*Parrots are intelligent, social birds that thrive on interaction and routine. The Parrot Education Hub covers key topics like diet, mental stimulation, talking and training, and long term health - giving you the tools to create a fulfilling life for your feathered friend.
Pet birds generally require between 10 to 12 hours of darkness each night to maintain their health and well being, though sleep needs can vary slightly depending on species.
Parrots native to tropical or subtropical regions typically experience about 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness in their natural environment.
When pet owners keep their birds up past sunset, it is important to allow them to sleep later in the morning to ensure they receive adequate rest. Birds should not be disturbed during their sleep and waking them gradually by turning on the lights rather than sudden disturbance can help prevent stress.
If a bird is awake during non standard hours due to an owner’s schedule, brief interruptions to their sleep are acceptable, provided the total amount of darkness is sufficient.
To promote restful sleep, various environmental adjustments can be made such as using sleep cages in quiet, dark rooms or covering cages with blankets or specialized covers to block out disruptive light and noise.
For birds that remain active late into the evening, room darkening blinds or drapes can extend the dark period to meet sleep requirements.
Seasonal and species specific adjustments to light and dark cycles may also be necessary, with temperate region birds needing varying day lengths throughout the year, while tropical birds generally require consistent cycles.
Light exposure influences breeding behavior and adjusting daylight hours can encourage or suppress reproductive activity.
Additionally, exposure to natural sunlight or UV lighting is important, with birds benefiting from several hours of unobstructed daylight to support physiological health.
Chewy editorial team guides you in understanding a parrot’s natural day and night rhythms, so you can better support your bird’s well being.
