Jardine's Lifespan

[B49]

I am in the process of narrowing down my options in choosing a baby parrot. I like the African Greys and several other species but I have a special liking for the Jardine's parrot. However, one of my preferences in choosing a bird is one that will hopefully see me through the majority of my expected life (50-60 years). Odd as though it may seem, this is really important to me in selecting a species. Does the Jardine's Parrot have the potential of living 50 years like the African Grey?

Thank you!

[Monica]

Probably not... I'd guess that life expectancy is about 30 years, give or take.. although I may have heard of a few birds who lived 10+ years past their expected life expectancy.... believe they were cockatiels (20 years life expectancy) and a quaker (30 years life expectancy).... so it may be possible to live longer... so long as it's properly taken care of....

[B49]

Originally Posted by Monica

Probably not... I'd guess that life expectancy is about 30 years, give or take.. although I may have heard of a few birds who lived 10+ years past their expected life expectancy.... believe they were cockatiels (20 years life expectancy) and a quaker (30 years life expectancy).... so it may be possible to live longer... so long as it's properly taken care of....

Thank you for your prompt reply.

If I may ask, what species would I be limited to in looking for a bird that has a 50-60 year life expectency? Are there any "smaller" larger birds in that category?

[Monica]

When your looking at 50+ years, your looking at species such as macaws (there are mini macaws! although a mini's life expectancy may be 30-40), african greys, amazons (some small amazons), and cockatoos (some small toos as well).

Sometimes its hard to say what the life expectancy of a parrot is because we are still so new in aviculture and therefore we are still learning about proper diet, among other things. 5+ years ago, the average life expectancy for a canary was 2-5 years... for budgies it was the same or up to 8 years. Well, I know that both species can live up to 20 years (a member here had a canary die short of it's 20th birthday). Cockatiels can live to be at least 20, but I'm sure I've heard of a few who were older (up to 30 years maybe?). And on a website they said that due to a quakers band they believed it to be 50....

So, in truth, I could tell you a birds expected life span, but there may be birds who have lived longer than that... certainly with new research we may have birds living longer... however, that certainly doesn't guarantee the bird will live that long... as there could be unexpected tragedies (an escape, an attack by another animal, a fire, or otherwise) or even illness which could possibly shorten a birds life...

[B49]

Thank you for your helpful insight Monica. To give you some background, I'm 19 years old and have had experience with birds all of my life. I've had birds, budgies and conures. I helped friends care for larger parrots, Macaws and Greys. So I know what I'm getting into. I know the amount of time and dedication needed to keep these avian miracles happy and healthy. My childhood budgie died of cancer in November 2006. After about a month of getting beyond that tragic event, I had spoken with my family and everyone involved through it would be a good idea to take a baby parrot into the house. Unfortunately, my grandmother (who lived with me my entire life) became unexpectedly ill and was perpetually tired. She lost a lot of weight and her body ached everywhere. During this time, I deemed that it was entirely inappropriate to introduce a bird into a confused and worried environment. This past October brought the worst news I had ever encountered. Grandma was diagnosed with lung cancer and had six months maximum to live. My parents, aunt and uncle had to work during and my 16 year old brother - who is in high school - could not care for her. Consequently, my cousin Nicole and I stayed home with our Grandmother so she did not have to die alone in a lonely Hospice or nursing facility. October 27th would be the last day of her life. It's been a difficult road. She didn't have much money, but the remainder of her funds was left to me for a baby parrot. I want to make the right decision.

[Monica]

Lovely, but sad story. I'm 19 as well and have only been into birds for a little over 7 years now...

I'm not sure what you may plan on doing with the rest of your life, but wanted to give ya something else to think about (considering your age).... do you plan on going to college? Living in a dorm? Getting married and having kids? Traveling the world? So much could possibly happen and your life could change or there may be a time when you could not bring your bird with you. Could you board the bird or leave him with family? I'm certainly not trying to discourage you, but just give you some thoughts about the future, so that you could plan ahead incase something were to happen and you couldn't have your bird with you.

I certainly can't tell you what would be the best species as some people are not prepaired for a larger bird, likewise, I've met some young teens who owned and cared for larger species (usually with the help of the parents) without problems.

In all honestly though, I'd say that any medium, to medium-large species of parrot would do well with you so long as you could afford the bird throughout it's life.

[B49]

Originally Posted by Monica

Lovely, but sad story. I'm 19 as well and have only been into birds for a little over 7 years now...

I'm not sure what you may plan on doing with the rest of your life, but wanted to give ya something else to think about (considering your age).... do you plan on going to college? Living in a dorm? Getting married and having kids? Traveling the world? So much could possibly happen and your life could change or there may be a time when you could not bring your bird with you. Could you board the bird or leave him with family? I'm certainly not trying to discourage you, but just give you some thoughts about the future, so that you could plan ahead incase something were to happen and you couldn't have your bird with you.

In all honestly though, I'd say that any medium, to medium-large species of parrot would do well with you so long as you could afford the bird throughout it's life.

Actually, I'm in college right now and live at home. I'll be going in for law. My family and I have been discussing this all day. My father's main objections are to any bird whose natural tendencies (not tendencies after abuse, which are common in any mistreated parrot) are excessive screaming and constant biting. To me, my hunch is that this rules out any Amazon, Macaw, or Moluccan/Umbrella Cockatoo.

[Barb E]

[. My father's main objections are to any bird whose natural tendencies (not tendencies after abuse, which are common in any mistreated parrot) are excessive screaming and constant biting.

To me, my hunch is that this rules out any Amazon, Macaw, or Moluccan/Umbrella Cockatoo.[/quote]


Sorry, but you're absolutely mistaken in this "hunch".
My Meyers (which is a small parrot) makes alot more noise and bites unpredictably whereas my macaw is quieter and only nips if he gets too excited or feels threatened.

If I were to get another parrot, it would NOT be a baby bird. Yes, they're cute and sweet but you don't know what their personality will be when they mature.

[Monica]

I've noticed that small birds have a tendency to bite more than larger species... although this isn't always true.... although larger birds can be pretty loud, smaller birds can be chattier throughout the day. But then that all depends on how you look at it!


B49, I can only then suggest that you go and interact with the species you are interested in and let one choose you!

[birdsnreps]

as far as i know, jardines should live about 40 years...if you find a breeder that breeds greater jardines let me know!! all i ever ind are the lessers :(