To say my family are animal lovers is an understatement. We’ve had almost every major pet type living in my home – reptiles, rodents, fish, birds, dogs and more. Having raised many different species, this article I cover why I think parrots have been the best pets for us.
Lifelong Companionship
One of the hardest parts of pet ownership (and life) is watching our companions get old and pass away. With many species, their lives are short compared to ours; Dogs are roughly 10-15, Cats 10-20, Chickens maybe 10 years, Fish and Rodents are often less than 5 years, etc.
It is a tremendous heartache that, if possible, many would like to avoid. This is one of the top reasons for choosing a parrot. If you are looking for a lifelong companion then parrots are the best. Many species can live past 25 years and some even live into their 70s or 80s!
Parrots are not just pets; they really are more like life partners; my parrot Tango is definitely like my baby! 🥰
Parrots are Challenging
Owning a parrot isn’t easy, and that’s part of what makes it so rewarding.
If you are someone who loves a challenge, enjoys animal behavior and the spending lots of dedicated time with animals, then a parrots can be one of the best pets available.
These birds are smart – like really smart. They need mental stimulation, regular social interaction, training, and enrichment. Not only can parrots learn a large variety of tricks, but they also have brains that are capable of long-term memory, logic and thinking. They are much more complex than a fish that you can look at. Parrots will interact with you, test you, challenge your patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Did you know?
- Parrots with brains of 5–20 g show cognitive properties similar to those of great apes like chimpanzees with brains of about 400g. (Source)
- Researchers have suggested that intelligence is not only related to the size of the brain but also to composition and how it’s structured. (Source)
Laughter & Joy, Every Day
Parrots have a natural ability to make you smile or laugh! They are playful and loving by nature so can easily make you smile and turn the roughest days around. Whether it’s mimicking your voice, dancing crazily to music, their curious head tilts or even a little tantrum/argument, these birds are absolutely entertaining.
Parrots really have tremendous personalities and amazing way of expressing emotions just like people. If they aren’t feeling good, they might be more irritable that day. If they slept well, they might be in a better mood or more loving. Their unpredictability makes everyday different and a big part of the fun.
Even something as simple as silly photos can make you smile, here are some photos of Tango:
Parrots are not for everyone!
Parrots by no means are a pet for beginners. To learn more about some of the nuances of parrot ownership, be sure to read 10 Things you MUST know before getting a Parrot. That said, for the right person, parrots can be the best companions.
If love a challenge and enjoy growing through a complex and deep emotional connection – ✅Check, a parrot will push you to become more observant and empathetic. They will also show an intense love for the family.
If you love fun and laughter – ✅Check, these little birds definitely have it in them with the right amount of time, emotional security and care.
Keep the Conversation Going!
