The Pionus parrots are native to Central America.Pionus have been kept in captivity for a long time and can make wonderful pets, but they need a lot of commitment to be a good owner.If you want to find out if a Pionus parrot is right for you, you can evaluate your lifestyle.
Step 1: Consider your long-term objectives.
Pionus parrots can live for up to 40 years, even though they don't live as long as some other parrot species.You need to be ready for a long-term commitment.A Pionus parrot is not a good choice if you plan to move frequently, leave for college or the military, or travel frequently.If you rent, make sure your landlord will allow a pet bird.
Step 2: Will you be able to be at home 3-4 hours a day?
Pionus parrots need a lot of supervised playtime outside of their cages.Make sure you give your parrot at least 3-4 hours of free-range time a day.If you have a busy schedule or travel frequently, it might be a good idea to talk to pet-sitters before buying a bird.
Step 3: If other people in your household want a Pionus parrot, you need to check it out.
If you have a parrot in the house, make sure everyone is okay with it.Pionus parrots can be very close with one person.It is important that anyone living with you understands that the bird may not like them.
Step 4: Food, equipment, and veterinary care have a budget.
Pets can be expensive.They need a large, strong cage, toys, special food, and specialized veterinary care.It's a good idea to look at prices in your area before you buy a bird.The internet, pet supply stores, and your local vet are all good resources for realistic prices.Pionus cannot be fed any old bird seed.They need a special diet consisting of seeds, flowers, and corn.If you can't afford to take care of a Pionus, you might want to consider other options.
Step 5: At least 3 feet (0.91) m wide and 5 feet (1.5 m) tall is needed for a cage.
Pionus parrots need large cages.If you want your parrot to spread its wings and fly from one end to another, your home needs to be at least 3 feet wide and 5 feet tall.
Step 6: Lots of toys.
If you are going to be out of the house a lot, Pionus parrots need lots of stimulation.Enough toys will keep them mentally active.The parrots like swings, bells, and food puzzle toys.
Step 7: You can find a vet nearby.
If you want to get a Pionus parrot, you need to make sure the vet is willing to treat it.Birds require a special vet, so make sure you have one lined up before the event.
Step 8: Bird-proof your entire home.
It is important to bird-proof your house in case Pionus parrots get out or are left unattended.You have to make lifestyle changes to keep your bird safe.Birds are exposed to fumes from nonstick pans.If you get a bird, use cast iron.Birds can chew on electrical cords, so make sure all the cords in your house are covered with cord guards and kept out of reach.When your bird is out of its cage, make sure all windows and doors are closed.Birds can be killed flying into glass if windows and doors are covered with blinds, drapes, or decals.Make sure all escape routes are blocked.You should keep your house between 65 and 80 F.Extreme heat or cold can be fatal to parrots.
Step 9: If you want a bird that can talk, you have to decide.
Pionus parrots are great potential pets for apartment or condo dwellers because they are much quieter than other parrots.Pionus may not be the best choice if you want a parrot that can talk to you.
Step 10: If you want a bird that's friendly, ask yourself.
Pionus parrots are standoffish and often bond with one person.They don't like human interaction as much as other birds.Pionus will not be a good fit if you want a bird that will hop from person to person and seek out human company.
Step 11: You can choose which species you want.
Pionus parrots are sold as pets.There are some personality differences between species, but the main differences are in the feather colors.White-Crowned Pionus parrots have white feathers on their heads.They are more social than other Pionus family members.The most popular Pionus have a green body with a blue head.The Pionus is mostly blue with bronze-green iridescent wings.The Dusky Pionus is a less flashy bird that is bronze and green all over.The loudest Pionus parrot is this one.Pionus is light gray, pale green, and light blue.A Maximilian is a good choice for a first time parrot owner.They talk more than other parrots.
Step 12: If you want a male or female Pionus, you have to decide.
You can't tell the difference between male and female parrots by looking at them, but a male Pionus is more likely to be aggressive.If you have a sex preference, it's a good idea to tell your breeder. Pionus parrots need to be examined by a vet to determine their gender.Animals and people in the home may be attacked by an aggressive bird.
Step 13: If you can find a breeder that hand-rears its parrots, then you have found the right person.
Pionus parrots need to be hand-reared from a very young age.If you are interested in one, be sure to speak to a hand-reared bird breeder.Pionus may never bond to you or allow itself to be handled.