Parrots are wonderful pets, but they are not for everyone.Many parrots end up homeless because their owners don't make good choices.Before welcoming a parrot into your home, it is important to know whether you can provide the necessary care and attention that parrots require and if you are able to afford the costs of keeping a parrots healthy and happy.Knowing what sort of time, financial, and emotional commitment you are making to care for a parrot will help you to decide if it is right for you!
Step 1: Consider the different types of parrots
In terms of size, color, lifespan, and habits, parrots vary a lot.Understanding the differences between these birds and knowing what to expect in terms of their cost, care, and habits is crucial to deciding which, if any, is the right one for you.Budgies and small Parakeets are best for beginners.They are cheaper and have shorter lifespans.Medium-sized parrots are a bit bigger, make a little more noise, and can live up to 40 years.Larger parrots require more space, more food, and more interaction than smaller ones.Large parrots are loud, costly, and can live long lives.They need a lot of attention and space.
Step 2: You can find local parrot owners through groups online.
If you have any close to you, you should look into parrot sanctuaries.Many of these have classes on parrots that are a good resource to first time bird owners or people looking into adopting an older bird.The personality of a baby parrot is not guaranteed.Like with a child, you experience babyhood, puberty, young adult, and then adult stages of life.
Step 3: You can find a good pet store that has birds.
Spending time with parrots is a good way to see what it would be like to own one.Since each parrot has its own personality, this is an opportunity to get to know some of them.The better equipped you are to make a responsible decision about owning a parrot, the more time you can spend with them.Adult parrots act differently than baby parrots.They are more friendly and interested in cuddling.
Step 4: Think about why you want a parrot.
A parrot is a complex and misunderstood animal.If you are looking at a parrot because of its appearance, don't waste time or money.Parrots are intelligent additions to your family and need the right attention, activity, and diet.A lifetime commitment of time and energy is required to care for a parrot.
Step 5: Prepare for an animal that is playful and social.
In addition to training, parrots want daily interaction and stimulation.It is not a good idea to keep a parrot in your home all day.Larger birds need more training than smaller ones.Handling a parrot can lead to behavioral and health problems.While a cage is a necessity and a home for a parrot, this doesn't mean that they're happy in them.All parrots need large cages for them to be active.They like to be handled and may be able to mimic sounds.Smaller parrots have a quieter call than larger parrots, but they still make a lot of noise.Most parrots are not good for people who live in apartments.The parrots bite to communicate that they don't like what's happening to them.If you don't like being bitten or the idea of working with a bite on your face, a parrot may not be right for you.As a defense mechanism that evolved in the wild, parrots do not show signs of illness unless they are extremely sick.The early signs of illness can be caught by a caring and attentive bird owner.
Step 6: Expect a lot of cleaning.
There is no such thing as a messy parrot.Parrots can throw food and poop all over the place.They'll make a mess.The parrot cage should be on a hardwood or tile floor.The cage will be vacuumed or mopped daily.You will need to wash bowls and toys daily.
Step 7: Know what birds eat.
The core of the parrot diet consists of pellets, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains.It's a great way to show your love for your parrots.It's a great way to expand their eating options and habits.Almost anything humans eat, including cooked meat and fish, can be eaten in moderation by parrots.
Step 8: There is a budget.
It is possible to determine if you are able to provide the care and conditions that a parrot needs by looking at startup and recurring costs.Initial costs for a small parrot could be between $110 and $150.Initially, larger parrots could cost up to $11,000.
Step 9: Get the initial costs.
You will have to consider the cost of the parrot at the beginning.Most people spend between $50-$2,500 for a hand-fed baby parrot.There is a cage.The cost of cages is between $35 and $1,000.It can be expensive, but think of it as an investment.The purchase of a cage and other essentials will last a long time.You should rethink the purchase of the parrot cage if you can't afford it.There are food and water bowls.Three bowls should be in the cage at all times, one for fresh water and two for the regular diet.If you want, you can add a fourth bowl.
Step 10: Subtract recurring costs from the total.
The cost of a parrot's upkeep has to be considered in addition to startup costs.You should be prepared to spend regularly on food.Fresh food and seeds will cost between $10 and $60 a month.There are toys.Happy and healthy parrots chew and destroy items.You should buy a variety of toys that are appropriate for your parrot.Replacing toys will cost between $10 and $40 per month.The cardboard boxes and empty toilet rolls work well.There are cleaning supplies.A dustpan and brush, as well as carpet cleaner, are musts.Trips to a vet.A typical annual checkup will cost between $50 and $75, while an exam if the bird is sick or requires medication could cost up to $500.Real emergencies could cost a lot.If the need arises, you need to have the financial ability to pay high veterinary bills.Avian medicine is more expensive than other domestic pets.