Parrots and other birds can live up to 10 to 50 years or more, depending on the species and the conditions they live in. Parrots comprise a group of birds that includes over 300 different species. They vary in size from small birds that can fit in the palm of your hand to large birds the size of a cat, and their lifespans are just as variable.

Learn about the average lifespan of various parrots and how you can help them stay healthy and happy.

Average Lifespan of Parrots

Parrots are special among pet birds because many species have the potential to be with you for your entire life. They also often outlive their humans.

Parrots usually live longer in captivity than in the wild because they are less likely to encounter predators and disease while living in a home. That, however, doesn't mean they are exempt from illness and shortened lifespans.

Listed below are some estimated lifespans for common parrots and other pet birds.

As a general rule, the larger the bird, the longer the expected lifespan is. For example, finches live 5 to 9 years on average, and parakeets live 5 to 18 years, while eclectus parrots and macaws live 30 to 50 years or longer. Some parrots that have a long lifespan might even live to be close to 100 years old, though this is uncommon.

What Lifestyle Factors Help Parrots Live Longer?

The most common factors that affect a parrot's life are nutrition, veterinary care, and mental health.

Suitable Housing

Your parrot will thrive if you provide them with a secure and clean enclosure with plenty of space to climb and spread their wings. They should also get lots of natural sunlight or full-spectrum lighting (rather than artificial light alone), as it will allow them to better process nutrients and establish an appropriate day/night cycle for their mental well-being.

Parrots should get 10 to 12 hours of sleep each night, so put them in a dark room where they’ll feel safe and be able to relax at the end of the day. You can also cover their cage if that helps give them the dark environment that they need to fall asleep.

Bird Companions

Some birds should be housed with other birds since they are a flock species. Humans cannot take the place of another bird, no matter how hard we try.

Buying From a Reputable Breeder

If you are purchasing a pet bird, make sure to choose one from a trustworthy breeder. They should be able to provide you with health information on the bird's parents since genetics are also a factor in longevity. And they should be able to prove their birds were bred in captivity, not taken from the wild.  

Also, for birds who live longer, make a plan for where they’ll go in the event they outlive you. This includes making plans with someone you trust who will take your pet and continue caring for them.

Proper Nutrition

Giving your parrot an appropriate diet will help keep them healthy and prevent disease. A well-rounded diet includes pellets, grains, seeds, nuts, and fresh fruits and vegetables. A balance of vitamins, protein, fats, and minerals (such as calcium from sources like boiled eggshells) is critical in maintaining a bird's health and longevity.

Giving a bird a diet that consists mainly of seeds and nuts (which birds love) is one of the worst things you can do. These contain high levels of fat and very few nutrients.

Schedule Regular Vet Checkups

Pet birds can develop a variety of ailments, including infections, poisoning, and injuries. Also, stress and improper care can lead to behavioral problems like feather plucking. 

If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet.

In addition to seeing your vet when you know something is wrong, have your bird examined regularly so you can catch problems even if there aren’t any obvious symptoms.

Provide Mental Stimulation

Parrots are intelligent animals who require daily activities and interaction. Spend time with your pet every day, making sure they are able to exercise and play. Again, getting your bird a fellow feathered companion can be helpful.

There are many products designed to keep parrots happy and occupied, such as toys and chews. You can also enhance your bird’s environment with various perches and branches so they can stay interested and avoid boredom.

Be Aware of Hazards

There are a host of hazards throughout your home that could harm or poison your parrot, so be sure to keep your bird in a room where they won’t be exposed to toxins, harmful foods, or anything that could cause injuries.

While your bird is out of their cage, make sure the windows are closed to prevent them from getting out. Also be careful about open doors. And ensure that they don’t interact with other pets if there’s a chance that they might hurt each other.

Famous Old Parrots

While many individual parrots have lived a considerably long time, a couple became very well-known for their extended years.

• Alex is probably the most famous parrot. He is known for his work on the avian language experiment (which is what his name stands for). He was purchased from a pet store by Dr. Pepperburg and lived to be 31 years old. A book was written about him and the research he took part in. It was thought that he had the emotional level of a 2-year-old when he died.
• Cookie the cockatoo was a Guinness World Record holder as the longest living parrot for a time. He died in 2016 at the age of 83, and lived almost his entire life at the Brookfield Zoo after having been shipped from an Australian zoo at about 1 year of age.