10 Honest Truths About Owning A Parrot You Need To Know

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Parrots are fascinating companions, but owning one is no walk in the park. Their charm and intelligence might win you over at first glance, but living with a bird that outsmarts your locks, shreds your favorite chair, and outlives your retirement plan is another story entirely. Before you bring a parrot into your home, here’s a closer look at what you’re truly signing up for.

They Can Live Up To 80 Years

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With lifespans spanning 30 to 80 years, parrot species demand lifelong dedication from their keepers. This extended lifespan often surpasses traditional pets, meaning long-term planning for their well-being is necessary. It’s not unheard of for these birds to outlive their owners and need a new caregiver.

They Are Extremely Intelligent

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Parrots are clever and social creatures that need regular mental stimulation. They can develop behavioral issues such as feather plucking or aggression without adequate engagement. While seasoned parrot owners understand this aspect of the job, new owners may be overwhelmed by the time and attention needed.

Special Dietary Requirements

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A balanced diet for parrots includes a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts. Providing a diverse diet keeps them healthy and aids their longevity, but it requires consistent effort and knowledge. Their diets can be supplemented with specialized pellets to meet their nutritional needs.

They Can Be A Bit Noisy

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Parrots are naturally vocal and can produce loud calls, which may be disruptive in some settings. Cockatoos make as much as 135 dB of noise, about the same amount of noise an airplane makes on takeoff. Their propensity for noise requires owners to be tolerant and understanding of their natural behaviors.

They Can Chew Through Anything

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To maintain beak health and satisfy their instinct to chew, parrots often chew on various objects. This behavior calls for suitable toys and supervision to avoid household damage, which contributes to their maintenance demands. Several parrot owners have reported expensive items, family heirlooms, and furniture destroyed by their feathered friends.

They Need Space

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Parrots require ample space to accommodate their size and allow for natural behaviors like flying and climbing. Ensuring adequate space can be challenging and involves significant investment in appropriate housing. Stress and repetitive behaviors are some of the negative effects a small space can have on parrots.

Regular Veterinary Care

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Routine check-ups with a vet are essential to monitor and maintain a parrot’s health. Access to specialized veterinary care can be limited and costly, adding to the complexity of their upkeep. Like most birds, parrots suffer from infections and diseases that can turn fatal if left untreated. Some insurance companies insure exotic pets, saving owners money on vet bills.

Potential For Aggression

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Parrots may become aggressive when mature for several reasons, such as mishandling, frustration, and poor training. In such situations, they may resort to biting, which may cause serious injury. Proper training and socialization, especially from a young age, are important to mitigate these risks.

They Need Regular Grooming

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While parrots preen themselves, they still require regular grooming assistance, such as nail and beak trimming. These tasks often necessitate professional services to ensure they are done safely. Avian groomers who specialize in handling these tasks aren’t easy to come by, and a DIY approach is not advised because it could turn fatal.

They’re Always Looking For An Escape Plan

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Known for their intellect, parrots can perform remarkable feats using their beaks and claws. They learn quickly and can manipulate cage doors and other enclosures in no time. Without secure housing, they may escape, leading to potential harm or loss, thus requiring vigilant supervision and secure enclosures.