Frequently Asked Questions

Some help with commonly asked parrot questions

Q: How long do parrots live?

A: Each species of parrot has a different projected life span. Cockatiels are living 10-25 years. Smaller parrots such as Conures or Caiques can live up to 35 years, while a medium sized parrot like a Amazon or African Grey could live 50 or more. There have been known cases of Macaws living almost 100 years! Avian medicine is improving with every year, and helping these numbers increase. These numbers should be taken very seriously when deciding to adopt a parrot.

Q: Why should I clip my parrots wings?

A: Living with people can be very hazardous for a parrot. There are so many ways to escape if they have the ability to fly. They also could fly into a ceiling fan, hot stove, toilet, etc.. There are those people that can handle their parrot flighted, but it does take some skill and real caution. We find many parrots that flew away. Some aren't found until it's too late

Q: What makes a parrot a parrot?

A: There is only one thing that puts a bird in the parrot family. They have the ability to hold their food in their foot, and bring it to their mouth. No other bird is capable of doing this. All other birds have to bring their beak down to their food. There are some other things that make them different from your garden variety back yard bird. They have a hook bill, and have two toes forward and two back.

Q: What parrot is right for my family?

A: That can't be answered easily. There are many things to consider when choosing a parrot. Do you live in an apartment? Even small parrots can be very noisy. Do you have small children whom you would like to handle the bird? How much room do you have for a cage and play area? Can I afford the up keep after the initial large investment? We don't believe that you can say oh this parrot is good for this or that. They all have such different personalities. At PAEP we try very hard to get to know each person that wants to adopt through us. We definitely get to know the parrots. We then try to match you up with a parrot that will be the best for you and for them. We want all to be happy.

Q: Isn't it best to buy a hand fed baby?

A: No. While it can be fun to buy a sweet little baby, there can be many problems with it. You should NEVER buy an unweaned baby ever! We also like to see the mother actually do most of the feedings herself. The baby should also be fledged (taught to fly) before you get it. These things make a much more confident parrot, thus a better pet. Sweet babies can turn into terrible toddlers, and then hormonal teenagers. These things can be very difficult to handle if you are not educated on the subject. This is most often why we have people give up their birds to us. This is an important part of our program, helping people through these times, to ensure a long happy life with their parrot. We also believe it is grand to adopt a parrot that needs a home!