How Long Do Parrots Live?
Short answer: it depends hugely on the species. Budgies usually live 5 to 10 years and cockatiels 15 to 20, while large parrots such as African greys, Amazons, cockatoos and macaws often live 40 to 60 years or more and can outlive their owners.
Parrot lifespan by species
| Species | Typical lifespan in captivity |
|---|---|
| Budgie (parakeet) | 5-10 years |
| Lovebird | 10-15 years |
| Cockatiel | 15-20 years, some 25+ |
| Conure | 15-30 years depending on species |
| African grey | 40-60 years |
| Amazon parrot | 40-60 years |
| Cockatoo | 40-60+ years |
| Macaw | 40-60+ years |
Ranges are for well-kept pet birds. Many pet birds die much younger than these ages because of poor diet, especially all-seed diets.
Parrot age in human years
Using each species' age of maturity and the middle of its normal lifespan (the method in the pet age calculator):
| Bird | Age | About this old in human years |
|---|---|---|
| Budgie | 2 years | 29 |
| Budgie | 6 years | 66 |
| Cockatiel | 5 years | 31 |
| Cockatiel | 15 years | 70 |
| African grey | 20 years | 38 |
| African grey | 40 years | 66 |
What shortens a parrot's life
- An all-seed diet: high in fat and low in vitamin A and calcium; leads to fatty liver and other disease. Most avian vets recommend a pelleted diet plus vegetables.
- Fumes: overheated nonstick (PTFE) pans, aerosol sprays, candles and smoke can kill birds quickly.
- Toxic foods: avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol and salty foods.
- Boredom and loneliness: parrots are intelligent and social; stress leads to feather plucking and illness.
- Accidents: open doors and windows, ceiling fans, other pets.
Before you get a large parrot
A macaw or cockatoo bought at 1 year old may live 50 years or more. Plan who would care for the bird if you no longer can; many parrots end up in rescues because of this.
Sources: Merck Veterinary Manual (pet birds); Association of Avian Veterinarians owner resources. Human-year figures are a simple comparison, not a medical age.
Try the pet age calculator
Enter your own numbers below, or open the full pet age calculator with the formula and more examples.
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Your pet may differ: ask your vet. Terms
Frequently asked questions
How long do budgies live?
Usually 5 to 10 years as pets, sometimes longer with a good diet and care.
How long do cockatiels live?
About 15 to 20 years, and some live past 25.
Which parrot lives the longest?
Large parrots such as macaws, cockatoos, Amazons and African greys often live 40 to 60 years or more.
Why do pet parrots die young?
The most common causes are an all-seed diet, household fumes such as overheated nonstick pans, and accidents.