Exotic birds are beautiful, social, and intelligent creatures. They’ve become an increasingly popular pet found in pet stores or through private breeders, and are sometimes stolen from the wild and sold through the illegal wildlife trade. People are drawn to their beauty, but they don’t always fully understand the commitment involved with caring for an exotic pet.

Birds are wild creatures, meaning they might bite or become agitated when handled. They are also quite vocal and require mental stimulation and a well-balanced diet (not just bird seed) to keep them healthy and happy. Lifespan is another factor that sets them apart from other companion animals. Smaller birds can live up to 20 years, and larger birds like cockatoos and macaws can live up to 80 or even 100 years. When a bird becomes too much to handle, a family can no longer commit to their care, or a caregiver passes away, the birds are surrendered or euthanized. There are thousands of birds surrendered every year, placing a strain on organizations trying to keep up with demand. And since birds require special care, it’s important to make sure they find the right home.


Taking care of an exotic bird requires a lot of work and dedication, so when these beautiful feathered creatures find themselves in need of rescuing, these organizations are working to provide them with everything they need to live the long and happy life they deserve.

1. Feathered Friends Sanctuary and Rescue

Feathered Friends Sanctuary and Rescue/Facebook

With a mission of providing homeless and abandoned parrots a second chance, Feathered Friends Sanctuary and Rescue in Wisconsin works to rescue, rehabilitate, and find adoptive homes for captive birds. They work to educate potential adopters about proper bird care and ensure that each animal finds a home that’s the right fit. The sanctuary has even received assistance from famous animal lover Bob Barker, who paid off the remainder of their mortgage after the founder sadly passed away. Because of his generosity and the organization’s dedicated volunteers and supporters, the birds will never have to worry about losing their home.

2. Florida Exotic Bird Sanctuary


Florida Exotic Bird Sanctuary/Facebook

Recognizing the issue of an increasing number of captive birds needing homes, the Florida Exotic Bird Sanctuary provides a safe and permanent place for displaced and abandoned birds to seek refuge. The birds are given the best life possible, including open-flight aviaries and specialized care for those with behavioral issues or special needs. The sanctuary doesn’t offer any of the birds for adoption, but bird enthusiasts can go on scheduled tours of the sanctuary. They also have volunteer opportunities for those interested in helping to care for the more than 700 birds at the sanctuary.


3. Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue

Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue/Facebook


Located in sunny California, Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue is a foster-based organization committed to helping homeless and neglected birds find adoptive families who will love them forever. They help bring sick and injured birds back to health and care for those that have been neglected. The organization rescues up to 400 birds each year and works in the community to educate people about the overpopulation crisis for captive birds. To help ensure that all birds receive the best care possible in their new homes, the organization also offers free classes and online resources for new and experienced caregivers.

4. The Oasis Sanctuary

The Oasis Sanctuary/Facebook

When exotic birds have been abused or suffer from conditions that might make it harder for them to find a home, The Oasis Sanctuary in Arizona makes sure they have a safe place to stay for the rest of their lives. The organization tries to replicate natural habitats for the more than 400 birds that call the Sanctuary home to keep them as comfortable as possible. Outside of the sanctuary, they work to advocate for both captive and wild birds through educational initiatives. Even though they don’t adopt out the birds in their care, people can still meet them by scheduling a tour of the sanctuary, or by signing up to volunteer for animal care and special projects.

Bringing a Feathered Friend Into Your Home

If you’d like to give an exotic bird a loving home, adoption is the only responsible option. Do plenty of research ahead of time and talk to avian rescues that can help you decide whether a bird is the right fit for your family and lifestyle. Birds require a lot of special care, and you’ll need to be prepared for a long-term commitment.

If you don’t want to adopt, you can also make a difference by donating to a local exotic bird rescue or volunteering to help care for the animals.


Lead image source: pixabay