a Parrot is a major commitment. Small Parrot species can live up to 20 years, and large species can live 70 years or longer. They need a large cage, and most Parrots want to spend a few hours outside of their cage every day. People who provide a healthy and happy environment for their Parrot are likely to develop a strong mutual bond with their pet.
Looking for Parrots for sale? The inventory at Uncle Bill’s stores changes often, so please call your nearest location to ask about our adoptable birds.
Parrot Habitat
A Parrot cage should be no smaller than 18” x 22” x 24” with an assortment of perches throughout, and larger birds may need larger cages. The cage should be at or slightly below eye level (if the cage is above eye level, Parrots may decide they’re superior to their caretakers, which can lead to behavioral problems). Keep a Parrot’s cage away from drafts or open windows.
Provide fresh water daily (ideally, in a water bottle affixed to the cage – water dishes are difficult to keep clean). Give Parrots plenty of toys that are safe to chew, along with a hiding place inside their cage. Covering the cage at night helps Parrots sleep and protects them from drafts.
Parrots need time outside of their cage daily and enjoy perching on a T-stand or playing in a playpen. Always monitor Parrots when they are out of their cage – if they become bored, they may decide to chew on things that aren’t Parrot toys!
Parrot Diet
A nutrient-rich diet with a variety of foods is essential for a Parrot’s health. Parrots enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables, including dark leafy greens. They also like bird seed, but it should be a small part of their overall daily food intake.
Whole grains – such as unsweetened fortified cereal and brown rice – are an excellent source of fiber and carbohydrates, as well as a source of energy for active metabolisms. Commercial pelleted diets are highly nutritious, but some birds will not eat them unless pellets are gradually added to their daily menu. Feed Parrots a small serving of cooked beans (plain, with no added ingredients) on occasion. Do not feed avocado to Parrots – it is toxic for all birds.
Is a Parrot Right for Me?
Parrots are wonderful pets if their caretaker has plenty of patience and ample time to train and interact with them. Parrots aren’t boisterous all day long, but they tend to be loud in the morning and around sunset, and they may be more vocal when they crave attention.
In a loving home, a Parrot may form a strong bond with its human family, but it may take time for a Parrot to feel truly comfortable. The Uncle Bill’s staff can provide tips on how to establish trust with your Parrot and answer any questions you may have about caring for your new pet.
If you’re interested in an African Grey Parrot, Quaker Parrot, or Sun Conure, Uncle Bill’s may have a pet for you! Feel free to contact one of our stores for availability!