10 Most Rarest Pet Birds in The World

If you own a bird or want to own a bird have you wondered if there are any rare species in the world compared to the few we know? Well the short answer is yes, though owning a rare pet bird is an accomplishment of its own. It is also the idea of conserving them, as many of them are on the verge of extinction due to climate change, habitat loss, etc. But that doesn’t stop these birds from bringing us aesthetics to our home with their exotic beauty. This article explores the 10 most rarest pet birds in the world talking about their origins, characteristics, and conservation statuses.

1. Spix’s Macaw

Spix’s Macaw, Scientifically known as Cyanopsitta spixii, are native to Brazil, found near Rio Sao Francisco Valley. They were first discovered in 1638 by a German naturalist by the name of Georg Marcgrave. But was later found again by Johann Baptist von Spix in 1819, and therefore was named after him.

Spix’s Macaws are known for their striking blue-green feathers as it resembles a blue jewel, alongside their gentle demeanor. They tend to have white feathers near their eyes, the facial areas and have a black beak. They also have a very gentle demeanor 

Conservation Status

As of now they are critically endangered as Spix’s Macaw have been declared extinct in the wild by the year 2000 due to poaching, and habitat destruction. But recent breeding programs have seen some success in repopulating them. 

2. Kakapo

The Kakapo, Scientifically known as Strigops habroptila is flightless parrot that comes from New Zealand. They were first discovered in 1845 by an English ornithologist named George Robert Gray on an island in the South Pacific Ocean but were later found in 1974 on the Fiordland mountains. They mostly live around scrublands, tussocklands, forests and coastal areas. As these birds are excellent climbers as they leap from tree to trees.

Kakapo is a large moss-green colored parrot with an owl-like face. They are nocturnal and cannot fly; the bird has a unique breeding system called lekking, this is where males gather to compete to attract a female’s attention.

Conservation Status

Another Critically endangered species with less than 200 Kakapos remaining today. Many conservation efforts are happening such as predator control and habitat restoration. The Kakapo Recovery Program focused population growth through managed breeding.

3. Imperial Amazon

The Imperial Amazon or Sisserou Parrot, Scientifically known as Amazona imperialis, is a native parrot species in the Caribbean island of Dominica. They are primarily found in mountain rainforest at a high elevation. 

Imperial Amazon usually have green wings with slight red markings as well as a blueish-purple body and bright orange eyes. They are known for their intelligence and social nature which makes them a fantastic pet. Imperial Amazons are known to mimic human sounds.

Conservation Status

In 1993 there were only 80-100 individuals remaining due to habitat destruction and hurricanes which made them endangered. Conservation programs, which have helped these birds regain some of their population in recent years, are habitat protection, captive breeding, and educating local communities about the importance of preserving these birds.

4. Philippine Eagle

The Philippine Eagles, scientifically known as Pithecophaga jefferyi, are native to the Philippines. It was in 1896 when the eagle was discovered by an English naturalist named John whitehead. They can be found on four islands named Luzon, Samar, Leyte and Mindanao, mostly near forest areas. 

They were also known as the monkey-eating eagle as this bird has an impressive wingspan and fierce hunting skills. The Philippine Eagle has a dark face and has a mix of brown and white, with a distinctive crest of long, dark feathers. It also has a beautiful white crown with brown stripes. 

Conservation Status

The Philippine Eagles are critically endangered due to deforestation and hunting, the Philippine Eagle has become a national symbol as conservation centers are dedicated to their survival. As of recent years there were less than 700 breeding pairs, so with conservation programs hopefully this bird has more future generations to come.

5. Hyacinth Macaw

The Hyacinth Macaw or scientifically known as Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus is the largest of all parrots. It was in 1790 when John Latham first described them based on the taxidermied specimens that were sent to england. They mostly Originate from eastern and central areas of South america. Specifically Brazil, Bolivia and Paraguay. They can be located in lightly forested areas like palm swamps and flooded grassland.

Hyacinth Macaw mostly have cobalt-blue feathers and a yellow facial ring. Did you know that they are large enough to crack open coconut with their beaks? But they are mostly known for being gentle and playful, as these macaws are highly social and can bond closely with their owner.

Conservation Status

Despite being popular in the pet trade, this bird species is also  threatened by habitat loss and illegal capture and is considered vulnerable. Breeding programs aim to increase their numbers, by focusing on protecting their natural habitats in South America.

6. Lear’s Macaw

Lear’s Macaw is also scientifically known as Anodorhynchus leari are parrots that are native to Brazil. In 1954 an Ornithologist named Helmut Sick began searching for this type of macaw, only to discover a breeding population in Bahia around 1978. These birds inhabit arid regions and tend to nest in cliff faces. They are very social and mostly can be seen in flocks.

Lear’s Macaw is known for its dark blue colored body with a yellow marking on its face. They also have a darker tint at the end of their wings. Although very similar looking to Hyacinth Macaw they are quite small in comparison. 

Conservation Status

The Lear’s macaw is critically endangered and is protected under Brazilian law. Habitat destruction and trapping for the pet trade have led to its endangered status and so Conservationists are working to preserve its natural habitat and create safe breeding environments for population growth.

7. Black Palm Cockatoo

The Black Palm Cockatoo, Scientifically known as Probosciger aterrimus, are native to australia. These birds are generally in rainforest and woodland areas and can be seen nesting in hollow trees. They were first discovered in 1701 but later in 1788 they were scientifically described by a naturalist named Johann Friedrich Gmelin. 

This Cockatoo is known for its black plumage and red cheek patches. They have a backward curved crest with long feathers on its head. It is by far the coolest and scariest looking cockatoo in my opinion but they are quite peaceful and can even mimic human sound. It also uses sticks or its legs to drum on trees as a form of communication, a completely unique behavior to this species.

Conservation Status

In November 2021, the Queensland government listed the palm cockatoo as endangered under the Nature Conservation Act 1992. This is due to habitat loss, low reproductive rates, and climate change. 

8. Swift Parrot

Swift Parrot, scientifically known as Lathamus discolor is a small colorful parrot that is commonly found in south-eastern Austria. They can be found in suburban, woodland and dry forest areas. They were first discovered in 1788 by European Settlement, though they are pretty endangered due to habitat loss in recent years. 

Swift Parrots have a bright green body with tints of red and blue, and are known for its swift and agile flight. They are quite noisy too and can also be very charming to have. 

Conservation Status

Swift Parrots were mainly threatened by Predators which have caused significant declines in this bird’s population. So habitat restoration and predator control is the major concern to protect the remaining population.

9. Golden-Shouldered Parrot

Golden-Shouldered Parrot is native to Australia and scientifically known as Psephotellus chrysopterygius. They can usually be spotted in central and southern parts of Cape York Peninsula in Queensland mostly near tropical savanna woodlands and open grasslands. They were first discovered in 1858 by the English ornithologist John Gould from specimens collected by Joseph Elsey in northern Queensland while on an expedition led by Augustus Gregory.

Golden-Shouldered Parrot is known for its beautiful colors, with males having golden-yellow shoulders and a mix of green and blue feathers. Where females are less brightly colored compared to the male but equally beautiful.

Conservation Status

Habitat destruction due to agriculture poses the biggest threat as well as predators, wildfires, etc. Some conservation efforts to prevent extinction are to focus on habitat management, captive breeding, and educating farmers on sustainable practices to protect these birds’ environments.

10. Red-Vented Cockatoo

The Red-Vented Cockatoo also known as the Philippine Cockatoo, scientifically called Cacatua haematuropygia is a cockatoo species native the Philippines. They were first discovered in 1840 by an English naturalist named George Robert Gray and was fascinated by the bird’s color. 

This Cockatoo has white feathers alongside a remarkable red vent. These birds can be very loud and have a very social nature. They are primarily found on lowlands and coastal areas. They are also very intelligent compared to most parrots.

Conservation Status

As of 2024, the population is estimated to be around 1,100 birds, with only 450–700 mature adults which is a major concern. This species is endangered due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade. Including law enforcement to combat illegal trapping and community engagement is a major way to save this bird.

Mohammad Solaiman

About Author

I’m a bird lover & breeder living in New York. I always love to share the journey I have with my friends, family, and the people surrounding me. On this website, I only share my personal experiences related to birds and some informational content based on my research and the knowledge of some of my bird lover friends. While I’m not a veterinarian, none of these articles are intended to replace professional veterinary advice. If your bird has medical concerns, always seek professional assistance or take them to a vet.