Well cared for parrot birds tend to be long lived. Explore the potential life span of the parrot species you are interested in and plan to provide proper care for you bird over its entire life span.

As a general rule, the larger the bird, the longer its life span. Below you'll see  some estimated life spans for common parrots and pet birds. These estimates are based on a healthy bird kept under ideal conditions. 

Keep in mind that this list is an estimate only. Keeping parrots as pets is relatively new and much more research is needed on the life expectancy of parrots, particularly when it comes to the larger parrots.

Factors Influencing the Life Expectancy  About Parrots

Many factors influence the life expectancy of a captive parrot. Genetic makeup plays a role, just as it does people. While you have little control over the heredity of your pet, getting a parrot from a reputible breeder or a rescue such as The Gabriel Foundation that conducts a thorugh health exam will provide peace of mind.

One of the major factors contributing to your parrots health is a healthy diet.  A parrot that is fed a quality bird food such as Harrison's Bird Food supplemented with grains, nuts, and fresh fruits and vegetables will in all likelihood outlive a bird that is only fed bird seeds.   A proper balance of protein, vitamins, minerals, and fats is essential to the well-being and longevity of any bird. The old adage ‘you are what you eat’ applies to birds, too.  Parrots need natural sunlight or full spectrum lighting, too.  Full spectrum bird lights will assist in parrot longevity.

A propert amount of sleep also contributes to parrot longevity.  Parrots need a minimum of 8 - 10 hours of sleep per night in a area.  Providing a quiet area and a bird bed will help your parrot maintain it's immune system and feel perky during the day.

Getting a baseline health history and providing regular health checkups with an avian veterinarian is insurance for your parrots health  Parrots are prey animals and in the wild, weak or ill parrotsare more readily preyed upon, so captive parrots vigilantly conceal signs of illness.  You will need to be a detective to determine if your parrot is ill. Learn about Avian First Aid with Dr. Burkett's important DVD. Invest in a bird scale to monitor for weight loss at least weekly and observe parrot droppings for changes on a daily basis.

Cleanliness is another important consideration in proper bird care. Bird Cages, bird perches, food bowls, bird toys and bird stands must all be cleaned and disinfected regularly using bird-safe products like AviClean Aviary Cleaner or Pet Focus.  Change your bird’s water as often as necessary, even if this is several times a day. Harmful bacteria grow quickly in water and can sicken your bird. Likewise, rinse all fruits and vegetables, and never feed your bird overripe or spoiled food. Remove all uneaten food within a few hours.

Clip your birds flight feathers to minimize the risk of loss or accidents. Birds that do not have their flight feathers clipped can easily escape through an open window or door. Birds left on a front porch or deck can be harmed or killed by dogs, cats or other predators. 

Other Issues About Parrots

If you acquire your parrot during your early adult years, it is logical that your parrot will be a partner in your of important life experiences, such as marriage, children, illnesses, and career and home changes. Keep your parrot well socialized so that it has the self confidence and social skills to adapt to new people and situations. If your parrot accompanies you on short trips and is introduced to guests in your home, for example, your bird will more readily adjust to changes over the course of its life and yours.

The probability that your parrot will outlive deserves serious consideration. The reality is that by the time a person is settled and able to afford a parrot, he or she may be middle-aged. If a 50 year old adopts a young parrot, the odds are that the owner will die before the bird. You should consider how your bird will be cared for if the event of your death. No one likes to think about these matters, but owning a parrot requires assuming responsibility for the life of your pet, even if it extends beyond your own. It is a special privilege and a joy to spend a lifetime with a parrot, but it is also a huge responsibility.