Buying your first parrot is an exciting and significant decision. Parrots are not like other pets — they are intelligent, long-lived, and emotionally complex creatures that require years of learning on the part of their owner. This guide gives you an honest picture of what first-time parrot ownership involves.
For most first-time owners, we recommend the following species in rough order of suitability:
We generally advise against macaws, cockatoos, or Amazons as a first parrot — not because they cannot be wonderful, but because their particular needs are best met by owners who have prior parrot experience.
The first two weeks after a parrot arrives are critical. Even a well-socialised, hand-raised bird needs time to adjust to a new home, new sounds, and new people. Give the bird space — allow it to observe its new environment from its cage before pushing for handling. Speak quietly, move slowly, and let the bird set the pace of interaction. Resist the temptation to show off the new bird to visitors immediately; this is stressful for a settling bird.
Costs vary widely by species and individual bird. Treat published ranges as planning estimates, request an itemised offer and verify which identification, provenance, veterinary and CITES records apply.
Rules depend on the species, transaction and location. Check the scientific species against current CITES and UK rules, ask the seller for the individual bird's identification and provenance records, and verify any required commercial-use certificate or movement permit before payment.
Start with a high-quality species-appropriate pellet as the dietary foundation (50–60%), supplemented with fresh vegetables, a small amount of fruit, and minimal seeds. Avoid avocado, chocolate, onion, garlic, and caffeine — all toxic to parrots.
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