“Buying a parrot on vacation! Who would do that?!” You cry, the thought being absolutely ridiculous. But people really do. They go to tourist traps in places like Pigeon Forge, fall in love with the beautiful birds there, and then wander into the gift shop where baby parrots are being sold to tourists like hermit crabs.
Do Not Buy A Parrot While On Vacation
I am not going to tell you not to buy a parrot. You can buy a parrot elsewhere, I promise you. And it will be a parrot that is better behaved, healthier, cheaper, and more ethically bred. Just do not buy a parrot on vacation.
Sometimes, tourist establishments will brand themselves as “ecotourism,” trying to make themselves look like what they are doing is environmentally conscious. It isn’t. Don’t buy parrots on vacation. Or any other pet for that matter.
Why It's a Bad Idea to Purchase Parrots on Vacation
Exotic birds like parrots require a lifetime commitment. They often live decades (cockatiels up to 25 years, macaws and cockatoos for 60+ years) and need specialized care, ample social interaction, and significant financial investment. Buying a bird on a whim during a vacation is unlikely to result in the long-term care and environment these animals need to thrive.
Your vacation rental could also kill your new baby bird! When used, most cookware gives off fumes that kill birds so it. It would suck to kill your new pet bird you bought in Gatlinburg while cooking dinner at the cabin because the cabin cookware isn’t bird safe. Many cleaners are dangerous to birds as well, and you can’t control what products your vacation rental has been cleaned with.
Additionally, the birds being sold at places like Parrot Mountain are way more expensive than they would be at actual ethical breeders or bird sanctuaries! Don’t get ripped off!
What Should You Consider Before Getting a Parrot?
If you’re serious about adopting a parrot or exotic bird, or really any sort of exotic pet, here are some things to consider:
- Commitment: Parrots demand significant time, energy, and resources. Their intelligence means they need constant mental stimulation, social interaction, and spacious living conditions.
- Financial Responsibility: A suitable cage, high-quality food, toys, and routine veterinary care (including annual check-ups and grooming) can be costly.
- Longevity: These birds live for decades. Your commitment needs to extend beyond a few years.
- Ethical Sourcing: Avoid facilities like Parrot Mountain that breed birds irresponsibly or market them to unprepared buyers. Instead, consider adopting from a rescue or working with a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and welfare of their birds.
