Parrots for sale in the Netherlands

Parrots: behaviour and suitability

Wild parrots spend much time flying, socialising and searching for food. A human cannot replace a conspecific, and tricks or “tameness” are not measures of welfare. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Only after species research choose very spacious strong housing, daily foraging and destruction tasks and a varied appropriate diet. Plan noise, damage, holiday care and lifelong responsibility beforehand. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Check identification and CITES documents, independent feeding, weight, feathers and breathing. An avian veterinarian must be available. Avoid impulse purchases, unweaned juveniles and birds of unclear origin. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.