Guide to Parrots Price in India: Types, Care, and Legal Aspects
Parrots, with their vivid colors and remarkable intelligence, have always fascinated people in India. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or considering a feathered companion, understanding the nuances of parrot ownership is crucial. This guide provides comprehensive insights into the types, prices, care requirements, and legal aspects of keeping parrots in India.
Native and Legal Parrot Breeds
India’s rich biodiversity includes several native parrot species like the Indian Ringneck and Alexandrine Parakeet. However, it’s important to note that keeping native Indian parrots as pets is illegal. This law aims to protect these birds from exploitation and preserve their natural habitats. Instead, enthusiasts can explore exotic breeds that are legally permissible as pets. These include African Greys, known for their intelligence, and colorful species like Macaws and Cockatoos.
Parrot Price in India
The cost of owning a parrot in India varies, influenced by factors such as species, age, rarity, and health. Here’s a general guide to some popular species:
| Parrot Species | Approx. Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| African Grey Parrot | 15,000 – 1,00,000 |
| Macaw Parrot | 30,000 – several lakhs |
| Cockatoo | 40,000 – 1,50,000 |
| Indian Ringneck Parakeet | 1,500 – 3,000 |
| Alexandrine Parrot | 5,000 – 15,000 |
| Parrot | 800 – 3,000 |
| Talking Parrot | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Grey Parrot | 15,000 – 25,000 |
| White Parrot | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Blue Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Amazon Parrot | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| African Parrot | 5,000 – 15,000 |
| Cockatiel Parrot | 1,000 – 2,500 |
| Alexander Parrot | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Ringneck Parrot | 1,500 – 3,000 |
| American Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Green Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Budgies Parrot | 200 – 800 |
| Baby Macaw Parrot | 20,000 – 40,000 |
| Plum Headed Parrot | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Budgie Parrot | 200 – 800 |
| Cockatoo Parrot | 20,000 – 50,000 |
| Macaw Baby Parrot | 15,000 – 30,000 |
| Cocktail Parrot | 800 – 2,500 |
| Yellow Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Australian Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Pahadi Parrot | Rarely Available |
| White Macaw Parrot | 20,000 – 40,000 |
| Blue Ringneck Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Speaking Parrot | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Cheapest Parrot | 800 – 1,500 |
| Real Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Quaker Parrot | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Red Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Blue Macaw Parrot | 30,000 – 50,000 |
| Eclectus Parrot | 15,000 – 25,000 |
| Plum Head Parrot | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Indian Ringneck Parrot | 1,500 – 3,000 |
| Baby Parrot | 800 – 2,500 |
| Caique Parrot | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Conure Parrot | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Ring Neck Parrot | 1,500 – 3,000 |
| Senegal Parrot | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Yellow Ringneck Parrot | 1,500 – 3,000 |
| Indian Parrot | 1,000 – 3,000 |
| Red Macaw Parrot | 30,000 – 50,000 |
| Blue and Gold Macaw Parrot | 30,000 – 50,000 |
| Parakeet Parrot | 200 – 800 |
| Blue Monk Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Colourful Parrot | 800 – 2,500 |
| Normal Parrot | 800 – 2,500 |
| Blue Quaker Parrot | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Monk Parrot | 800 – 2,500 |
| African Macaw Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Pionus Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Scarlet Macaw Parrot | 30,000 – 50,000 |
| Colorful Parrot | 800 – 2,500 |
| True Parrot | 800 – 2,500 |
| Small Parrot | 200 – 800 |
| Sun Conure Parrot | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Congo African Grey Parrot | 20,000 – 30,000 |
| Blue Indian Ringneck Parrot | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Black Parrot | Rarely Available |
| African Grey Parrot | 15,000 – 25,000 |
| Pahari Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Kakapo Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Rainbow Parrot | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Budgerigar Parrot | 200 – 800 |
| Red Lory Parrot | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Baby Green Parrot | 800 – 2,500 |
| African Greys Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Rosella Parrot | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Talking Macaw Parrot | 30,000 – 50,000 |
| Raw Parrot | 800 – 2,500 |
| White Ringneck Parrot | 1,500 – 3,000 |
| Yellow Naped Amazon Parrot | 20,000 – 40,000 |
| Gray Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Real Talking Parrot | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Hyacinth Macaw Parrot | 50,000 – 1,00,000 |
| Baby African Grey Parrot | 20,000 – 30,000 |
| Hiraman Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Green Ringneck Parrot | 1,500 – 3,000 |
| Grey African Parrot | Rarely Available |
| Green Talking Parrot | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Australian King Parrot | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Lory Parrot | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Bajri Parrot | Rarely Available |
| African Gray Parrot | 15,000 – 25,000 |
These prices are indicative and subject to change based on various factors. It’s always advisable to consult with a reputable breeder or pet store for the most current pricing.
Choosing the Right Parrot
Choosing the right parrot requires considering your lifestyle, space, and family. Larger species like Macaws need ample space and social interaction, while smaller species like Cockatiels might be more suitable for apartment living. It’s crucial to choose a species whose needs you can meet comfortably.
African Grey Parrot
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium, approximately 33 cm in length |
| Lifespan | Up to 60 years |
| Color | Predominantly grey with red tail |
| Personality | Highly intelligent, known for exceptional talking and mimicking abilities |
| Care Requirements | Needs mental stimulation, social interaction, and a varied diet |
| Suitable For | Experienced bird owners due to their complex social and intellectual needs |
Macaw
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Large, up to 100 cm in length |
| Lifespan | 50 years or more |
| Color | Vibrant colors, varies by species |
| Personality | Social, playful, can be loud |
| Care Requirements | Requires a large space, mental and physical stimulation |
| Suitable For | Owners who can provide ample space and time |
Cockatoo
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium to large, up to 60 cm in length |
| Lifespan | Can live up to 70 years |
| Color | Mostly white, pink, or grey; varies by species |
| Personality | Affectionate, can be demanding; known for their crest |
| Care Requirements | Needs constant social interaction, mental stimulation |
| Suitable For | Owners able to devote significant time and attention |
Indian Ringneck Parakeet
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium, around 40 cm in length |
| Lifespan | Around 30 years |
| Color | Green is common; also found in yellow, blue, and other colors |
| Personality | Intelligent, able to mimic words; can be independent |
| Care Requirements | Requires social interaction and mental stimulation |
| Suitable For | Both beginner and experienced bird owners |
Alexandrine Parakeet
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Large for a parakeet, up to 58 cm in length |
| Lifespan | Up to 40 years |
| Color | Green with red patch on wings |
| Personality | Intelligent, playful, can be noisy |
| Care Requirements | Needs space for exercise, enjoys interactive play |
| Suitable For | Owners who can provide an engaging environment |
Parrot Care and Maintenance
A parrot’s cage should be spacious, with safe perches, stimulating toys, and proper feeding bowls. The diet should include fresh fruits, vegetables, high-quality pellets, and occasional treats. Supplements might be necessary for certain species. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and attention to any health issues are crucial for your parrot’s well-being.
Caring for Your Parrot: Nutrition and Health
A crucial aspect of parrot care is nutrition. Parrots require a diet rich in variety, consisting of:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Offer a mix of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Safe choices include apples (without seeds), bananas, carrots, and leafy greens. Avoid avocado and chocolate, as they are toxic to birds.
- Seeds and Pellets: While seeds can be part of the diet, they should not be the sole food source due to high-fat content. Pellets formulated for parrots provide balanced nutrition and should form the basis of their diet.
- Supplements: Depending on the species, supplements like calcium or vitamins may be necessary, especially for birds on a seed-heavy diet. Consult a veterinarian for tailored advice.
Healthcare is another critical element:
- Veterinary Visits: Regular check-ups with an avian veterinarian are essential. Parrots can hide illnesses well, so routine visits can help catch any issues early.
- Common Health Problems: Be aware of signs of illness, such as changes in behavior, feather plucking, or loss of appetite. Early detection is key to effective treatment.
The Social Life of Parrots
Parrots are inherently social creatures. They thrive on interaction, which makes them both charming and demanding pets. Here are some tips to ensure your parrot is socially engaged:
- Daily Interaction: Spend time each day interacting with your parrot. This can include talking, training, or playing.
- Mental Stimulation: Provide toys that encourage problem-solving and physical activity. Regularly rotate these toys to keep your parrot’s environment stimulating.
- Training: Parrots enjoy learning and can be taught a variety of tricks and commands. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as using treats or praises, work best.
Housing Your Parrot: Cage Requirements and Setup
The cage is your parrot’s home and should be as comfortable and stimulating as possible:
- Size: The cage should be large enough for your parrot to flap its wings and move around freely. Larger species require larger cages.
- Location: Place the cage in a lively area of your home to ensure social interaction, but avoid overly noisy or drafty spots.
- Accessories: Include multiple perches of varying sizes to exercise their feet. Add chewable toys, mirrors, bells, and ladders to provide entertainment and exercise.
Parrot Training and Behavior
Training is an excellent way to bond with your parrot and keep its mind active:
- Basics: Start with basic commands like ‘step-up’ (stepping onto your hand) and ‘come’. Use treats as motivation.
- Speech and Mimicry: Many parrots, especially species like African Greys and Indian Ringnecks, are capable of mimicking speech. Encourage this by repeatedly speaking short phrases around them.
- Behavioral Issues: If your parrot exhibits behavioral problems like screaming or biting, consult a bird behaviorist. Often, these issues stem from boredom or stress.
Legal Aspects of Parrot Ownership
Understanding the legal framework surrounding parrot ownership in India is critical:
- Wildlife Protection: The Wildlife Protection Act in India governs the trade and ownership of native and exotic wildlife, including parrots.
- Exotic Species: Ensure that any exotic species you intend to own is legally imported and sold in India. Always ask for proper documentation when purchasing a parrot.
The Ethics of Parrot Ownership
Ethical considerations are paramount:
- Conservation: Be aware of the conservation status of the parrot species you wish to own. Some are endangered and better left in the wild or in conservation programs.
- Rescue and Adoption: Consider adopting a parrot from a rescue center. This not only provides a home for a bird in need but also discourages illegal breeding and trade.
Costs and Long-Term Commitment
Owning a parrot is a long-term commitment, both financially and time-wise. The initial cost of purchasing a parrot is just the beginning. Ongoing expenses include food, veterinary care, toys, and cage maintenance. Parrots have long lifespans, often outliving their owners, so consider the future care of your pet as well.
Conclusion
Parrots are captivating and intelligent companions but require dedicated care and attention. This guide aims to provide you with the knowledge and tools to ensure a fulfilling and responsible parrot ownership experience. Remember, a well-cared-for parrot can bring years of joy and companionship to your home.
