There are many reasons why people decide to place an avian companion into an adoption program: Their lives change, they move, change jobs, get married, have children, become ill, or simply learn enough about themselves to realize that they are not a "bird person" or they are not able to give their bird the love, time, attention, patience, and quality of life it deserves.

Is a New Home Always the Best Solution?
Based on our experience, Parrots First recognizes that many people can be helped over the "rough spots" in their relationships with their avian companions by offering new information, insights, and resources for coping with the life changes that test these relationships. Unless the situation is extreme or unchangeable, a bird is usually better off continuing to live with its familiar family "flock." However, while it may be possible for Parrots First to offer advice in accommodating life changes, surrendering a bird for placement is often the only long-term solution. Although ending a relationship with a beloved companion—even a troubled one—can be very difficult, it is sometimes the best decision for everyone involved.

What Happens to the Birds Parrots First Takes In?
All Parrots First's birds are thoroughly evaluated and treated or rehabilitated whenever appropriate and for as long as is deemed necessary and in an individual bird's best interest.  Parrots First maintains detailed files on every bird, including past histories and a record of all tests and treatments, concerns, and health or behavioral issues.

Parrots First requires that all birds entering a Parrots First foster home obtain at minimum a CBC and Chlamydia PCR Test. All birds also undergo additional tests based upon species and history

When appropriate, rescued birds—including those with medical and/or behavioral conditions—are permanently placed in new adoptive homes. Parrots First insures that these homes are fully aware of the conditions and are thoroughly prepared to handle the bird's special needs. Under special physical or psychological circumstances, some rescued birds are placed in a sanctuary situation instead of a companion bird situation to live out their lives.

Companion Bird Sanctuary Placement Services
In some instances it is not appropriate—or desirable—to place a bird into a private home. In these cases, sanctuary placement insures a permanent, stable, life-long home. Parrots First currently collaborates with existing organizations to provide this type of setting, should it be determined that sanctuary is the best environment for the bird.

What Are Companion Bird Sanctuaries Like?
The population in a sanctuary setting is diverse. It may consist of retired breeders, birds with special medical or environmental needs, those with severe behavior problems, those who prefer other birds to people, or loving companions who have outlived or been displaced by the complex and changing lives of their humans. A sanctuary provides a unique place where these birds can live life on their own terms.

If you no longer feel you can properly care for your bird and are considering giving him/her up to Parrots First for placement, please contact us first to discuss possible solutions and review your options. If you decide to surrender your bird for placement in a new situation, please fill out an Acquisition Form in its entirety if at all possible.  The information you provide will help us to determine the needs of the bird and the most suitable environment for its future. You will be required to sign a legal copy of this form at the time of surrender.

To get an Acquisition Form please email adoptions@parrotsfirst.org with Acquisition Form in the subject line and we will email one back to you or leave us a message on our voice mail with your fax number and we'll fax one to you.  If you need to receive one via US Mail, please send us a stamped self-addressed envelope (first class) and we'll get one right out to you.

Adoption Committee: adoptions@parrotsfirst.org