Parrots can live from 15 to 50 years or more, depending on their native species and level of care. Because a parrot’s life expectancy requires lifelong human involvement, attorneys often urge pet parents to provide documentation. I plan for a parrot in my will..
So how long do Are parrots alive? And why do they live so long?
Important points
- Small parrots typically live 8 to 15 years, while larger parrots can live 25 to 50 years or more.
- Parrots are incredibly intelligent and, if properly cared for, are usually very healthy animals.
- The most important factor in ensuring a long life for your parrot is comprehensive care, including proper diet.
- Parrots need a lot of care and bird toys to stay mentally stimulated and live long.
Average lifespan and aging of parrots
In general, the smaller the bird, the shorter its lifespan. Smaller birds, such as budgies, parakeets, and cockatiels, generally live only 8 to 15 years. Larger birds such as macaws and gray parrots can live 25 to 50 years.
Parrots are an incredibly diverse group of birds known by their scientific name psittacines. There are over 350 different species of parrots, some of the more common include:
The oldest known parrot was a blue and gold macaw named Charliewas at least 114 years old at the time of death. Charlie was truly an anomaly, but if the parrot is given great care, has good genes, and a little luck, it may be possible for the bird to reach old age.
Parrots usually don’t live as long in the wild as they do in captivity, and can live even half as long. The main causes of this shortened lifespan are predators, competition, and lack of veterinary care.
parrot life stages
All parrot species mature and develop at different rates.
Generally, parrots lay 2 to 8 eggs, which incubate for 2 to 4 weeks before hatching. Chicks hatch with their eyes closed and little or no downy hair. At this stage they are very vulnerable and require close attention from parrot parents.
Small parrots reach sexual maturity as early as six months, but larger parrots may take up to six years.
What factors affect a parrot’s lifespan?
Parrot species are arboreal birds that primarily live in tropical and subtropical regions. Although each species has slightly different nutritional and overall health requirements, they all have the common needs of a balanced diet, exercise and habitat space, and mental stimulation.
Although parrots have high metabolisms, they do not burn as many calories as wild parrots, which must forage for food and fly frequently. As a result, obesity and nutritional deficiencies are common in pet parrots. These problems are usually caused by poor nutrition and lack of exercise.
Work with your veterinarian to determine the optimal diet (often Compound pellets) Provide a balanced diet.
Signs of a healthy parrot
A healthy parrot is bright and alert. The parrot’s body is clean, with smooth and shiny feathers, without lumps or scales. There should be no secretions in the eyes or nose
If your parrot has runny eyes or nose, he may be suffering from one of the following:
If your parrot shows any unusual signs, see your local veterinarian immediately.
In addition to nutrition and health, mental health is also a major factor contributing to a parrot’s longevity. Lack of proper stimulation can lead to abnormal behaviors such as feather plucking, loss of appetite, and increased vocalization.
If you notice any problematic behavior, consult a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about parrots.
How to extend the lifespan of a parrot
Although species, size, and genetics all affect a pet parrot’s lifespan, malnutrition and improper care are the main causes of shortened lifespans.
Improving your care, including providing a balanced diet, is the best way to extend your parrot’s lifespan.
Always follow your veterinarian’s recommendations to extend your parrot’s lifespan. This often includes:
-
Avoid seed-based diets.
-
Provide a balanced formula pellet diet (80% of the diet).
-
Schedule regular veterinary visits, including blood tests.
-
provide as large a cage as possibleallowing the parrot to fully extend its wings.
-
If your parrot is roaming freely in your home, be aware of all potential dangers, including:
-
numerous offers toys, perches, and chews Caged in search of mental stimulation.
-
To strengthen your bond with your parrot and reduce abnormal behaviors such as feather plucking, socialize, train, and enrich your parrot as often as possible.
-
Sleep for 10 to 12 hours each night in a dark room.
Frequently asked questions about the lifespan of parrots
How long do parrots live in captivity?
The average lifespan of a parrot in captivity is 8 to 15 years, but larger parrots can live for 25 to 50 years or more.
Why do parrots live so long?
Parrots are very intelligent and have efficient metabolisms. As pets, they have no natural enemies that threaten them.
How old is the oldest living parrot?
The longest-lived parrot was named Charlie and lived to be 114 years old.
References
Eatwell BVSc(Hons), DZooMed(Reptiles), DECZM(Herp), MRCVS, Kevin. British Small Animal Congress 2011: Pet Birds. 2011.
McLeod DVM, Leanne. spruce pet. How long do pet parrots and other birds live?. 2023.
Guinness World Records. oldest parrot ever.
Johnson DVM, Dan. 2006 Atlantic Coast Veterinary Conference: Parrot Overview and Common Diseases. 2006.
Leck DVM, Dipl ABVP (Canine and Feline Practice), Susan. A quick reference guide to unique pet species: Pionus parrot pet care. 2011.
Pollock DVM, DABVP (Avian Medicine), Crystal. rubber vet. Basics of parrot anatomy. 2023.
