At PDS Parrot Shop, we believe caring for a pet parrot is a deeply rewarding journey. Whether you’re new to parrots or refreshing your knowledge, mastering the basics of parrot care 101 is essential for raising a happy, healthy bird.

This all-in-one guide covers behavior, diet, enrichment, health, and special care tips every parrot owner should know!

Understanding Parrot Behavior

Why Parrots Pin Their Eyes

Have you ever noticed your parrot's pupils rapidly expanding and contracting? This is called "pinning eyes" — a fascinating and natural behavior. Parrots pin their eyes when they're excited, curious, playful, or sometimes when they feel threatened. Understanding this body language can help you respond appropriately and build stronger trust with your bird.

Reading Body Language

Parrots communicate with more than just their voices. They use their feathers, posture, eye movements, and sounds to express their emotions. Learning to recognize these subtle cues will help prevent misunderstandings, fear-based behavior, and bites.

Managing Noise Levels

Parrots are naturally vocal animals. While some noise is normal, excessive screaming often signals boredom, stress, or a need for attention. Managing your parrot’s environment, offering enrichment toys, and maintaining a predictable routine can help reduce unwanted screaming.

How Much Sleep Does a Parrot Need?

Sleep is a critical part of parrot care. Parrots require 10–12 hours of uninterrupted, restful sleep each night. Using a sleep cage or covering the cage in a quiet, dark room can promote better emotional balance and health.

Supporting a Healthy Diet

Why Seed-Only Diets Are Dangerous

A diet based only on seeds can lead to malnutrition, obesity, and liver problems. A healthy parrot diet should include:

• Fresh vegetables (like kale, carrots, and bell peppers)

• Fruits (like apples and blueberries, served moderately)

• Grains and sprouts

• Quality pellets

• Seeds and nuts as treats

A proper diet is a foundation of excellent parrot care.

Essential Enrichment and Exercise

Best Perches for Healthy Feet

Not all perches are created equal! Choosing the right perches is critical for your parrot’s foot and joint health. The best options include:

• Natural wood perches (like manzanita, dragonwood, or cholla)

• Rope perches (for climbing and flexibility)

Avoid plastic and sandpaper-covered perches, as these can cause foot injuries, sores, and arthritis over time. A variety of perch textures and diameters encourages strong feet and balanced muscles.

Check out our Natural Perch Collection at PDS Parrot Shop!

Wood Toys for Beak and Nail Maintenance

Parrot beaks and nails grow continuously and need natural wear. Safe, untreated wood toys give parrots a way to chew, helping to maintain healthy beak and nail length.

Keeping Wings Strong

Wings aren't just for flying — they’re essential for overall fitness. Even if a parrot’s wings are clipped, allowing safe wing flapping and climbing activities helps build strength and prevents muscle deterioration.

Understanding Pin Feathers: How to Help Your Parrot During Molting

What Are Pin Feathers?

Pin feathers are newly growing feathers that are still wrapped in a protective keratin sheath. They look like tiny straws and are very sensitive.

When your parrot is developing pin feathers, they may feel uncomfortable and even cranky. Do not pull or roughly touch pin feathers — it can be painful for your bird.

Helping with Molting

Molting is a natural cycle where old feathers shed and new ones grow in. It can last several weeks. Here's how to help your parrot during molting:

• Offer warm misting or baths to soften the keratin sheaths.

• Provide extra nutrition like leafy greens, sprouted seeds, and omega-3-rich foods.

• Be patient — molting can be tiring and uncomfortable for parrots.

Understanding pin feathers and the molting process is an important part of parrot care.

Maintaining Overall Parrot Health

Signs of Overgrown Beak or Nails

Beaks and nails that grow too long can lead to injury or difficulty eating. Encourage natural trimming through chewing toys, but consult an avian vet for professional grooming if needed.

Keeping Your Parrot Active and Engaged

Mental and physical enrichment is key to preventing behavioral problems. Rotate toys weekly, offer foraging opportunities, and allow out-of-cage time daily to meet your parrot's physical and social needs.

Must-Have Parrot Essentials at PDS Parrot Shop

At PDS Parrot Shop, we specialize in bird-safe products designed to support everything outlined in parrot care.

• Natural Wood Toys and Perches: For healthy feet and beaks

• Foraging Toys: To stimulate mental health

• Fresh Food Mixes: To boost nutrition

Shop our carefully curated selection here — everything we offer is designed with your parrot’s well-being in mind.

Conclusion: Mastering Parrot Care 101

Caring for a parrot goes beyond feeding and housing — it’s about understanding their body language, supporting their physical needs, and nurturing their mental health. By following these parrot care tips, you’ll set up a joyful, vibrant life for your feathered friend.

Visit PDS Parrot Shop today to find the best products and advice to support your parrot every step of the way!

More Articles about Bird Care

Anatomy of Parrot 

Petting Parrot: A Guide to Safe and Respectful Interaction

Bird Toys for Cage: How to Encourage Play

Bird Toys for Parakeets

Author: Monika Sangar
Co-founder of Prego Dalliance Sanctuary, Artisan of PDS Parrot Shop

Monika Sangar is a parrot rescuer, bird food chef, and toy designer with over a decade of experience in avian care and nutrition. She is the founder of Prego Dalliance Sanctuary and the author of The Science of Avian Nutrition, a cookbook dedicated to fresh, healthy meals for parrots. Explore more bird care tips and bird toys at PDS Parrot Shop!