How to Choose a Healthy Parrot: 10 Red Flags to Avoid When Buying

Introduction: Why Choosing a Healthy Parrot Matters

Bringing a parrot into your home is a 20-60 year commitment, depending on the species. Selecting a healthy bird from the start is crucial to ensuring a long, happy life together and avoiding heartbreaking health issues or behavioral problems down the road. Unfortunately, many well-intentioned buyers unknowingly purchase sick or poorly socialized birds from disreputable sources, leading to costly veterinary bills, emotional stress, and sometimes even the loss of their new companion.

This comprehensive guide will teach you how to identify a healthy parrot, recognize warning signs of illness or poor breeding, and find a reputable source for your feathered friend. Whether you're considering a Macaw, African Grey, Cockatoo, or other species, these principles apply across all parrots. By the end, you'll be equipped to make an informed decision and welcome a thriving parrot into your family.

"Up to 60% of health issues in newly purchased parrots are preventable with proper selection and initial care. The first 48 hours in a new home are critical for a parrot's long-term adjustment and health." - Association of Avian Veterinarians

10 Signs of a Healthy Parrot

Before we discuss red flags, let's establish what a healthy parrot looks like. When evaluating a potential new bird, observe these positive indicators:

1. Bright, clear eyes: No discharge, redness, or squinting. The eyes should be fully open and alert.
2. Smooth, glossy feathers: No bald patches, excessive molting, or discoloration. Feathers should lie flat against the body.
3. Clean nostrils: No nasal discharge or crustiness. The cere (area above the beak) should be smooth and appropriately colored for the species.
4. Clean vent area: No fecal matter clinging to the feathers around the cloaca. The area should be dry and free of redness.
5. Active and alert demeanor: The bird should be curious about its surroundings, not lethargic or puffed up for extended periods.
6. Good appetite: A healthy parrot will show interest in food and eat regularly throughout the day.
7. Well-formed droppings: Normal droppings have three components: green/brown fecal matter, white urates, and clear urine. Learn more about healthy bird droppings.
8. Quiet, even breathing: No wheezing, clicking, or tail bobbing with each breath. A healthy parrot breathes silently at rest.
9. Balanced posture: The bird should stand upright on its perch, not hunching or favoring one foot.
10. Clean, smooth beak: No overgrowth, discoloration, or peeling. The upper and lower beak should align properly.
11. Healthy weight: You should be able to feel the keel bone (breastbone) with a thin layer of muscle over it, not prominent or buried under fat.

10 Red Flags to Avoid When Buying a Parrot

Now that you know what to look for in a healthy bird, here are the warning signs that should make you walk away from a potential purchase:

Reputable Breeder Checklist: What to Look For

Finding a trustworthy breeder is just as important as selecting a healthy bird. Use this checklist to evaluate potential sources:

• Specialization in 1-2 species: Breeders who focus on specific species (like African Greys or Macaws) typically provide better care than those breeding many types.
• Clean, spacious aviaries: Birds should have ample space, natural light, and enrichment. Avoid overcrowded or dirty facilities.
• Hand-raised babies: Properly socialized birds are handled daily from a young age and are comfortable with human interaction.
• Health testing: Reputable breeders test for common avian diseases like Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) and Avian Polyomavirus.
• Transparent about lineage: Should provide information about the parents' health, age, and temperament.
• Offers post-purchase support: Willing to answer questions and provide guidance after you take your bird home.
• Provides starter supplies: Often includes a care package with the bird's current diet and familiar toys.
• Asks YOU questions: A good breeder will want to ensure their birds go to knowledgeable, prepared homes.
• Member of avian organizations: Look for affiliation with groups like the American Federation of Aviculture (AFA).
• Offers health guarantee: Typically 30-90 days, with provisions for veterinary care if issues arise.
• Encourages pre-purchase vet visit: Willing to let you take the bird to an avian vet before finalizing the sale.
• Provides dietary information: Should give detailed instructions on the bird's current diet and any special requirements.

How to Avoid Parrot Scams When Buying Online

Online parrot scams have increased by over 200% in the past five years, according to the Better Business Bureau. Protect yourself with these tips:

1. Research extensively: Look for reviews on multiple platforms. Check the Better Business Bureau and avian forums for complaints.
2. Request video calls: Insist on live video showing the bird, its environment, and the breeder handling it.
3. Never send money without a contract: Legitimate sellers will provide a detailed sales agreement outlining health guarantees and return policies.
4. Avoid "too good to be true" prices: Rare or expensive species sold at bargain prices are almost always scams.
5. Use secure payment methods: Credit cards or PayPal offer fraud protection. Never use wire transfers or gift cards.
6. Beware of emotional manipulation: Scammers often create urgency ("limited time offer") or pull at heartstrings ("bird needs a home immediately").
7. Verify shipping processes: Reputable sellers use specialized bird shipping services with climate control and proper documentation.
8. Check for USDA licensing: In the U.S., breeders shipping across state lines must be USDA licensed.
9. Ask for references: Reputable breeders will provide contact information for previous satisfied customers.

Common scam red flags include:

• Seller claims to be "deployed overseas" and needs you to pay for special shipping
• Request for "deposit" or "insurance" before you've seen the bird
• Poor grammar and spelling in communications
• Unable to provide current photos or videos of the specific bird
• Pressure to complete the sale quickly

The Importance of an Avian Vet Check Before Purchase

Even if a bird appears healthy, a pre-purchase examination by an avian veterinarian is crucial. This exam should include:

• Physical examination: Checking eyes, ears, beak, feathers, wings, legs, and vent
• Fecal test: Screening for internal parasites
• Blood work: Complete blood count and chemistry panel to check organ function
• DNA sexing: Important for proper naming and understanding potential behavioral traits
• Disease testing: PBFD, Polyomavirus, Chlamydia, and other species-specific tests
• Weight check: Ensuring the bird is at a healthy weight for its species and age
• Microchipping: Permanent identification that proves ownership
• Beak and nail trim: If needed, to start your bird off with proper grooming

A pre-purchase exam typically costs $150-$300 but can save you thousands in potential veterinary bills. Many reputable breeders will credit this cost toward the purchase price or require it as part of their sales agreement.

Species-Specific Considerations

Different parrot species have unique health considerations. Here's what to look for in popular companion parrots:

African Greys

Prone to calcium deficiency and respiratory issues. Look for:

• Bright red tail feathers (in Congo African Greys)
• No signs of feather plucking (common in stressed Greys)
• Clear speech ability (if older than 1 year)

Macaws

Watch for beak overgrowth and feather quality issues. Healthy Macaws should have:

• Vibrant, uniform feather coloration
• Strong, properly aligned beaks
• Playful, curious demeanor

Cockatoos

Known for emotional sensitivity. Healthy Cockatoos display:

• Bright, erect crests when excited
• No signs of self-mutilation
• Willingness to interact with people

Conures and Small Parrots

Generally hardy but watch for:

• Clear, bright eyes (no discharge)
• Active, playful behavior
• No signs of mites around the eyes or vent

Preparing for Your New Parrot: Essential Supplies

Before bringing your new parrot home, gather these essential supplies:

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion: Your Path to a Lifelong Companion

Choosing a healthy parrot is the first step in what will hopefully be a decades-long companionship. By educating yourself on what to look for, knowing the red flags to avoid, and taking the time to find a reputable source, you're setting both yourself and your future feathered friend up for success.

Remember that bringing a parrot into your home is a significant commitment that requires proper nutrition, training, and emotional care. The effort you put into selecting the right bird will be rewarded with a loving, intelligent companion that enriches your life for years to come.

If you're ready to take the next step, explore our available parrots or contact our avian specialists for personalized guidance. We're here to help you find the perfect healthy parrot for your family.