Parrot

Overview

They squawk, they talk. They're smart and sensitive. They're beautiful and they'll be your best friend. We're talking about the larger members of the parrot family, considered by many to be the ultimate avian companions. This group includes a variety of species, from 12- to 20-inch African greys and electus parrots, to 20- to 36-inch umbrella cockatoos and scarlet macaws. Having a parrot as a pet is a major investment in time, money and love, but if you're up for the challenge, the returns on your investment are priceless.

Consider your entire household before making a decision

It's also important to think about the other members of your family before bringing a parrot home. Do you have any other companion animals? Unless they've been raised together, parrots and dogs and cats (and other smaller birds, for that matter) don't always get along. Parrots are also not recommended if you have small children. Macaws, for example, have incredible beak strength, and could do serious harm to a child too young to understand how to behave around birds. Is anyone in the family prone to allergies? Bird dander poses problems to many allergic individuals, and the larger the bird, the more dander he'll produce. And finally, keep in mind that some species live for more than 50 years. Can you ensure a loving home for your parrot's lifetime?

Tips on proper parrot care

In the wild, parrots live in large flocks and fly many miles each day. They also bond with a mate. All this means a companion avian will need lots of space, including a cage at least four feet high and several feet across. Parrots also need at least an hour of exercise in a safe, secure room every day. Do you have the time to tame and train your bird, and make sure he's mentally stimulated? Toys may help keep him occupied, but what he really needs is lots of attention. Parrots form strong bonds with their human family members, and without enough attention, a bird can become extremely bored and stressed, and may exhibit negative behaviors such as screeching, biting and feather picking or plucking. If you travel a lot or are away from home a lot, a large parrot is not a good choice.

Talking parrots

Got your heart set on a bird who talks? Keep in mind that abilities vary among individuals, but in general, African greys, Amazons, electus and macaws are the best talkers. And if your bird isn't a talker, he'll still have a lot to say. Large parrots are very vocal and can be loud. If the screeching and squawking is music to your ears, that's great. Be sure to consider the ears of your neighbors, particularly if you share walls with them.

Do the research

If you're positive that a parrot is the pet for you, research the pros, cons and care of the particular species before you bring a bird home. Visit breeders and shops specializing in companion avians; talk to bird owners and members of local bird clubs. As many wild populations of parrots have been decimated by the pet trade, it is, in fact, illegal to buy or sell a wild-caught bird. Only domestic-bred, hand-fed tame birds should be kept as pets. And don't forget the adoption option. There are many large parrots out there waiting for a second chance at a good home; contact your local bird club or animal shelter for a referral to a bird rescue group.