How delightful it is to be in the presence of such magnificent creatures as parrots! Their stunning color combinations, attention grabbing ability to talk, and amazing intelligence create quite an impression on both young and old alike.

Have you been thinking about buying a parrot of your own? Parrots are quite unlike any other pet and they have distinct attributes that make them both loveable and frustrating. Before you choose to own a parrot it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with some of their qualities to insure that they will fit with your lifestyle.

Life Span

Are you planning to commit to a pet for your entire lifetime? While a dog may average 10 to 15 years and a cat slightly longer, some species of parrots live up to 65 or 75 years! That means not only will the bird live as long as you, quite likely it will survive you. It's living arrangements will need to be provided for in advance.

Also, despite your loving commitment your bird will likely need a new home when you are no longer able to care for it. You don't want your bird, especially an aged one, to suffer the stress of constantly changing homes so determine what arrangements can be made to satisfy it's needs.

Parrots Are Messy

Yes, birds are messy - no matter what species. They make waste as they eat and in their natural world this doesn't present a problem. Your home is not the forest, so the scattering of food waste on a daily basis must be cleaned up. Not cleaning their cages and dishes daily can lead to infections or illness.

Parrots Are Destructive

Parrots that are allowed to roam freely can also cause extensive damage to furniture and other items. Large species like the Macaws and Cockatoos are not only inquisitive, but they have a strong bite and can chew furniture, rip wallpaper, etc. It's amazing what they are capable of getting into. Unless you are there to supervise, parrots should be kept in roomy cages for their safety and protection of your belongings. However, it's important to the well-being of a tame parrot to have as much time as possible outside their cage. It helps relieve boredom, keeps them from getting cage-bound and gives them a sense of freedom. A playstand they can't climb down from works well.

Parrots Make Noise

While you may find their calls and chattering adorable, your neighbors may not. Different species have different vocalizations. If you live in an attached or semi-attached housing you may have to rule out certain species like Cockatoos which are extremely loud.

Responsibility

Owning a parrot is a privilege and with that comes responsibility. Taking care of your bird does not have to be costly. But you must clean, feed, and provide proper housing so your bird is comfortable. Parrots are very intelligent and, therefore, can get bored easily. They deserve and must have access to bird toys, wood to chew and other activities designed to occupy their time.

If you have other pets, such as dogs or cats, you must protect your parrot from being harmed. Never leave other pets alone with your parrot.

Many parrots will also develop strong attachments for a certain individual in the family. While the growing loyalty may be appreciated by the favored person it can cause problems when birds become overly protective of their loved one. As mentioned, a parrot is a social and intelligent animal which will become easily bored. A busy home or single owner with plenty of time to spend with their parrot is best. Learn about the personality and sensitivity of the parrot species you are considering to be sure it will be a good fit with your lifestyle.

Unfortunately, many parrots find themselves in new homes every few years. Often this is due to the owner being unprepared for some of the challenges a parrot may present. Parrots undergo a good deal of stress when they must go to a new home. And the transfer sometimes leaves a caring owner with a sense of failure.

And last, remember that even a well-nurtured, hand-fed parrot is a highly adapted wild animal. Parrots are not domesticated like dogs and cats. When you bring your baby home it will be hard to understand this fact as they are so adorable, sweet and lovable. That doesn't mean they won't stay that way ... but it does mean that natural instincts are still a big part of who they are.

Parrots bring great joy to the lives of individuals who appreciate them despite the work involved. You owe it to your parrot, and yourself, to learn as much as possible about their care. Then you'll be prepared for your commitment to them and provide a loving home for as long as possible. When you do it right you'll reap immense rewards.