Hawk Headed Parrot for Sale: Price, Personality and Care Guide

Few parrots stop people in their tracks like the hawk headed parrot. When excited or startled, it raises a fan of red and blue feathers around its head, which is why it is also called the red fan parrot. It is rare in the pet trade, so a hawk headed parrot for sale is something you need to research carefully before you commit. This guide covers what the bird is like to live with, what to expect on price and availability, and who it suits.

Hawk headed parrot quick facts

What is a hawk headed parrot?

The hawk headed parrot is a medium-sized parrot from the Amazon basin. Despite being smaller than most Amazon parrots, it has a presence far larger than its size. The signature feature is the nape fan: a ruff of maroon feathers edged in blue that flares out when the bird is excited, curious or upset. Because the fan is part of how the bird communicates, learning to read it is one of the first skills a new owner needs.

Hawk headed parrot personality

Owners and breeders describe these birds as playful, affectionate and full of personality, but also demanding. They are intelligent and highly trainable, and they bond closely with their people. They are also territorial and can be bossy or aggressive, especially during hormonal seasons and around other birds. That mix of charm and unpredictability is why most experts recommend them for experienced bird owners rather than first-time buyers.

If you are new to parrots, start with one of the species in our best parrots for beginners guide and move up later.

Hawk headed parrot price and availability

Hawk headed parrots are not common in the US pet trade, and when they do appear, they are usually priced well above common Amazon parrots, with females often costing more than males. Because they are uncommon, you may need to wait for a clutch rather than buy off the shelf. For context on how typical Amazon pricing works, see our Amazon parrot cost guide.

Treat any very cheap listing with suspicion. A genuine hawk headed parrot from a reputable breeder will come with hand-raising, DNA sexing and a written health guarantee. Our guide to choosing a reputable parrot breeder shows what to ask for.

How does it compare with other Amazon-type parrots?

Hawk headed parrots are often grouped with Amazons by buyers, but their body type and temperament are different. They are smaller, and many owners find them more energetic and mischievous. If you want a calmer mid-size parrot, read about the Pionus parrot. If you want the talking ability people associate with Amazons, compare options in Amazon parrot species compared and our best talking parrots ranked.

Care requirements

• Cage and space. Give a large, sturdy cage and plenty of daily out-of-cage time. These are active birds.
• Diet. A quality pellet base with fresh vegetables and limited seeds or nuts. Check our list of foods toxic to parrots.
• Enrichment. Rotate foraging toys and chewable items. See the best parrot toys by size.
• Bathing and molting. Regular misting supports feather health. Our parrot molting guide explains what is normal.
• Veterinary care. Annual exams with an avian vet, and learn the warning signs your parrot is sick.
• Behavior management. Hormonal periods can bring nipping. Read how to stop parrot biting before problems start.

Is a hawk headed parrot right for you?

It may suit you if you have bird experience, can offer several hours of interaction a day, and are comfortable with a strong-willed bird. It is probably not the right choice if you want a calm, hands-off pet, share your home with other birds, or are buying your first parrot.

Remember that a bird living 20 to 30 years or more is a long commitment. Compare it with other species in our parrot lifespan chart.

How to ask about availability

Because hawk headed parrots are rare, availability changes. Browse our More Parrots category or contact Mo directly to ask about current or upcoming birds. We ship nationwide, so see the shipping page for details.

Frequently asked questions

Are hawk headed parrots good pets?

They can be wonderful for experienced owners who enjoy a playful, intelligent bird, but they can be territorial and unpredictable, so they are not ideal for beginners.

How much does a hawk headed parrot cost?

They are rare and typically priced well above common Amazon parrots. Confirm the current price with a breeder, and be wary of listings that seem too cheap.

Can hawk headed parrots talk?

They can learn some words and sounds, but they are better known for their personality and whistles than for large vocabularies.

How long do hawk headed parrots live?

With good care, 20 to 30 years or more.

Why is it called a red fan parrot?

Because it raises the feathers on the back of its head into a fan when it is excited or alarmed.

Are hawk headed parrots loud?

They are moderate in volume but can be noisy when excited or during breeding season.