Parrots are highly intelligent and social birds that can form strong bonds with their owners. However, many parrot owners wonder if their parrots can or should live with other bird species. There are a few factors to consider when deciding if parrots can cohabitate with other types of birds.
The Natural Behavior of Parrots
In the wild, parrots live in large, noisy flocks with birds of their own species. They form tight social bonds and require a lot of interaction and stimulation. Because of this, some experts believe parrots will be happiest living only with other parrots who speak their “language” and understand their behaviors.
That said, some parrot species do live alongside other bird species in the wild. For example, Amazon parrots in the rainforest are often seen foraging and interacting with macaws and toucans. Additionally, parrots in captivity have been known to form bonds with birds of different species when raised together from a young age.
Potential Risks of Housing Parrots With Other Birds
There are some risks associated with housing parrots with other bird species. One concern is that the other birds may behave aggressively and attack the parrot. Parrots have soft beaks that can easily be damaged by more powerful hooks and beaks of birds of prey.
Birds of different sizes and species may also have incompatible activity levels. Smaller finches and canaries are very active during the day. Parrots tend to be louder and more rambunctious in the mornings and evenings. This mismatch of activity patterns can cause stress.
There is also a risk of transmitting diseases and parasites between different bird species. Parrots are susceptible to air sac mites and intestinal parasites found in other bird species. Psittacosis, a bacterial infection, can spread between parrots and other birds.
Bonding Behaviors
Parrots form very strong bonds with other birds that they view as their “flock.” In the wild, they spend nearly all their time with their flock. They preen each other, perch next to each other, and forage for food together. If a parrot does not view other birds in its environment as its flockmates, it can become stressed and anxious.
Some ways parrots display social bonding behaviors include:
- Preening each other’s heads and necks
- Chewing gently on each other’s feet
- Rubbing beaks
- Vocalizing back and forth
- Sitting right next to each other on perches
Parrots that display these behaviors are likely forming a close social bond. Birds that do not interact much or seem to avoid each other are probably not a good match.
Good Candidates for Parrot Pairings
While there are no definitive rules, some types of birds tend to do better with parrots than others:
- Another parrot species – Parrots tend to bond most readily with other parrots. But be careful pairing two different sized species that might compete over food, toys, or perches.
- Cockatiels – Gentle cockatiels and parrots often get along well. Cockatiels enjoy some of the same foods and activities.
- Doves – Peaceful doves can be good companions for mellow, gentle parrot species when the size difference is not too great.
It’s best to choose another bird that has a similar activity level and temperament to the parrot. Avoid finches, canaries, and birds of prey that may be stressed by noisy parrots.
Introducing Parrots and Other Birds
When introducing any new bird, go slowly to allow the birds to get to know each other:
- House the birds in separate but neighboring cages so they can see and vocalize with each other.
- Allow supervised time together while watching closely for signs of stress or aggression.
- Monitor their interactions until you are sure they have bonded and display preening, feeding, and perching together.
- Never leave them unsupervised until they have fully settled in together.
It’s a good idea to have a backup cage ready in case the new bird pairing does not work out. Some parrots will not accept new species right away but may become companions over a long period of gradual introduction.
Ensuring Healthy Cohabitation
If parrots are housed with another bird species, here are some tips to reduce stress and promote positive interactions:
- Provide plenty of food, water, toys, and perches to prevent competition over resources.
- Arrange perches at different heights suited to each bird’s size and abilities.
- Ensure each bird has a “safe zone” it can retreat to for privacy.
- Clean the habitat frequently to prevent buildup of parasites or pathogens.
- Clip wings periodically so neither bird is stressed by the other flying.
- Separate immediately if there are signs of aggression or fear.
With careful supervision, some parrots can cohabitate successfully with other bird species. However, parrots will likely form the strongest bond with members of their own species. Talk to your avian vet for their advice if you want to house your parrot with another type of bird.
Signs of Stress in Parrots
It’s important to monitor your parrot closely for any signs of stress when introducing a new bird. Signs your parrot may be stressed or unhappy with a living companion can include:
- Increased screaming, biting, or aggressive behavior
- Excessive self-mutilation like feather plucking
- Changes in appetite or droppings
- Pulling away or hiding from the other bird
- Pacing, head bobbing, or repetitive behaviors
- Loss of interest in normal activities like playing
If you observe any stress signals, separate the parrot immediately and reassess whether the living situation is right for your bird. Consult an avian vet about anti-anxiety medications if needed.
The Ideal Flock for Your Parrot
While some parrots can live harmoniously with other bird species, the best flockmates for a parrot are often other parrots. Here are some pairing ideas that often work well:
Parrot Pairs
| Parrot Species 1 | Parrot Species 2 |
|---|---|
| Budgie | Cockatiel |
| Conure | Pionus |
| Macaw | Amazon |
| Cockatoo | Caique |
Try to pair parrots of similar size and energy levels when possible.
Flock Combinations
Sometimes multiple parrots can live together successfully in a mini-flock. Some good options are:
- Green cheek conure + monk parakeet + rose-breasted cockatoo
- Budgie pair + cockatiel pair
- African grey + blue and gold macaw + hawk-headed parrot
- Lovebird pair + orange-winged Amazon
Aim for 3-5 parrots at most in a mixed flock to prevent excessive competition or aggression.
Conclusion
Parrots are highly social birds that thrive when living with other birds they accept as their flock. Some parrots can bond with compatible birds of other species. However, most parrots do best when housed with members of their own species.
By introducing birds slowly, providing ample resources, and carefully monitoring interactions, some parrots can live happily with other bird types. But ultimately, the best flockmates for parrots tend to be other parrots with similar characteristics and needs.
