What to Ask a Parrot Breeder Before Buying

  Your ultimate guide to asking the right questions — so you bring home a healthy, happy companion bird

Owning a parrot can be one of the most rewarding experiences of a lifetime. These intelligent, social creatures often form deep bonds with their owners, providing love, laughter and companionship for decades. But not all parrots, and certainly not all breeders, are the same — which is why asking the right questions before you buy is so important.

Whether you’re considering a playful conure, a chatty African Grey or a majestic macaw, this guide will walk you through everything you must ask a breeder so you’re confident, prepared and ready for lifelong parrot ownership.

If you’re ready to explore species, our parrot listings at Pure Feather Aviary are a wonderful place to start exploring:



Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

Parrots are not impulse purchases. They can live anywhere from 20 to 80+ years depending on species, and require ongoing mental stimulation, veterinary care, proper nutrition and a suitable environment. A reputable breeder isn’t just selling a bird — they are helping to ensure a successful long-term partnership between you and your new companion.

Before diving into questions, it’s worth noting that responsible and ethical breeders prioritise bird welfare — from transparent information and clean, spacious housing to health checks and socialisation practices. These are exactly the things you should be focusing on when evaluating a breeder. Parrots Canada

1. Breeder Background & Experience

● How long have you been breeding for?

Experience matters. A breeder with years of focused work with one species will likely have deeper insight into behaviour, health and temperament. companioncare.co.uk

● What species do you specialise in?

A breeder who focuses on, for example, African Greys is more likely to understand the nuances of that species compared with someone who breeds many types of birds without depth.

● Can you provide references from previous buyers?

Reputation speaks volumes. Ethical breeders often have testimonials or can put you in contact with past owners.

2. Health & Veterinary Care

● Has the bird had a veterinary check-up recently?

A reputable breeder will be happy to share health records and any avian vet history. Some even recommend health checks within a short period after sale. Avian Avenue Parrot Forum

● What vaccinations and tests have been performed?

Ask specifically about vaccinations against common diseases (e.g., polyomavirus) and whether tests for PBFD or psittacosis have been done. The Parrot Club

● Do parents have health records or pedigrees available?

Knowing the health and background of the parents can give you insight into potential genetic traits and long-term health prospects.

● Do you provide a health guarantee or warranty?

A written health guarantee adds peace of mind, especially if something unforeseen arises soon after you bring your bird home. dummies.com

3. Socialisation, Rearing & Environment

Parrots that are properly socialised and raised in stimulating environments tend to adapt better to home life.

● How was the bird reared — parent-raised or hand-fed?

Both methods can be valid, but it’s essential to know which was used and why. Hand-fed birds often adapt to human interaction earlier, while parent-raised birds may develop better natural behaviours. Avian Avenue Parrot Forum

● What does the bird’s current daily routine look like?

Understanding how much attention, playtime and enrichment the bird receives helps you gauge how easy the transition will be.

● What type of housing are the birds kept in?

Breeders should provide clean, spacious enclosures with fresh water, perches and toys. Dirty or cramped conditions are a significant red flag. parrotessentials.co.uk

● Can I see where the birds live? (In person or virtually)

You’re entitled to view the aviary. Ethical breeders will welcome this; dodging it can be a warning sign.

4. Nutrition & Diet

● What diet are the birds currently fed?

A balanced, species-appropriate diet is critical. Ask for specifics — type of pellets, fresh fruits/vegetables and any supplements.

● How long has this diet been used?

Knowing consistency in feeding history helps avoid transition issues later.

● Does the breeder wean the chicks onto adult food gradually?

Proper weaning is vital for health and digestion.

5. Species-Specific Questions

Different parrot species have different needs and characteristics — so customise your questions based on the bird you’re considering.

● For larger parrots (e.g., macaws, cockatoos):

  • What is the bird’s noise level and activity needs?

  • Do you recommend any specific behavioural training before home introduction?

● For medium parrots (e.g., conures):

  • What are typical personality traits?

  • Are there known temperament differences between males and females?

● For highly intelligent parrots (e.g., African Greys):

  • What enrichment activities are provided?

  • How do you support mental stimulation for these birds?

  • At what age do you recommend bringing a bird home?

You can find excellent breed-specific information and featured parrots — from playful conures to wise African Greys — right here: https://purefeatheraviary.co.uk/

6. Long-Term Planning & Aftercare

● What support do you offer after purchase?

Top breeders will coach you through settling-in phases, feeding changes and early training.

● Do you offer a rehoming policy if things don’t work out?

A responsible breeder should care about the bird’s future even beyond the sale. Parrots Canada

● Can you recommend an avian vet?

A solid breeder relationship with a vet helps ensure continuity of care once your parrot comes home.

7. Genetics, Breeding Practices & Ethical Standards

● Do you prioritize health and temperament over rare colours or mutations?

Breeders focused solely on rare mutations may overlook important health issues. Ethical breeders prioritise genetic health. Parrots Canada

● How many clutches does each pair have per year?

Overbreeding can weaken parent health and offspring quality.

● Are birds ringed or microchipped?

Identification gives you legal ownership evidence and help in case of loss.

8. Practical Logistics

● What is the bird’s hatch date?

Always ask for an exact or approximate hatch date — especially if the bird is young. dummies.com

● What paperwork comes with the bird?

Expect documentation including health records, species identification and hatch details.

● What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Know payment, deposit and collection policies ahead of time.

Key Takeaways — What Makes a Reputable Breeder?

A responsible parrot breeder:

✔ Is transparent and welcoming of questions
✔ Shows clean, well-maintained environments
✔ Has solid health records and vet involvement
✔ Prioritises bird welfare and buyer education
✔ Offers aftercare support and a rehoming policy
✔ Does not hesitate to display credible references

These qualities are not just nice to have — they are essential in ensuring your bird begins life in the best possible way and transitions into its new home smoothly.

Before You Close the Deal: Always Do This

  1. Visit the birds in person (if possible).

  2. Speak with past customers or read independent reviews.

  3. Have an avian vet lined up for a pre-purchase check.

  4. Prepare your home with proper cages, toys and diets in advance.

  5. Never rush — take time to compare breeders and answers. parrotessentials.co.uk

Final Thoughts

Buying a parrot isn’t like picking up a pet from a shop. It’s a lifelong commitment — one that deserves thoughtful consideration and thorough vetting of any breeder you’re considering.

As you prepare to ask these questions, take comfort in knowing this process protects both you and the bird. With the right breeder, the answers you gather will help you bring home a parrot that’s healthy, confident and ready to enrich your life.

If you’re ready to find your perfect parrot companion, explore our trusted selection of hand-raised parrots at Pure Feather Aviary: https://purefeatheraviary.co.uk/

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