When featured bird Sam, an Eleonora Cockatoo, arrived at MAARS in 2002, he came with a reputation for being aggressive. As we got to know him, however, a different story began to emerge. Sam was blind. Without the ability to see the people and activity around him, the world could be an unpredictable place. What many had interpreted as aggression was often fear and uncertainty from a bird trying to navigate situations he couldn’t fully understand.
Blindness doesn't reduce a parrot's capacity for social interaction. Blind parrots benefit from tailored enrichment to stimulate senses and encourage exploration—tactile toys let them feel and manipulate objects with beak and feet. With patience and practice, these birds learn and respond as well as sighted parrots. Using non-visual cues—verbal prompts and touch—helps you build a strong bond and boost their confidence navigating their environment. Here, Sam plays in his toy bin.
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Fresh vegetables and fruits are an important part of a balanced parrot diet. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, and hydration that support overall health, feather quality, digestion, and immune function.

🥦 Broccoli – Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus calcium for strong bones and beaks.

🌱 Radish – Provides antioxidants and adds variety and crunch for enrichment.

🥒 Cucumber – High in water content, helping keep birds hydrated.

🥒 Zucchini – Contains fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support digestion and health.

🍠 Sweet Potato – Excellent source of vitamin A, important for healthy feathers, skin, eyesight, and immune function.

🫑 Bell Peppers – Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. Their bright colors also encourage natural curiosity and foraging.

🍎 Apples – Provide fiber and vitamin C. Always remove the seeds before serving.

🍐 Pears – Offer fiber, hydration, and vitamins while providing a naturally sweet treat.

🥬 Cauliflower – Contains vitamins C and K and supports digestive health.

A variety of fresh foods helps ensure parrots receive a wide range of nutrients while making mealtime more enriching and enjoyable. The more colorful the bowl, the greater the nutritional benefits!

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Has it been hot lately? Give parrots choices on hot days.
Many parrots handle warm climates, but even tropical species avoid all-day direct sun. In the wild they move between shade, canopy, water, and cooler microclimates—options captive birds need owners to provide. A cage in full sun removes those choices.
Signs of overheating include persistent open-mouth breathing, wings held away from the body, sitting low on the perch, lethargy, weakness, loss of balance, or difficulty perching. Severe cases can cause collapse, or unresponsiveness—medical emergencies needing immediate veterinary care.
Here at MAARS, even in air conditioning, Bizzy chooses to cool off a little more by hanging on the AC grate.
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