Adopting a Rescue Bird: Where to Look and What to Expect
Thinking of adopting a parrot or other pet bird? Where to find rescue birds, why adoption comes first, and what a long-lived bird needs from you.
The World Parrot Trust encourages adopting from a well-regarded rescue or sanctuary over buying a bird. Adopting is a long commitment: the RSPCA notes that some parrots live for over 50 years, and that birds are hard to keep well in captivity, so it is worth researching the needs of the species you are considering first.
Where to look
Birbs does not list individual rescues. Places to start:
- Your avian vet or local animal shelter. The World Parrot Trust, which does not rehome parrots itself, points people to their avian vet or local shelter to find reputable rescues.
- United States and Canada: Petfinder’s bird search lists birds from shelters and rescues near a location you enter.
- England and Wales: the RSPCA Find a Pet search, which can include birds such as budgies; the RSPCA assesses each adoption individually.
Before you bring a bird home
- Read up on the species: its lifespan, noise, space and social needs. Our pet bird care guides cover many commonly kept species.
- Plan for a health check straight away — the AAV recommends one for every new bird, adopted or bought, to protect the bird and any others in your home. See how to find an avian vet.
- Expect a settling-in period; a rescued bird may need time and patience before it trusts you.
