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Is a Macaw the Right Pet for You – a Species-by-Species Review

Scarlet and Blue and Gold MacawsMany parrot enthusiasts view macaws as the ultimate avian pets.  Huge, personable, gorgeous and enormously intelligent, macaws seem to embody all that is desirable in a pet parrot.  However, macaw ownership is not to be undertaken lightly…while the rewards are great, there are many responsibilities and “downsides” to consider as well.

General Considerations

If you’ve ever been surprised by the volume of noise a budgie or lovebird can generate, consider what their massive relatives can do!  Macaw vocalizations must be heard to be believed.  I’ve observed Scarlet Macaws and others on Venezuela’s wide open grasslands, and have worked with them in huge zoo exhibits – even in these habitats, their calls were often deafening.  Highly social, it is in their nature to vocalize almost continually.  Read More »

Educational TV for Prospective Parrot Owners – a Petition to Animal Planet

Today I’d like to highlight an interesting new idea that could be of great benefit to parrots and parrot owners everywhere.  A petition posted on the Causes.com website asks the Animal Planet Network to air shows concerning the potential problems involved in parrot ownership, with a view towards reaching people before they purchase a parrot.  I was made aware of this important effort via George Sommer’s wonderful weekly column From the Parrot’s BeakGeorge’s updates, carried by the Boston Fish and Bird Examiner, are packed with husbandry tips, stories, links to conservation articles and much more –I heartily recommend signing up for his email mailing list. Read More »

Senegal, Meyer’s and other Poicephalus Parrots – Small Size but Large Rewards

Senegal Parrot
Most Poicephalus Parrots measure a mere 8-10 inches long, but they are “small” only in stature.  These stocky, pint-sized African natives offer some huge advantages over their larger cousins, and are excellent choices for those seeking a small bird with all the personality of an Amazon or African Gray.

General Characteristics

Poicephalus are, as a rule, a bit shy or even timid, especially in new surroundings or around strangers.  “Easy-going” is the description most commonly given by owners.  Acclimated individuals, however, are among the most affectionate of all parrots.   They seem to crave attention but are not prone to screaming– an extended neck or lowered head is a more common way of soliciting a scratch.  Poicephalus are excellent birds for patient folks seeking a companion that can be handled regularly.

Most species are well-suited to medium-sized parrot cages, with larger cages and outdoor aviaries being perfect for pairs or to provide extra room. Read More »

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