What Should My Parrot Be Eating?
This is an age old question whose answer has changed so much over the years. Of course it would. For centuries, bird enthusiasts and pet
As a nonprofit organization dedicated to parrot rescue and rehoming, we’re often asked, “how much does a parrot cost?” or “how much do parrots cost in total?” These questions, while seemingly simple, open up a much larger discussion about the cost of a parrot, both in monetary terms and in the requirements for adequate care and attention. Unfortunately, both of these aspects are often overlooked by prospective pet owners when they fall in love with a parrot. In this article, we’ll share valuable information about the real cost of owning a parrot as a pet.
When considering parrot ownership, it’s crucial to understand the upfront cost of a parrot. Buying a parrot can range anywhere from $35 to several thousand dollars depending on the species (there are nearly 400!). Larger, more exotic species such as macaws or cockatoos often come with a higher price tag (usually a couple of thousand dollars). However, the purchase price is just the beginning of understanding how much a parrot costs. Let’s look at the other expenses associated with owning a parrot.
Parrots need a spacious and sturdy cage, which can range from $100 to over $1,000. Additionally, your feathered friend will appreciate some toys, perches, and hiding spots within their cage. The total cost for these items can range from $50-$200 initially and $30-$50 for replacements each month.
Parrots thrive on a varied diet of high-quality pellets, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Depending on the size and species of your parrot, you can expect to spend between $20-$60 per month on food.
Routine veterinary care is a must for any pet, and parrots are no exception. An annual checkup — which includes routine blood work — can range from $100-$200. It’s important to factor in possible emergency care as well, which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
While not a monetary cost, the significant time and attention parrots require cannot be overlooked. Parrots are highly social creatures that need several hours of interaction each day. Failing to provide this can lead to behavioral problems and health issues.
Over the course of a parrot’s life — which can be anywhere from 20 to 80 years depending on the species — the cost of a parrot can range from $5,000 to $30,000 or more. This estimation takes into account food, housing, toys, and regular vet care, but excludes any potential emergency medical expenses. As mentioned earlier, the exact price will depend on many different variables, including which species of parrot you buy (or better, adopt!), how many total birds you own, and more.
Parrot ownership is a major commitment. The bond between a parrot and its owner is deep and profound, but it requires a lot of work. Parrots are intelligent and emotionally complex creatures that require mental stimulation, social interaction, and a stable environment.
Parrots who don’t receive the care and attention they need can develop behavioral and health problems. The emotional toll of a neglected or misunderstood parrot is hard to quantify, but it’s a real cost that potential parrot owners must be prepared for.
As a rescue organization, we encourage potential parrot owners to consider adoption. Not only can this reduce the cost of a parrot, but you’ll also be providing a loving home to a bird in need.
The cost of a parrot goes beyond the initial price tag. Owning one of these special birds also involves time, commitment, and a life-long responsibility. If you are truly ready for the joy and challenges that come with owning a parrot, we are here to support you every step of the way.
At Valleywide Parrot Rescue, our mission is to take in parrots and birds that are lost, losing their home, being neglected, or being abused. We rehabilitate them and then find them a new, loving, and caring forever home. We are a family-owned and operated rescue — this is not a store.
We believe that all birds need personalized environments in order to flourish, and we will come to you to rescue the birds. We operate and care for these birds in our own home and our parrots are encouraged to mingle with each other and are played with daily by our family. We will care for and nurture the birds until we find them a loving home. If you’re looking to rehome your pet bird or parrot, please reach out to us today! You can also learn more about what we do, support our crucial work with a donation, or check out more parrot-related content on our YouTube channel!
This is an age old question whose answer has changed so much over the years. Of course it would. For centuries, bird enthusiasts and pet
Why adopt a rescue?
In this article, we’ll delve into the myriad advantages of parrot adoption and the joys of having a pet parrot.
A Look at the Wonders and Responsibilities of Avian Companionship
The importance and steps to insure Your Parrot has a Future after You are gone
These are the BEST parrots to have if You live in a small home or apartment
Ben was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Definitely a top notch organization! Thank you so much!
My husband and I went with my mother in law so she could check out a rescue cockatoo here. I had recently lost my beloved Quaker parrot Sky, so I was not looking myself. But along came Oscar, who stole my heart. A shy but feisty Conure who gravitated right for me and wouldn’t leave me alone the entire time we were there. We went to leave, and I said “Goodbye pretty boy” (something I said to Sky each time I’d leave) and he made a maneuver with his one good wing precisely the way sky would to say goodbye and I knew our fate was sealed. They were wonderful getting me all set up and ready to take him home, and giving me as much backstory for Oscar as they could. They really have a nice, clean rescue set up here.
Big thank you to this rescue and Ben for the smooth adoption process with Lucky. He is the sweetest boy and we’re lucky to have each other! More than anything, I appreciate how cared for these birds are. Their needs are taken care of, but they are also emotionally invested in and so much care is put into their rehoming and future well-being. Every animal deserves this type of care. Thank you 😊
So grateful to have met Ben and Valley Parrot Rescue. With great sadness I surrendered a dear umbrella cockatoo today due to family health issues. She is a most loving bird and Ben was so adept in working with Angel. He has made my heart rending decision so hopeful and optimistic for Angel and my family's future. A great place to meet your next new family addition.
Very helpful, second time I brought a bird there and they took care of it .
What an amazing organization! Ben helped me so much at a time when I no longer could care for my bird. He took in my sweet little bird and found him a new home. I highly recommend Valleywide for adoptions and rescues.
I had come across this rescue by accident one day… I seen a parrot I fell in love with immediately. The sweet little guys name is plum. I worked mostly with Ben through my process and he was so sweet and answered every question I had never made me feel like a bother and trust me I asked him a lot of questions he prepared me for everything I needed to know about plums specific personality and his likes or dislikes. He made me feel welcomed and comfortable when I came in to meet plum. I felt he truly cares for his birds and really does want them to go to the best homes. You can tell all his birds are loved and the birds trust him. The birds are well cared for clean cages, food and water at all times. I am truly grateful to have found this rescue and found the perfect bird to make part of our family. I recommend anyone go here to find their new baby. I have been to other rescues where I felt very judged and was actually straight up judged didn’t just feel that way and demanded to do things. Like was told to sit like I was a dog. Anyhow, When I finally came to pick up plum for take home I met the rest of his crew who were just as nice and friendly they played with and talked to my 2 1/2 year old like she was there everyday. You could tell plum also trusted them as well. Such great people they all are ❤️ I love this team and I appreciate all they do for these lovely birds. You can tell they take so much time with them he knows exactly what each bird needs or what each bird does not like. That’s someone who cares
Ben was soooo helpful and knowledgeable about each bird that he introduced me to. I could see the birds reacting to his innate kindness just as he walked past the cages. The place was exceptionally clean, bright and full of positive energy. I was impressed with Ben’s knowledge and patience in answering so many questions. I already have my eye on one special little lady and will be coming back to see if she wants to come home. If you’re looking to adopt, you have go visit. Don’t forget to say hello to Martha and Stewart, such a funny cockatiel couple. Thank you Ben!!!!
Finley is awesome. The adoption process was great, and we appreciate the time you let us sit with him after his bath, so we knew he was the perfect guy for us. Thank you for all you do!
I recently had to rehome my yellow nape amazon and contacted Ben at Valleywide Rescue and he was able to accommodate my bird. It was very professional and he is very knowledgeable and made the transition easier for me. I highly recommend this organization. .
We adopted a bird for our son from here and it was an amazing process. Ben is so kind and considerate and takes this time to make sure that everyone is pleased. I highly recommend.
We got our cockatiel here, and it was a great experience! We were given plenty of time to bond with him and determine whether he was a good fit for our family. The owner is fantastic and clearly cares about what he does—giving these wonderful creatures a second chance. We were also able to purchase a cage here for an extremely reasonable price. If you are looking for a bird companion, I recommend this rescue over a breeder! Adopt, don’t shop!
they let me play with the birds and i didn’t even buy anything there customer service was amazing, there birds are definitely taken care of i shared what bird i had and we had nice conversations checked up on us a shockingly nice and often! highly recommend.
The owners has shared a sincere concern for my parrot, Bubbles, and provided her the needed attention she deserves. The owners also have been kind enough to keep me updated with the status of her recovery. I’m glad I found the right place to take care of a pet I loved the most.
This place is amazing. I had to take a bird that I got and couldn't take care of anymore. They kept me up to date with how he was doing and let me know when he got his forever home. They really take the time to make sure the birds in their care are matched up with the perfect home and made me feel sure that the little guy was going to be given the best he could be.
When we came in we were greeted by Ben, he was very welcoming and has a lot of knowledge about birds. I’ve always grown up around birds and just wanted to look around but Vito a pineapple conure stood out to me; we went back home and I couldn’t stop thinking of him to the point where I felt sad. The next day I notified him, I was absolutely interested, I haven’t felt so emotional arriving again, we love Vito. Ben and his family are lovely and truly care for these amazing animals
I contacted this parrot rescue knowing full well that my problem was not something that they handle, but they helped me anyway! I had an injured dove in one hand and my little phone in the other, I did not have my reading glasses, so was at a big disadvantage. No wildlife organizations answered their phones, and on a whim, a friend texted me Valleywide Parrot Rescue's phone number. Not only did they answer my call late on a Sunday afternoon, it was also a holiday weekend and Ben took the time to do the legwork for me and figure out which bird rescue was closest to me, if they were open for intake, until what time, and their new location. I'm normally very capable, but sometimes you get caught in an odd position and I am still surprised at how much they stepped up. Bravo, thank you, and keep up the good work! Every living thing has value, and these guys know that. I'll be high on this for a while, it was truly just a random act of kindness!
I found a baby house sparrow hyperventilating outside my garage, no idea what to do so googled and tried to keep it comfortable and alive. I woke up early worried about him and saw he survived the night but didn’t seem to be doing any better, I think his legs were broken or really hurt. I found this rescue for parrots but figured I could give it a try, Dan and his mom suggested I go to another wildlife center but also prepared me for the fact that it unfortunately may not survive 😔 He died a few hours later unfortunately but I appreciate other human beings willing to help me so early in the morning, and looking at their other reviews it looks like they do amazing work with the birdies!
When I took my bay to them they were very understanding of his traumatic life and were sure they could help him I tried but his life was so bad before me I was struggling to make him happy. I am so relieved I did take him to them. He received excellent care and has now been adopted by someone willing to continue with what he needs to be a happy guy. I would recommend this resuce above all others.
Very welcomed feel in love with all of them husband wanted to get one fir himself he picked M r Goat he feel in love with him ❤️ all the birds were amazing ! BEN IS AMAZING!
The whole process was smooth. We felt welcomed the entire time and never felt rushed when spending time with the parrot. If you’re in the market for a bird I could think of no better place.
I was able to provide and absolutely adorable parakeet with a home, and she is hand tame! Ben was very knowledgeable and the price was great. I would definitely recommend Valleywide Parrot Rescue, you can see how much love and care the birds get here🫶
I call Ben the Bird Whisper. Ben is so knowledgeable and is dedicated to the Rescue of Birds. They are well kept and cared for. I would highly recomend Valleywide Parrot Rescue to anyone looking for a bird. They need homes. And if you can donate as well it is a great Organization and it will go to the care of these precious birds. Here is Max couldn't ask for a more sweetheart of a bird.
Ben is amazing has a lot of knowledge about birds!! My dad passed away and could no longer take care of our bird . Our bird has been in my family for 30 years.. it was an emotional for my family. Ben made feel comfortable and reassure that the bird will be safe!! I'm glad Ben gave me up dates. He said the bird made friends and he's so happy!! Now I'm at peace!! Thank you for the update!!
This rescue is absolutely amazing! All of the rescued birds are definitely well cared for and loved. I was fortunate enough to give one of them their new forever home and couldn't be happier!
We are so thrilled with our new addition! Ben was so helpful and informative and you can just feel the passion he has for the birds and rescue in general! We will definitely adopt again from Valleywide Parrot Rescue!
This organization is absolutely amazing! I sadly had to surrender a parrot that I had taken on because I realized she deserved a much better life than I was able to provide. Ben went above and beyond for me and was extremely knowledgeable and caring and because of how wonderful he was I was able to come away knowing I had made the right decision without a single doubt. Within only a short time after, he had already sent me a picture showing me how well she was settling in! There are no words to express how appreciative I am and how wonderful he was at handling the very difficult decision I had to make. I 100% recommend working with Ben and Valleywide Parrot Rescue. 💕
They where wonderful and kind and very informative ,and we love are bird
We wanted to add a cockatiel to our family, and Valleywide Parrot Rescue was very helpful. They picked out one for us who would allow us to hold him and interact with us. They also had available food and other items that have come in handy. We have only had our cockatiel for a day, and we all love him. There were many neat birds there. I highly recommend Valleywide Parrot Rescue!
After recently moving, I realized that my blue crowned conure would probably do better in a different environment. I reached out to Ben about rehoming her. He sounded very knowledgeable and caring on the phone and so I decided it was the best thing to do for her. When I took her to Ben, I could see how gentle and patient he was with her. I feel that he will find her the best home. He updates me on her progress there and I can’t tell you how reassuring that is. I’m very comfortable with my decision to place her with Valley Wide Parrot Rescue. Thank you Ben! Regards, Robin
I’m so grateful that I found valleywide. I needed to rehome my green cheek conure and Ben made it a seamless experience. I did so much research before taking my little baby to anyone as I wanted to make sure I found a rescue that really took care of him and would find him a good and loving home. Ben has even sent me updates which warms my heart as rehoming my conure was one of the hardest things I’ve had to do. Definitely recommend valleywide parrot rescue for anyone who is looking to rehome their baby.
I have been debating on rehoming my unbrella cockatoo after i had some medical issues and I could not give her all she needed.. It took me awhile to finally contact Valleywide Parrot Rescue to get info on rehoming and start the process. I must say, they made me feel very comfortable with my decision, they answered all my questions of concerns on the adoption process of finding a new loving forever home for my loving friend.When Ben came over to pick her up, I was even more comfortable with my choice to rehome my friend with Valleywide Parrot Rescue. I highly reccomend if you are considering rehoming your parrot, take the 1st step to contact them, I am sure you will feel the same as I did, in making the right decission for you and your friend...
The owners are very friendly. They tell you all about the bird you are interested in before you get to hold it. The rescue is very clean. The macaw and I bonded almost immediately. He fed me and let me scratch his head and he tickled my ear. I am going back on the meet to be with him again if he's still there. I hope he is. I would like to save up to get him.
We are so thankful we made the appointment to meet our new birds today. The people handling their Facebook were so so friendly and the man hosting the meet and greet was kind and informative! The adoption fees were way less than expected, leaving us some extra funds for toys and treats!
I had the pleasure of adopting two African Grays, Ross and Baby. They made sure that I understood the full extent of their care and Baby’s special needs. They gave me plenty of time to make sure that we got along. I never felt pressured or rushed. I highly recommend Valleywide Parrot Rescue.
We recently adopted an African Gray parrot from Ben and his family, they are very kind and wonderful people to the birds. Everyone is well cared for and ready for homes if the right family comes along. They are very good at asking questions and helping you make a good well-informed decisions and gave plenty of help and guidance. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a parrot in Arizona. They care greatly about the birds and I can't say enough good things about them.
I had so much fun getting to know all the birds and getting to know a Sun Conure named Sunshine. These birds are all appreciated and well-loved by their caretakers. Adoption was simple and fun. Would recommend to anyone looking to adopt a bird.
We adopted Peanut and Cracker! They are the greatest birds I've had in awhile. The process was easy and service was even better.
This place is a scam. I found an injured peacock, didnt know what to do. Called Valley Wide Parrot Rescue and talked to Ben. He said they had an animal hospital and he would take the bird in for the night since it was Sunday, then bring it to the hospital the next day. He never brought the bird in for care (it had two broken legs). My sister checked in on him and it had been 2-3 weeks and he still never brought the bird in and said he was having trouble with it in his small apartment. I was dealing with my dads end of life and couldn’t focus on helping this poor animal.
Thank you Valley Wide Parrot Boarding Club for taking such good care of Peaches, Sweet Pea, and Nutmeg while "mom and dad" were out of town over Thanksgiving! What love they received! Highly recommend the Valley Wide Parrot Boarding Club for boarding feathered family members. If Peaches, Sweet Pea, and Nutmeg could plainly tell me, they would say it was like summer camp! ❤ ❤
Best rescue I have ever been at. Clean, knowledgeable, and friendly. I found my newest member of my family there and I couldn't be happier. The family is amazingly sweet and truly cares about every life that comes and goes out their door.
Excellent quality of birds very satisfied with isaac so sweet and adorable i highly recommend anyone looking for a pet to come to this place and adopt you won't regret it 😉😉😉
Ben was so professional and went well above and beyond. We had a parrot that needed rehomed due to medical issues and he was more than accommodating. And our bird loved him which was a huge relief to us knowing she is in good hands! Highly recommend.