Rehoming a parrot can be a difficult decision for any pet owner. Whether the need for rehoming stems from lifestyle changes, financial constraints, or just realizing that bird keeping isn’t really your thing, it’s critical to approach the process with as much thought as possible.
Luckily, you have many options when it comes to rehoming your feathered friend. Keep reading to learn more about rehoming your parrot.
1. Many Bird Rescue Organizations Offer Parrots Refuge
One of the best options for rehoming your beloved pet parrot is to contact a bird-centered rescue organization. Many reputable organizations are staffed with experienced bird owners and veterinary professionals who want to see rehomed birds thrive.
What’s more, these organizations don’t take adoption lightly. They’ll often screen new owners to ensure they can offer your rehomed bird the support they need. Some well-known organizations include the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and specific local bird rescues.
When considering possible rescue organizations, make sure you’re conducting business with a bona fide shelter—not an individual who has multiple parrots in their home and claims to run a shelter. There are unscrupulous individuals who take in rehomed parrots and then sell them in the illegal wildlife trade for a profit. Look for a non-profit organization backed with reviews and appropriate licensure.
2. The Breeder Who Sold You the Parrot
If you purchased your parrot from a reputable breeder, they’ll likely take back the bird they sold you—even if it was years ago. You might not get a refund, but ultimately, they want to see the birds they bred thrive. What’s more, they understand that life circumstances can change, and not all situations are best for bird keeping. A responsible breeder may also have a network of potential adopters who are interested in adopting older parrots. Returning your parrot to their original breeder can offer great peace of mind, as you’ll know that your bird is now with someone who intimately understands their needs.
3. Bird Lovers on Social Media and Forums
Social media platforms and online bird keeping forums can be a super effective way to find a new home for your beloved parrot. There are plenty of pages on Facebook, Instagram, and Reddit that have specific groups dedicated to bird adoption. Here, owners can easily post about birds that are looking for new homes.
There are also helpful sites like Craigslist that can be used to reach a more local audience. However, it is SO important to do your due diligence to exercise caution when using these platforms. Make sure you screen potential adopters thoroughly, asking plenty of questions about their experience with birds and their plans for care.
Choosing to rehome a bird can be a stressful decision that’s ultimately in the best interest of the animal. In addition to finding your pet a new home, online communities can also provide plenty of emotional support during this process, connecting you with others who have navigated similar situations.
Reaching out to these people can also help you understand whether the best option is rehoming or changing certain ways you care for your bird. Some people may even be kind enough to talk to you about how they found their parrot a new home, making your situation easier.
4. Friends, Family, and Co-Workers Who Love Birds
Sometimes, one of the best ways that you can find a new home for your parrot is through word of mouth. Take the time to talk to friends, family, and co-workers about your situation and share about your situation. You might even be surprised to find someone in your circle who is interested in adopting your parrot or might know someone who is.
This method can also provide you with a heap of reassurance as you’ll know your bird is going to a familiar environment. And you may even be able to visit! Just make sure you’re 100 percent honest about your parrot’s personality, care requirements, and any quirks they may have. These things are super important for the new owner to know. What’s more, it can help avoid having to rehome the bird again.
When to Consider Rehoming a Pet Parrot
Look, we totally get it. Deciding to rehome a parrot is definitely not easy. However, there are certain circumstances that may make this decision necessary.
If you find that you no longer have enough time to dedicate to your parrot due to things like work commitments, family changes, or other responsibilities, rehoming may be in the best interest of both you and the bird. Parrots thrive on consistent socialization. Without it, they can experience extreme separation anxiety and even develop common health concerns that affect birds, such as feather plucking.
You may also find that keeping a parrot is too expensive. Not only do some birds themselves cost thousands of dollars, but the cost of toys, vet bills, and food could take a financial toll. While pet insurance goes a long way in paying for routine vet bills, in the end, it could be too costly to maintain your feathered friend.
There’s no shame in needing help or admitting that pet bird ownership isn’t for everyone. Rehoming can be difficult, but at the end of the process, you can rest assured that your pet bird has found a safe place to land.
