I will no longer share my business with The Exotic parrots home. They always clip my parrots' nails too short. And every time this happens, my bird clearly dislikes having me touch their feet, which was never an issue before.
The staff isn't as friendly, informed, or engaging as other stores I've visited. And none of the personnel appear to spend much time trying to socialize their birds, which I believe is most important. And their store mascots, the birds, are usually caged up, which is a sad fate for such beautiful creatures. I recall when they originally obtained Tootsie, one of their store's mascots. They got Tootsie since the previous owner was too old to care for her. Tootsie was extensively socialized throughout her life, and she displayed many evidence of spending the majority of her days outside a cage as a pleasant, loved bird.
The saddest part is that from the start, everyone wanted to buy Tootsie because she was so pleasant and awesome. Which I assumed was what all birds wanted: to find their one human or family. Not to be probed through a locked cage by random strangers all day.
Tootsie no longer cares about other people's interactions as much as she once did because her life is no longer as beautiful as she remembers.
I'm not sure why The Bird Shop is the only animal store that doesn't understand this basic concept about the LIFE of animals.
This is why I will no longer be supporting The Bird Shop. If I could give them less than one star, I would.
How to Spot a Healthy Emerald Macaw Before You Buy
Introduction: Why Picking a Healthy Macaw Matters
Buying an Emerald Macaw is a big decision—it’s not just a purchase; it’s a lifelong commitment. These stunning parrots can live 50 years or more, so choosing a healthy, well-socialized bird from the start is crucial. To enjoy this longevity with your parrot, you must learn how to choose a healthy emerald macaw.
As a California-based breeder specializing in hand-raised exotic birds, I’ve spent years raising happy, thriving Emerald Macaws. I’ve seen firsthand how a well-raised macaw can bring joy to a family—and how heartbreaking it is when people unknowingly buy a sick or poorly bred bird.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly what to look for in a healthy Emerald Macaw before you buy, whether you’re purchasing from a breeder, adopting, or searching for one online.
1. Why Choosing a Healthy Emerald Macaw Is Essential
An unhealthy macaw can lead to:
- Expensive vet bills down the line.
- Behavioral problems due to poor socialization.
- A shorter lifespan or chronic health issues.
A well-raised, hand-fed Emerald Macaw will be social, confident, and much easier to train. That’s why it’s always best to buy from a reputable breeder who provides CITES permits, health checks, and proper documentation.
2. Physical Signs of a Healthy Emerald Macaw
When learning how to choose a healthy emerald macaw, you must know the physical signs first of a healthy emerald macaw.
A. Bright, Clear Eyes
One of the first things to check is the eyes. Healthy Emerald Macaws should have:
- Bright, alert eyes with no cloudiness or discharge.
- No excessive blinking or squinting (which can indicate an infection).
I once had a customer visit my aviary and fall in love with a playful young macaw named Leo. He was curious, interactive, and had the clearest, most expressive eyes. That’s what you want to look for—a bird that is engaged and aware of its surroundings.
B. Strong, Vibrant Feathers
Feathers tell you a lot about a macaw’s health. Look for:
- Bright, well-groomed feathers without dullness.
- No bald patches (which could indicate stress or malnutrition).
- Smooth feather growth with no excessive plucking.
Macaws naturally preen, but constant scratching or missing feathers could be a red flag. A healthy bird will have sleek, smooth feathers that lay flat against the body.
C. Healthy Beak and Feet
A macaw’s beak and feet should be strong and well-formed. Watch out for:
- Overgrown or cracked beaks—this can mean poor diet or neglect.
- Scaly or flaking skin on the feet, which could indicate an infection.
- Weak grip or curled toes—healthy macaws should have a firm grip on perches.
3. Breathing and Vocalization Checks
A. Clear, Even Breathing
A healthy macaw should breathe smoothly and quietly. Warning signs of illness include:
- Wheezing or clicking sounds when breathing.
- Frequent tail bobbing, which could indicate respiratory distress.
B. Natural, Strong Vocalizations
Macaws are known for being loud and talkative, but their voice should sound strong and clear. A hoarse or raspy-sounding macaw may have respiratory issues.
4. Eating and Digestion: The Key to a Healthy Macaw
A. Good Appetite
A healthy Emerald Macaw will be eager to eat. Their diet should include:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables (like papaya, carrots, and leafy greens).
- High-quality pellets formulated for large parrots.
- Occasional nuts and seeds for variety.
If a macaw refuses food or looks uninterested, this can be a sign of stress or illness.
B. Healthy Droppings
Yes, checking a bird’s droppings is important! Healthy macaw droppings should be:
- Firm and well-formed, with a balance of solid and liquid.
- Consistently the same color (depending on diet).
- Not overly watery or discolored (which can indicate digestive issues).
5. Behavior and Socialization: The Personality Test
Macaws are highly intelligent and social birds, so their behavior is just as important as their physical health.
A. Interaction with Humans
A well-socialized macaw should be:
- Curious and playful, not withdrawn or fearful.
- Comfortable stepping onto a hand or perch when approached.
- Not overly aggressive or constantly lunging.
If a bird hides in the corner of its cage or refuses to interact, it may have trust issues or poor socialization.
B. Playfulness and Energy
A healthy macaw will:
- Show interest in toys and interaction.
- Be active and engaged rather than lethargic.
- Use its beak and feet to explore its environment.
6. Red Flags: Signs of an Unhealthy or Poorly Raised Macaw
Avoid buying a macaw if you notice:
Fluffed-up feathers for long periods (sign of illness).
Excessive sneezing or nasal discharge.
Constant screaming or feather plucking (signs of stress or anxiety).
A breeder unwilling to provide health records or CITES documentation.
7. Choosing a Trusted Breeder or Adoption Center
What to Look for in a Reputable Breeder
Not all breeders are the same. A responsible breeder will:
Provide CITES permits for legal ownership.
Offer health guarantees and vet-checked birds.
Socialize their macaws from a young age.
Allow visits or video calls to see the bird before buying.
As a breeder, I encourage potential buyers to ask questions. A good breeder should be transparent, knowledgeable, and passionate about the birds they raise.
Adoption vs. Buying: Which Is Right for You?
Some macaw lovers choose to adopt rather than buy. Adoption can be a great choice, but make sure:
- The rescue provides a full health check.
- The bird is well-socialized and not overly aggressive.
- You are prepared for possible behavioral rehabilitation.
8. Why Our California-Based Breeding Program Stands Out
At Exotic Parrots Home, we specialize in:
Hand-raised, socialized Emerald Macaws for sale and adoption.
Providing CITES permits for legal, ethical ownership.
Offering nationwide shipping with safe transport options.
Ensuring every macaw gets personalized attention and care.
If you’re looking for a healthy, happy, hand-raised Emerald Macaw, we’d love to help you find the perfect feathered companion.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Choosing a healthy Emerald Macaw is the first step toward a lifelong friendship with one of the world’s most intelligent and beautiful parrots. You must master the fundamentals on how to choose a healthy emerald macaw.
Key Takeaways:
Look for bright eyes, smooth feathers, and strong posture.
Avoid birds with labored breathing, dull feathers, or behavioral issues.
Buy from a trusted breeder who provides CITES permits and health guarantees.
Ready to find your perfect macaw? Check out our available Emerald Macaws for sale and adoption today!