How To Adopt A Parrot UK

Adopting a parrot is a big decision, and one that should come with careful thought, research, and compassion. Sadly, the world of parrot rescue in the UK can be a bit of a minefield, filled with well-meaning individuals, brilliant charities, and unfortunately, also some dishonest practices.

Whether you're ready to welcome a feathered companion or just exploring the idea, here’s what you need to know about where to adopt a parrot in the UK, and how to make sure you’re doing it the right way, for both you and the bird.

Not All Rescues Are Created Equal

Before handing over money or signing adoption paperwork, take time to look into the organisation or individual. Do they have a reputation in the community? Do others recommend them? Are they transparent with how they operate?

Things to look out for:

🦜 Do they offer support and advice before and after adoption?

🦜 Do they assess the home a bird is going to?

🦜 Are they willing to answer questions without being defensive?

🦜 Do they prioritise the bird’s welfare over a quick rehome?

Avoid anyone who pressures you into adopting quickly, refuses to answer questions, or doesn't seem to have the bird’s best interests at heart.

Shipping Birds? Walk Away.

No reputable rescue will ever offer to “ship a parrot to your door.” Birds are not parcels, and the idea of sending a parrot off with a courier or delivery van is not only incredibly stressful for the animal, but also raises a red flag about how much the rescue values welfare.

Adoptions should involve:

🦜 Meeting the bird in person, ideally multiple times

🦜 An adoption interview or home check

🦜 A clear process with documentation

If you're being told you can adopt a bird sight unseen and have it posted to you, it's best to walk away. Especially if they're asking for money up front without you ever having seen the bird.

Disease Testing Is Crucial

One of the biggest risks when adopting a parrot, especially if you already own birds, is unknowingly bringing home illness.

Always ask:

🦜 Has the bird been tested for Psittacosis, PBFD, Polyoma, or Avian Bornavirus?

🦜 Is there documentation to prove it?

🦜 When were these tests done?

Genuine rescues will be upfront about a bird’s health and will either provide recent results or help you arrange testing before adoption. If someone refuses or avoids the topic entirely, be cautious.

CITES and Licensing

Many parrot species fall under CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). This means certain parrots, like African Greys, require documentation under the UK’s Animal Welfare Act and CITES guidelines.

What to check:

🦜 Is the parrot a CITES-listed species?

🦜 Does it come with the correct Article 10 certificate, if needed?

🦜 Are there any licence requirements for owning it?

You don’t need to be an expert, but a good rescue will explain all of this to you clearly, and provide any necessary documents.

Ask Around

Parrot communities can be intense, but they’re also a great place to quietly ask for recommendations. Try to find people who’ve adopted before and ask:

🦜 Where they adopted from

🦜 What the experience was like

🦜 How the bird settled in

Word of mouth can be incredibly useful, especially when rescue websites and social pages can look polished, but not reflect how they truly operate.

Some Reputable UK Parrot Rescues to Explore

While it’s important to do your own research, here are a few well-known parrot rescues in the UK that are often recommended (always double-check their current practices yourself):

🦜 Busy Beaks Parrot Rescue

🦜 All Star Parrots

🦜 Safehaven Parrot Refuge

🦜 Birdline Parrot Rescue

🦜 Wing and a Prayer Parrot Rescue

🦜 Problem Parrots

(Please note: Inclusion here is not an endorsement, always do your homework.)

Adopting a parrot is about giving a second chance to a bird who needs a stable, loving home. It's not about “rescuing” a parrot quickly, or finding a cheap way to own one. It's about patience, respect, and long-term commitment.

If you feel unsure, pause. Ask questions. Get advice. And most importantly, listen to your gut. A bird’s wellbeing always comes first, and if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. If you need some help or guidance you can reach out to us here, we're happy to help.