If you’ve decided that you want to bring your first parrot home, but you’re worried about the costs, you’re not the only one. The price of most parrots can be high, but many people don’t consider the expense of taking care of a parrot for the rest of its life.
We’re going to have a look at 10 species of parrot that are more affordable than others. Generally speaking, they are all smaller birds (compared to Macaws, for example), which means smaller costs. These selections are also for a single parrot. If you want a pair, you can, of course, expect your costs to double.
Just a Few Words Before We Begin
The upfront cost of your bird, the cage, toys, and food will be very high, but the upkeep after the fact doesn’t have to break the bank.
Also, make sure you buy your bird from a reputable breeder or pet store. There’s a big problem with parrots being illegally trapped and sold, which is also causing a decline in these birds in the wild. Plus, you’re more assured of purchasing a healthy and well-adjusted parrot.
Just be sure to research the parrot you’re most interested in, and remember that your expenses will include the (hopeful) one-time cost of an enclosure as well as food, toys, and vet care. In addition to loads of love and attention from you.
The Top 10 Most Affordable Parrots to Keep as Pets
1. Budgerigar/Parakeet
The Budgie (also known as the Parakeet in the United States and the Budgerigar everywhere else) is a very small bird that is also the most popular pet bird around the world! A healthy budgie costs an average of $200 to $300 per year to care for.
They are sweet, friendly, and affectionate birds that can live for 5 to 18 years and are about 6 to 8 inches long. They also make great pets for first-time bird owners.
They require less food and a smaller enclosure than their bigger relatives, so the Budgie makes an excellent option for the budget-conscious bird owner.
2. Caique
The Caique has grown in popularity recently thanks to its striking appearance and unique personality. They average about 9 to 10 inches in size and can live 30 to 40 years.
They are funny and outgoing but can be stubborn and aggressive with other birds. You can expect to pay an average of $300 to $400 annually.
3. Cockatiel
Cockatiels are just behind the Budgies as some of the most popular pet birds out there. They are larger than a Budgie but still small for a parrot.
They are about 12 to 13 inches long and have a lifespan of about 15 to 30 years. You can expect an average annual cost of about $200 to $350. Cockatiels are also affectionate, playful, and gentle birds that love to hang out with their owners.
4. Cockatoo
Cockatoos are larger than the other birds on our list, but they certainly aren’t the largest parrots. Many species of Cockatoos range widely in price, but the average size is about 15 to 20 inches long, and they have a 40 to 70-year lifespan!
Cockatoos are very intelligent, but they need a lot of attention, or they exhibit destructive behavior. The annual upkeep might range from about $400 to $700.
5. Conure
The Conure is another small parrot, and the Green-Cheeked Conure is one of the more popular species. They are about 10 to 20 inches long and have a lifespan of 15 to 20 or more years.
Conures are not low-maintenance pets. They can be affectionate but are also known to be moody and can nip if they aren’t in the mood to be handled. The average yearly cost is $200 to $300.
6. Lovebird
Lovebirds are popular parrots that are smart and playful and, against popular belief, can live without another Lovebird, provided you give it enough attention.
These birds are about 5 to 7 inches long and live for 10 to 20 years, and cost $200 to $300 every year.
7. Parrotlet
These pocket parrots are among the smallest at about 4.5 inches to 5.5 inches and live 20 to 30 years. They are feisty little birds that are very active and need a lot of attention and handling.
The most popular species is the Pacific Parrotlet, followed by the Green-Rumped Parrotlet. You can expect an average of about $250 to $300 per year.
8. Pionus Parrot
The Pionus is a small to medium-sized parrot, and if you’re looking for a quiet and more laidback bird, the Pionus will be a great fit. They live for 20 to 40 years and are 9 to 11 inches long (depending on the species).
The Pionus is very friendly and affectionate but also independent, and the annual cost can range from $300 to $400 every year.
9. Quaker Parrot
The Quaker Parrot is also called the Monk Parakeet. They are 11 inches long and have a lifespan of approximately 25 or 30 years.
They are playful and energetic birds that would make a great addition to your family, and you can expect an average of $250 to $350 in annual costs for this parrot.
10. Senegal Parrot
Senegals are relatively quiet, intelligent, playful, and affectionate parrots that are 10 inches long. They can live for 20 to 30 or more years.
Senegals might not be noisy, but they are chewers, so you’ll need to provide them with plenty of toys and items to chew on. The annual cost range from $200 to $300.
- More detail here: How Much Does a Senegal Parrot Cost?
Conclusion
The general rule of thumb is that the smaller the bird, the less you’ll spend. But of course, this all depends on each individual bird. For example, the Caique requires a much more specialized diet, which will cost you more.
Additionally, if your parrot develops a health issue, your vet costs will increase your expenditures by quite a bit. So, it’s always a good idea to be aware of unexpected expenses that might creep up on you throughout your pet’s life.
It’s also good to remember that parrots live a very long time, with 80 years not being unheard of! So, they are long-term commitment pets whose annual expenses will add up. Owning a parrot is not for the faint of heart!
Remember that trying to save money while taking care of your parrot is fine; you just shouldn’t cut back on the important items, like high-quality food. The health and well-being of your parrot are much more important than saving a few bucks.
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Feature Image Credit: Suju-foto, Pixabay
