Big Parrots

Majestic Companions with Unique Needs

Large parrots, such as Macaws, Cockatoos, Amazon and Eclectus, are among the most captivating and admired species in aviculture. Known for their intelligence, beauty, and strong personalities, these birds require specialized care and nutrition to maintain their vibrant health and long lifespans. At The Aviarist, we understand that feeding plays a vital role in the wellbeing of big parrots, which is why our Big Parrot Seed Mix is formulated to meet their unique dietary needs.

Big parrots are admired worldwide not only for their beauty but also for their ability to form lifelong bonds with their owners, making them both a joy and a responsibility to keep.

Types of Big Parrots

Big parrots are a diverse group of large, intelligent, and colorful birds, admired for their beauty, strong personalities, and ability to bond with humans. Some of the most well-known types include:

1. Macaws

Macaws are among the largest parrots, famous for their long tails, powerful beaks, and striking colors. Popular species include the Blue-and-Gold Macaw, Scarlet Macaw, and Hyacinth Macaw. They are highly social, energetic, and need spacious environments.

2. Cockatoos

Cockatoos are easily recognized by their expressive crests and affectionate nature. Species like the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Umbrella Cockatoo, and Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo are popular pets. They are playful and intelligent but require constant interaction.

3. Amazon Parrots

Amazon parrots are medium-to-large birds with bright green plumage and strong personalities. Popular species include the Yellow-headed Amazon and Blue-fronted Amazon. They are excellent talkers and love singing.

5. Eclectus Parrots

Eclectus parrots are unique for their sexual dimorphism: males are bright green, while females are deep red and purple. They are calm, gentle, and thrive in environments with fresh fruits and vegetables.

6. Other Large Parrots

Some other notable large parrots include the Hawk-headed Parrot, Derbyan Parakeet, and Cape Parrot. Each has distinct traits, making them special in aviculture.

Big parrots are not only admired for their striking appearance but also for their intelligence and ability to form lifelong bonds. However, they require proper care, enrichment, and nutrition to stay healthy and happy.

Why Choose Our Seed Mix for Big Parrots?

Feeding large parrots isn’t just about keeping them full—it’s about providing the right nutrition to support their intelligence, beauty, and longevity. Whether you own a Macaw, Cockatoo, Amazone and Eclectus, or other large parrot species, our premium Big Parrot Seed Mix is carefully crafted to keep them healthy, active, and thriving.

Nutritional Requirements

Big parrots like Macaws, Cockatoos, Amazon and Eclectus Parrots have higher nutritional demands than smaller species due to their large body size, longer lifespan, and higher activity levels. However, each has unique needs (for example, Eclectus parrots require more fiber and Vitamin A)

Here’s a complete breakdown of their nutritional requirements :

Macronutrients

Protein

Protein supports feather growth, tissue repair, fertility, and strong chick development.

- Maintenance: 12–15%

- Breeding/Chick Rearing: 18–20%

Fats

Fats provide energy and help maintain glossy plumage. They should come from healthy sources like nuts and seeds.

- Maintenance: 5–8%

- Breeding/High Energy Needs: 10–12%

Carbohydrates & Fiber

- 50–60% of diet.

Supplies energy and maintains digestive health.

Vitamins

- Vitamin A: Supports vision, skin, and immune health. Found in carrots, pumpkin, papaya, and leafy greens.

- Vitamin D3: Essential for calcium absorption; sunlight or supplements are necessary.

- Vitamin E: Important for reproduction and overall health.

Minerals

- Calcium & Phosphorus: Vital for bone strength, egg production, and muscle function. Sources include cuttlebone, mineral blocks, and leafy greens.

- Iron & Zinc: Needed for blood health, immunity, and growth.

Dietary Balance

Big parrots thrive on a balanced diet made up of:

- 40–50% Seed Mix (formulated for Big Parrots)

- 20–30% Fresh Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, broccoli)

- 15–20% Fresh Fruits (papaya, apple, berries, mango)

- 5–10% Nuts & Seeds (almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds as treats)

Breeding Season Adjustments

- Protein: Raised to 16–18% for chick development.

- Fat: Slightly higher (Macaws 14–16%, Cockatoos 8–9%, Eclectus 8–10%).

- Calcium & Vitamin D3: Must be increased to prevent egg-binding and weak chicks.

- Soft, sprouted, and soaked foods: Easier for parents to feed chicks.

Water

Fresh, clean water must always be available. Even mild dehydration causes stress, poor digestion, and reduced breeding performance.

Breeding Care of Big Parrots

Breeding big parrots such as Macaws, Cockatoos, Amazons, Eclectus and African Greys requires patience, specialized knowledge, and careful management. These birds form strong pair bonds and need the right environment to reproduce successfully.

1. Pair Selection

Choose healthy, mature parrots (usually 4–7 years old depending on species). Birds should be DNA-sexed, unrelated, and free from hereditary or health issues. A compatible, bonded pair is more likely to breed successfully.

2. Housing & Aviary Setup

Big parrots need large, spacious aviaries that allow flying, climbing, and privacy. Each breeding pair should be housed separately to reduce stress. Strong cages and perches are necessary, as parrots have powerful beaks.

3. Nesting Facilities

Provide sturdy nest boxes appropriate for each species (vertical or horizontal, depending on preference). The box should be secure, lined with safe nesting materials such as untreated wood chips or shredded paper.

4. Nutrition

Breeding pairs require a nutrient-rich diet. Increase protein (18–20%) through legumes, soaked seeds, and egg food. Fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, calcium supplements, and bio-secure seed mixes are essential to support egg production and chick growth.

5. Environmental Conditions

Stable temperatures, proper ventilation, and low stress are critical. Seasonal changes and longer daylight hours often stimulate breeding behavior.

6. Monitoring & Care

Regularly observe pairs without disturbing them. Ensure eggs are fertile and chicks are developing properly. Hand-feeding may be necessary in some cases, though many species are attentive parents.

7. Health Management

Maintain hygiene in the aviary and provide regular veterinary check-ups. Parasite control and vaccinations (if recommended) are important for breeder health.

8. Post-Breeding Care

After breeding, allow pairs to rest before the next cycle. Adequate nutrition and recovery time prevent stress and over-breeding.

Breeding big parrots can be highly rewarding but requires dedication, investment, and ethical responsibility. With proper care, breeders not only ensure healthy chicks but also contribute to the conservation of these magnificent birds.

Commercial Aspect of Breeding Big Parrots

Breeding big parrots, such as Macaws, Cockatoos, Eclectus, African Greys, and Amazons, holds significant commercial value in the aviculture industry. Due to their intelligence, vibrant plumage, and ability to mimic human speech, these birds are highly sought after as companion pets across the world.

High Market Demand:

Big parrots are prized for their talking ability, long lifespan, and affectionate personalities. Species like African Greys and Blue-and-Gold Macaws fetch premium prices due to their popularity and rarity.

Long-Term Value:

Because many big parrots live for 40–70 years, buyers often view them as lifelong companions, which increases their commercial appeal. Well-bred, hand-raised chicks are especially valuable.

Breeding Profitability:

While the initial investment in breeding pairs, aviary setup, and nutrition is high, returns can be rewarding. Successful breeders often supply to pet stores, private collectors, and bird enthusiasts. Rare species, like Hyacinth Macaws or Major Mitchell’s Cockatoos, can command very high prices.

Challenges & Responsibilities:

Breeding big parrots requires expertise, spacious aviaries, bio-secure diets, and proper veterinary care. Their sensitivity, strong pair bonds, and specific breeding conditions make them challenging but rewarding to breed.

Global Trade & Regulations:

Many large parrot species are protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). Commercial breeders must follow legal guidelines, ensuring birds are captive-bred and not wild-caught.

In summary, breeding big parrots is not just profitable but also contributes to conservation when done responsibly. With proper care and ethical practices, it can be a sustainable and rewarding commercial venture.

Why The Aviarist Seed Mix?

Feeding large parrots isn’t just about keeping them full—it’s about providing the right nutrition to support their intelligence, beauty, and longevity. Whether you own a Macaw, Cockatoo, Eclectus, or other large parrot species, our premium Big Parrot Seed Mix is carefully crafted to keep them healthy, active, and thriving.