Where to Buy a Parrot: Complete Guide (2026)

Author: Elliott Garber, DVM

Thinking about adding a parrot to your family?

You’re about to embark on one of the most rewarding (and yes, challenging) pet ownership journeys out there.

But here’s the thing: buying a parrot isn’t like picking up a goldfish at the pet store. These intelligent, long-lived birds require careful consideration, and where you get your feathered friend matters just as much as which species you choose.

The question “where can I buy a parrot?” has more answers today than ever before.

From traditional breeders and pet stores to rescue organizations and modern online marketplaces like Creatures, you have options. But with options come decisions, and with decisions come potential pitfalls.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about acquiring a parrot in 2025.

We’ll explore each buying option, help you understand the true commitment involved, teach you how to spot reputable sellers (and avoid the bad ones), and give you the tools to make an informed, responsible decision.

By the end, you’ll know exactly where to look, what to ask, and how to bring home a healthy, happy parrot.

Let’s get started.

Parrot Ownership Requirements: What to Know Before You Buy

Before we dive into where to buy a parrot, let’s address the elephant (or rather, the macaw) in the room: parrots are not easy pets.

Parrot Lifespan: 20-80+ Years of Commitment

Parrots live a long time.

We’re not talking goldfish years here.

Depending on the species, parrots can live anywhere from 20 to 50 years, with some large macaws and cockatoos reaching 80 years or more in captivity.

That’s right (your parrot might actually outlive you).

This isn’t a pet; this is a multi-decade commitment that could span your entire adult life.

Parrot Intelligence and Daily Care Requirements

Parrots are wickedly smart.

We’re talking toddler-level intelligence here (specifically, the cognitive ability of a 2 to 5-year-old child).

What does that mean practically?

It means they need constant mental stimulation, daily interaction, and enrichment activities. A bored parrot is a destructive, screaming, feather-plucking parrot.

They need puzzle toys, foraging opportunities, training sessions, and genuine social interaction every single day.

Parrot Noise Levels and Mess: What to Expect

Let’s be honest: parrots are loud.

Small parrots are capable of piercing calls for alarm and attention, though their typical communication includes softer chirps and warbles. If you have close neighbors, this might become a problem.

And no, not all parrots talk (many will never mimic human speech, but they’ll still scream and squawk plenty).

They’re also messy.

Daily cage cleaning, scattered food everywhere, feathers, and yes, bird droppings are all part of the package.

Many larger parrots will bite when frightened or agitated.

Learning to read bird body language isn’t optional (it’s a survival skill).

Determining If You’re Ready for a Parrot

If you’re prepared (truly prepared) for the time, budget, patience, and lifestyle adjustments that come with parrot ownership, then you’re ready to start looking.

If any of this gives you pause, take more time to research and consider whether a parrot is the right pet for you.

Now, assuming you’re all in, let’s talk about where to find your feathered friend.

5 Best Places to Buy a Parrot (Breeders, Rescues, Online)

There are several routes you can take when acquiring a parrot, each with its own pros, cons, and things to watch out for.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Let’s break down each option in detail.

Buying from Parrot Breeders: The Gold Standard

For many people looking for a specific species or a hand-raised baby parrot, going through a reputable breeder is the best option.

Breeders who know what they’re doing can provide well-socialized, healthy baby parrots that have been properly weaned and are accustomed to human handling.

Here’s why breeders are often considered the gold standard: you’re more likely to get a healthy, well-adjusted parrot if you go through an experienced breeder rather than a chain pet store.

But not all breeders are created equal, so you need to do your homework.

Finding Ethical Parrot Breeders

Look for breeders with a solid reputation in the bird community.

National or regional aviculture societies and online breeder directories are all good starting points.

You can also find verified breeders on Creatures who have been pre-screened for quality and ethical practices.

Red flags to avoid:

• Breeders who won’t let you see their facility (either virtually or in person)
• Anyone unwilling to answer your questions or who doesn’t ask you questions
• Meet-ups in random parking lots or “out of the trunk of a car”

The best breeders will actually quiz you about your experience and setup.

They care deeply about where their birds are going.

Visiting Parrot Breeders: Red Flags and Green Flags

Whether you visit in person or via video call, observe the conditions:

• Clean, spacious enclosures with fresh food and water
• Alert, active birds that look healthy
• No overcrowding or signs of neglect

If you see filthy cages, crowded conditions, or listless birds, walk away.

Never Buy Unweaned Baby Parrots

Here’s something critical: never buy an unweaned baby unless you’re an experienced hand-feeder.

Some irresponsible sellers will try to push unweaned chicks onto novices with false promises like “it will bond better if you hand-feed it yourself”.

This is extremely dangerous for the baby bird’s health.

While health certificates may not be legally required for domestic bird buying, insist that any young parrot is fully weaned (eating on its own) before taking it home.

Parrot Health Guarantees: What Breeders Should Provide

Reputable breeders will:

• Provide documentation (hatch date, parentage, care records)
• Be honest about the bird’s age, sex (if known), and any health issues
• Offer a health guarantee for a reasonable period
• Give you references from past customers

If a breeder tries to substitute a different bird last minute, gives vague answers, or makes excuses for sick birds, trust your gut and walk away.

Buying Parrots from Pet Stores: Pros and Cons

Pet stores are convenient, but they come with limitations and often higher prices.

Petco and PetSmart Parrot Selection and Prices

Stores like Petco and PetSmart typically only carry smaller parrot species (budgies (parakeets), cockatiels, maybe lovebirds or green-cheek conures).

You won’t find African Greys or macaws in these stores.

The convenience factor is real (you can walk in and see the birds immediately).

But you’ll often pay a premium.

For example, Petco recently sold green-cheeked and sun conures for $800–$1,300. Private breeders typically charge $300-$600 for conures, which is significantly less than Petco’s price range, though prices vary by breeder reputation and bird quality.

Even a quaker parrot (monk parakeet) can run around $600–$700 at Petco, and a simple budgie might be $20–$50.

Specialty Bird Stores vs Chain Pet Stores

Independent pet shops that specialize in birds can be excellent or they can be sketchy.

Some hand-raise baby parrots on-site and offer fantastic after-sale support. Others are essentially brokers selling birds acquired cheaply.

Questions to ask:

• Where do their birds come from?
• Are they hand-raised or parent-raised?
• How old are they? Are they weaned?
• What’s the health policy or return guarantee?

Check the conditions: clean cages, alert birds, no overcrowding.

If you see obvious signs of neglect (dirty cages, foul smells, puffed-up lethargic birds), leave immediately.

Adopting Parrots from Rescues and Shelters

The “adopt, don’t shop” movement is strong in the parrot community for good reason.

Parrot rescues and shelters are full of birds desperately needing homes (from tiny parrotlets to massive macaws).

Benefits of Adopting a Rescue Parrot

Lower cost: Adoption fees typically range from $30 to $650 depending on species, with smaller birds (parakeets, cockatiels) at $30-75, medium birds (conures) at $250, and larger birds (Amazons, cockatoos, African Greys, macaws) at $400-650.

Ongoing support: Reputable rescues offer guidance on care and behavior, and they’ll be a resource for questions long after you take the bird home.

This is something you typically won’t get from a pet store or breeder.

Known personalities: Many rescue parrots are adults, so their temperament is established.

The rescue staff can tell you exactly what you’re getting (“This bird loves women but is afraid of men” or “This one whistles constantly and needs tons of toys”).

Health: Rescue birds are usually vet-checked, quarantined, and treated for any illnesses before adoption.

Rescue Parrot Challenges: Behavioral Issues and Requirements

Not every rescue parrot is easy.

Many were surrendered due to behavioral issues or owner life changes. You might encounter birds that scream excessively, have trust issues, or will never enjoy cuddling.

Expect an application process with requirements like references and sometimes home visits.

This is good (it means the rescue cares about finding forever homes).

Finding Parrot Rescue Organizations Near You

Start with the Avian Welfare Coalition or Petfinder.com.

Organizations like Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue (California), Phoenix Landing (East Coast), and Florida-based rescues such as Florida Parrot Rescue, Parrot Outreach Society (Punta Gorda), or Ruffled Feathers Parrot Rescue specialize in parrots.

Sometimes individuals need to rehome their pet parrots too.

You might find opportunities in bird forums or groups, though you’ll want to use the same caution as with any private sale.

Buying Parrots Online: Modern Marketplaces and Safety

In 2025, the internet has fundamentally changed how people acquire parrots.

But this convenience comes with both opportunities and risks.

Craigslist and Facebook Parrot Scams: How to Avoid Them

Sites like Craigslist, Gumtree, or Facebook groups can connect you with birds, but they carry high scam risk and zero protection.

Common red flags include:

• Sellers demanding wire transfers
• “Too good to be true” prices
• Refusing to show the bird via live video before payment
• Only communicating via email with no phone contact

Never send money to someone you’ve only chatted with online without verifying they’re legitimate.

Safe Online Parrot Marketplaces (Creatures and Others)

This is where platforms like Creatures come in.

Modern online marketplaces offer an “e-commerce meets social media” approach with built-in safeguards.

On Creatures, for example, sellers are pre-verified, there are public ratings and reviews, and buyer protection measures like escrow payment ensure you actually get the animal you paid for.

What to look for in an online marketplace:

• Verified seller badges or credentials
• Secure payment systems (ideally escrow until you confirm receipt)
• Clear policies on live animal shipping and DOA (Dead on Arrival) guarantees
• A platform that explicitly guarantees live arrival or your money back

Online Parrot Buying Safety Tips

Research the seller thoroughly:

Even on a marketplace, check reviews, how long they’ve been active, and cross-reference their real-world identity (many breeders have websites or social media you can verify).

If the platform verifies sellers, prioritize those accounts.

Demand live proof:

Ask the seller to video call you with the bird or send recent video clips.

You need to see that the bird is real, active, and looks healthy (clear eyes, clean feathers, alert posture). Scammers often steal photos from the internet (a live video weeds them out).

Use the platform’s payment system:

Never let a seller talk you into paying off-platform to dodge fees.

That voids your buyer protection and is usually against marketplace rules. The small fee is worth having recourse if something goes wrong.

Understand shipping logistics:

Many online transactions involve shipping the parrot via airline cargo or specialized animal couriers.

Ensure the seller has experience shipping live birds (this isn’t something to leave to amateurs). Proper travel carriers, avoiding extreme weather, and timing coordination are all critical.

Expect to pay around $100 or more for domestic airline shipping, plus the cost of an approved carrier.

If possible, ground transport or in-person pickup is gentler on the bird.

Plan for quarantine and vet checks:

When you receive a bird you bought online, quarantine it away from any other birds for at least 30 days, and have it examined by an avian veterinarian.

Reputable sellers should have no issue with you taking the bird for a vet check and contacting them if serious health issues are found.

Bird Fairs and Parrot Expos: What to Know

Bird fairs and expos are events where multiple breeders gather to sell birds, cages, and supplies.

They can be fun and offer lower prices, but they require careful navigation.

Benefits of Buying Parrots at Bird Fairs

You can see many species in one place, meet multiple breeders, compare birds side by side, and sometimes take one home the same day.

Prices are often lower than pet stores, and haggling is expected.

Bird Fair Risks: Disease, Stress, and Unethical Sellers

The environment can be stressful for birds, with increased disease transmission risk when so many birds from different sources are in one room.

Some unscrupulous sellers use fairs to offload birds that wouldn’t sell otherwise.

There have been cases of vendors selling obviously ill birds (fluffed up, sitting on cage bottoms) or pushing unweaned babies onto naive buyers.

How to Safely Buy a Parrot at a Bird Fair

Do your research beforehand.

Know the species you want and the questions to ask. Press sellers on details: How old is this bird? Is it weaned? What’s your health guarantee? Can I contact you later?

Responsible breeders at fairs will offer guarantees and won’t pressure you into quick sales.

The good ones will ask you as many questions as you ask them.

Avoid sellers who are impatient, won’t answer questions thoroughly, or push unweaned babies.

Stick to fully weaned birds that look bright, active, and healthy.

It’s perfectly fine to attend a fair, browse, collect breeder cards, buy supplies, and then follow up with breeders you liked in a less hectic setting.

Parrot Prices by Species (2025 Complete Cost Guide)

Whether you adopt or buy, it’s crucial to budget for more than just what you pay to get the bird.

Parrots range from very affordable to extremely expensive, and the ongoing costs are substantial.

2025 Parrot Prices by Species

Here’s what you can expect to pay in the current market:

Adoption Savings:

Adopting from a rescue typically costs far less (often just a few hundred dollars including the cage).

This is by far the most budget-friendly option, though the ongoing care costs remain the same.

Parrot Cage, Food, and Vet Costs

Beyond the bird itself, here’s what you’ll need to budget:

Lifetime Cost of Owning a Parrot

Over a parrot’s potentially decades-long life, costs can reach tens of thousands of dollars.

Factor this long-term financial responsibility into your decision.

(Price data current as of late 2024/early 2025. Prices vary by region and change over time, so always check current sources.)

How to Find Reputable Parrot Breeders and Avoid Scams

No matter where you’re looking, certain signs indicate whether a seller is trustworthy or someone to avoid.

Signs of a Reputable Parrot Breeder

Knowledge and transparency:

Good sellers happily answer detailed questions about species care, the bird’s history, hatch date, sex, personality, and any quirks or health issues.

They know their stuff and are upfront about everything.

Clean, safe conditions:

Whether it’s a home aviary, pet store, or rescue, the environment should be clean, well-maintained, and not overcrowded.

Birds should have clean water and food, and look bright-eyed and active.

No pressure tactics:

Reputable sellers know parrot acquisition is more like adoption than a quick transaction.

They won’t rush you into a decision. Many ethical breeders and rescues encourage you to think it over or require multiple interactions before finalizing.

Health guarantees:

Good sellers provide health guarantees for a short period (48 hours to a week), giving you time for a vet check.

Many will show you recent test results for common diseases. They should guarantee that if your vet finds a serious illness right after you buy the bird, you can return it or have them cover treatment.

Legal compliance:

Reputable sellers know and follow all applicable laws for the species.

For example, they’ll warn you if a species is illegal in your state (like how Quaker Parrots are banned in at least 10 states including California, Georgia, and Tennessee).

Passion and ethics:

You can often tell when someone genuinely cares versus just making money.

Ethical sellers ask lots of questions and might even refuse a sale if they feel you’re not a good fit. They won’t sell birds that are too young or unhealthy.

Many stay in touch and offer ongoing advice.

Verifiable reputation:

If dealing with a breeder or rescue, look them up online.

Do they have a Facebook page with reviews? Are they known in the bird community?

If you find nothing about them, proceed cautiously.

Red Flags When Buying a Parrot

Trust your instincts.

If something feels off, walk away. There are many parrots and many sellers out there (you don’t need to settle for one that doesn’t feel right).

Watch out for:

• Sellers who seem ignorant about the species or give conflicting answers
• Dirty, crowded, or poorly maintained facilities
• Dull, listless, or constantly fluffed-up birds
• High-pressure sales tactics (“This bird is only available today!”)
• Unwillingness to provide health guarantees or vet records
• Attempts to sell unweaned babies to inexperienced buyers
• Lack of knowledge about or disregard for legal restrictions
• Requests for off-platform payments or wire transfers
• Won’t let you see the bird via video or in person before payment

Legal Requirements for Buying a Parrot (State Laws, CITES, Permits)

Buying a parrot involves navigating various laws and regulations designed to protect both the animals and the environment.

Captive-Bred vs Wild-Caught Parrots: Legal Requirements

Many developed countries and major markets have strict bans on wild-capture and import of parrots, with international trade regulated by CITES. However, enforcement varies significantly and illegal trade continues in many regions.

In the United States, the Wild Bird Conservation Act (WBCA) and CITES (international treaty) make it illegal to import wild parrots of most species.

Essentially, any parrot you buy in the U.S. should be captive-bred domestically.

Always ask about the bird’s origin (any hint that a bird was wild-caught is both unethical and likely illegal).

CITES Regulations for Buying Endangered Parrots

Some parrots are endangered and protected by international law.

CITES Appendix I species (including African Grey Parrots, which were uplisted in 2016, and five cockatoo species: Tanimbar corella, red-vented cockatoo, Moluccan cockatoo, yellow-crested cockatoo, and palm cockatoo) are generally prohibited from international commercial trade. While special permits may be granted for non-commercial purposes (scientific research, breeding programs), commercial trade is effectively banned under Appendix I protections.

As a buyer, this mostly affects international bird buying.

It’s generally easiest and safest to buy within your country.

Never agree to smuggle a bird or have one falsely labeled (the legal penalties are severe, and it’s often deadly for the bird).

State Laws for Owning Parrots

Check your state, province, or city regulations:

• Some states require permits for certain parrots (New Jersey and Virginia allow Quaker Parrots but require permits and specific housing)
• Hawaii has strict rules about importing birds
• California bans many exotic species (though for parrots specifically, only Quaker parrots are banned; most other parrot species are legal)
• Some cities or homeowner associations restrict “loud animals”

Do a quick search for “[your state] exotic pet laws” or check with your state’s wildlife agency.

You can also review animal welfare regulations for comprehensive guidance.

Parrot Health Certificates for Interstate Transport

If buying from out of state or out of country, you may need a health certificate (CVI).

Airlines often require this within 10 days of flight.

Good sellers will handle this, but confirm it’s covered.

Ethical Parrot Breeding Practices

Beyond laws, consider ethics.

Unfortunately, “parrot mills” exist (breeders who churn out chicks with minimal concern for welfare). Signs include overcrowded cages, routine sales of unweaned babies, or irresponsible hybrid breeding just for designer colors.

As a buyer, choose sources that prioritize bird welfare.

Your money shouldn’t encourage cruelty. Learn more about what makes ethical breeding practices important.

Parrot Buying Contracts and Documentation

Don’t be surprised if a breeder or rescue has you sign a contract.

Common clauses include agreeing not to breed the bird or promising to return it to them if you can’t keep it.

These protect the bird’s welfare and are normal in the parrot world.

Bottom line: Do your legal homework before buying.

Modern marketplaces like Creatures remind users that buyers and sellers are responsible for complying with all applicable wildlife laws.

The onus is ultimately on you to ensure everything is above board.

Bringing Your Parrot Home: Transport, Setup, and First-Week Care

You’ve decided on a species, found a source, and you’re ready to get your parrot.

Keep these final tips in mind:

Before Buying Your Parrot: Essential Preparations

Meet before money (if possible):

Always try to meet the bird in person or via video call before committing.

Personality matters (you might fall in love with a species you didn’t expect or realize your first choice isn’t right for you).

Prepare your home first:

Set up the cage, stock up on food (ask what the bird currently eats), and parrot-proof your home.

Remove hazards like:

• Non-stick cookware (toxic fumes)
• Ceiling fans
• Toxic houseplants

Transporting Your New Parrot Safely

Bring a proper carrier if picking up in person.

Don’t transport a parrot in a cardboard box or on a perch in your car.

Use a secure travel cage or pet carrier, keep it out of direct sun and drafts.

Helping Your New Parrot Adjust to Home

Give your new parrot time to acclimate.

It’s normal if the bird is quiet or nervous for the first few days. Don’t overwhelm it immediately.

Place the cage in a calm spot and let the bird observe for a day or two.

Talk softly, use treats, and build trust gradually.

Even hand-tame parrots might regress in a new environment.

Patience is key.

First Vet Visit for Your New Parrot

Schedule a wellness check with an avian vet within the first week or two.

Even if the bird seems healthy, a baseline exam and labs for common diseases are wise.

This also establishes care for future issues.

Joining Parrot Owner Communities

Join parrot owner communities (local bird clubs or online forums).

Other parrot owners are an invaluable support network, especially for first-timers.

You’ll learn tips for training, diet, and enrichment that make life with your parrot even more rewarding.

Long-Term Parrot Care Planning

Since parrots can live for decades, think about the future:

If something happens to you, who will care for the bird?

Some owners set up provisions in their will or identify a family member as the bird’s next guardian.

Finally, enjoy the journey.

Searching for the right parrot takes time and effort, but that’s part of the process.

The day you bring home your new feathered friend, you’re gaining a family member who will share your life for years (even decades) to come.

Find the Best Place to Buy Your Parrot

When someone asks “where can I buy a parrot?”, the real answer is wherever the situation is best for both the bird and you.

For some, that’s an ethical breeder who raises the exact species they’ve dreamed of (whether it’s a Congo African Grey, a Timneh African Grey (now recognized as a separate species, Psittacus timneh, rather than a subspecies), or a colorful Eclectus Parrot).

For others, it’s adopting a rescue parrot who desperately needs a loving home.

It might be through a trusted online marketplace like Creatures that connects you to verified breeders across the country, or at a local bird expo after months of learning.

The key is to prioritize the parrot’s welfare and your preparedness over convenience or impulse.

By understanding the commitment involved, exploring all sourcing options, and using this guide to vet sellers and avoid scams, you’re well on your way to finding your perfect avian companion.

Parrots are truly special animals (quirky, intelligent, sometimes challenging, but incredibly rewarding to those who give them proper care and love).

In 2025, we have more resources than ever.

From specialized platforms that offer secure, compliant ways to buy animals online with verified sellers and buyer protection, to a wealth of information and supportive communities for parrot care.

Use these tools. Do your homework, ask lots of questions, and don’t rush the process.

Your future feathered friend is out there.

When you finally bring them home, you’ll know that all the effort led to a happy, healthy start for a lifelong friendship.

By following this guide and staying conscientious, you can confidently navigate the process of buying a parrot and enjoy all the joys (and quirks!) of life with a beautiful companion. Good luck, and welcome to the world of parrot parenting!

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