>>> How sad. Isn't 31 young for a parrot to die?>> We had a macaw at Busch Gardens that was 87, and had several 40-60 year olds. There was one cockatoo that the San Diego zoo had that was just over 100 when it died. The smaller parrots-grays and amazons have lived 50-60 years but that is a high-end number. Until fairly recently (12-15 years ago), most parrots were often wild-caught adult imports (age unknown), subjected to a great deal of stress coming into the US and then not adapting well to being a household pet. Add to that, poorly understood dietary requirements, and nonexistent veterinary knowledge. Now, most birds are captive bred and anyone who makes a slight effort can get good info. on proper care, and there are many more vets who specialize in avian care. Parrots should be able to live to a ripe old age now!
Cherie
