Big Pet Birds: A Comprehensive Guide to Large Avian Companions
Large pet birds can make magnificent companions, offering intelligence, longevity, and striking beauty. However, they also come with significant responsibilities and challenges. This article explores the world of big pet birds, discussing popular species, care requirements, and important considerations before bringing one of these majestic creatures into your home.
8 Popular Large Birds to Keep as Pets
Large birds can be rewarding companions, but they require dedicated care and attention. Here are some of the most popular big birds kept as pets:
1. Hyacinth Macaw
The Hyacinth Macaw stands as the largest parrot species in the world, with a length of about 40 inches from head to tail. These magnificent blue birds are known for their gentle temperaments despite their imposing size. However, they require experienced caretakers who understand their complex needs, including specialized diets, extensive social interaction, and large enclosures. Their price tag (often $10,000-$15,000) and endangered status also make them a serious commitment.
2. African Grey Parrot
While not the largest in physical size, African Greys are intellectual giants in the bird world. Renowned for their exceptional talking ability and intelligence, these medium-to-large birds require mental stimulation and regular interaction. Their gray bodies with striking red tails make them visually distinctive, and they typically live 40-60 years with proper care.
3. Cockatoos
These charismatic birds with distinctive crests come in several large species, including Moluccan, Umbrella, and Sulphur-crested Cockatoos. They’re extremely affectionate but demand significant attention and can become destructive and loud if their emotional needs aren’t met. Cockatoos are notorious for their powerful vocalizations and can live 60+ years.
4. Amazons
Amazon parrots are stocky, medium-to-large birds known for their playful personalities and talking abilities. Species like the Double Yellow-headed and Blue-fronted Amazons are particularly popular. These birds can be territorial and moody at times but form strong bonds with their caretakers. They typically live 40-50 years.
5. Macaws
Beyond the Hyacinth, other macaw species like the Blue and Gold, Scarlet, and Green-winged Macaws are popular large pet birds. Their vibrant plumage and playful personalities make them appealing, but they require substantial space and can be extremely loud. Most macaws live 50+ years in captivity.
6. Eclectus Parrots
These striking birds display dramatic sexual dimorphism—males are emerald green while females are bright red and purple. Medium-to-large sized, Eclectus parrots have specific dietary needs and generally calmer demeanors than some other large parrots. They typically live 30-50 years.
7. Pigeons and Doves
Often overlooked as pets, pigeons and doves can make excellent companions. They’re less demanding than parrots, quieter, and still offer interactive relationships. Pigeons in particular are decent-sized birds that can be housed indoors with proper accommodations. They’re also more affordable and have shorter lifespans (10-15 years), making them less of a lifetime commitment.
8. Toucans
For the truly adventurous bird keeper with proper permits and experience, smaller toucan species like Aracaris or Toucanets can be kept as pets. Their unique appearance and behaviors make them fascinating companions, but they require specialized diets and housing. These are not recommended for beginners.
Personality Changes in Large Pet Birds
One important consideration with large birds is how their personalities can change over time, particularly during breeding season or if allowed to breed.
Hormonal Changes
According to Lafeber Pet Birds, when pet birds enter breeding mode, their personalities can transform dramatically. A once-friendly bird may become territorial, aggressive, or excessively vocal. These changes are driven by hormones and natural instincts, but they can be challenging for owners to manage, especially with larger birds whose bites and territorial displays can be dangerous.
Managing Behavioral Changes
To minimize problematic hormonal behaviors in large birds:
– Limit exposure to potential nesting areas
– Maintain consistent daily routines
– Avoid petting that could be perceived as mate-like behavior
– Ensure proper nutrition and adequate sleep
– Provide mental stimulation through toys and training
Big Birds vs. Little Birds: Important Considerations
When deciding between large and small pet birds, several factors come into play:
Space Requirements
Large birds need significantly more space than their smaller counterparts. A macaw or cockatoo requires a cage with minimum dimensions of 36″ × 48″ × 60″ (and that’s just for sleeping—they need additional out-of-cage time). Small birds like budgies can be housed in much more modest enclosures.
Noise Levels
As noted in the r/parrots discussion about “quiet large birds” (a somewhat contradictory concept), larger birds generally produce louder vocalizations. While a budgie’s chatter might be manageable in an apartment, a macaw’s screech can reach 105 decibels—comparable to a chainsaw and potentially problematic for neighbors.
Lifespan Commitment
Large parrots are among the longest-lived pets, with many species living 50+ years. This represents a lifetime commitment, potentially outliving their owners and requiring estate planning. Smaller birds typically live 5-15 years.
Household Safety
According to the Avian Avenue Parrot Forum discussion, households with other pets require special consideration. Large birds may be able to coexist with cats or dogs under careful supervision, while smaller birds are at greater risk. Conversely, large birds can injure small pets or even pose risks to small children if not properly trained and supervised.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Before bringing home a large pet bird, honestly assess:
– Do you have the space for a large cage and play area?
– Can your living situation accommodate potential noise?
– Are you prepared for a decades-long commitment?
– Do you have the financial resources for proper care, including specialized veterinary treatment?
– Do you have the time for daily interaction and enrichment?
For many bird enthusiasts, the special bond formed with a large, intelligent bird makes these challenges worthwhile. However, it’s always better to thoroughly research and understand the commitment before bringing home any pet bird, especially a large one.
Remember that adoption is an excellent option, as many large birds need rehoming due to owners underestimating their needs. Rescue organizations can also help match you with a bird whose personality fits your lifestyle.
With proper research, preparation, and commitment, sharing your life with a large pet bird can be an extraordinarily rewarding experience that spans decades of companionship.