
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.
FAQ: Adopting a Parrot in the UK
How do I spot a reputable parrot rescue?
Look for transparency, a home check or interview, proper paperwork, willingness to answer questions, and after-adoption support. Pressure to “decide today” is a red flag.
Is it ever OK for a rescue to ship a parrot to me?
No. Reputable rescues will not courier parrots. You should meet the bird (ideally more than once) and complete checks before adoption.
What health tests should I ask for before adopting?
Request recent, documented testing for Psittacosis (Chlamydia psittaci), PBFD, Polyomavirus, and Avian Bornavirus. If results aren’t available, ask to arrange testing before the bird comes home.
Do I need CITES or an Article 10 certificate?
Some species (e.g., African Grey) are CITES-listed and require correct documentation (such as an Article 10) in the UK. A good rescue will explain requirements and provide the paperwork.
What are common adoption scams and warning signs?
Promises to post the bird to you, requests for upfront payment before any meeting, refusal to provide test results or ID, and defensiveness when questioned. If your gut says no, walk away.
Should I pay a deposit before meeting the bird?
Avoid sending money before you’ve met the bird and verified the rescue, paperwork, and health testing. Legitimate rescues are happy to proceed after due checks.
I already have parrots, do I need to quarantine a new arrival?
Yes. Quarantine in a separate airspace for at least 30 days (longer if testing is pending). Wash hands, change clothes between birds, and complete all health checks before mixing.
What should a fair parrot adoption process include?
A meet-and-greet (often multiple), an application and home check, transparent fees, recent health info, and a clear contract outlining welfare expectations and return policy.
How can I prepare my home before adoption?
Set up a safe cage and play areas, remove scented candles/aerosols, establish a quiet sleep space, and plan a vet check with an avian vet. Have fresh food and enrichment ready.
What questions should I ask the rescue about the bird?
Ask about diet, medical history, test results and dates, behavioural triggers, sleep routine, previous environment, and any training cues that already work.