Bureau of Animal Health

Psittacine Birds

Psittacine birds include all birds that belong to the parrot family. Other psittacine birds are: cockatoos, conures, lories, macaws, and parakeets.

Psittacine birds are not domesticated animals; whether born in captivity or captured in the wild, they are still wild animals. Their natural curiosity, sensitivity, intellect, playfulness and ability to form bonds with humans are the characteristics that make these birds interesting pets. Unfortunately, the traits that make parrots so intriguing are the same ones that make them extremely difficult to live with as companion animals. Educate yourself about parrots before bringing one into your life.

Photo courtesy of Foster Parrots, Ltd. Rockland, MA