Keeping Your Parrot Warm & Happy Through a UK Winter: 5 Expert Tips

 By Pure Feather Aviary | London’s Parrot Specialists

As the nights draw in and the British temperature drops, us humans naturally reach for the thermostat and the woolly jumpers. But for our feathered companions, who originate from the humid rainforests of Africa, South America, and Indonesia, a UK winter presents a specific set of challenges.

With over 9 years of experience hand-rearing exotic birds in London, we know that keeping a parrot healthy from November to March requires more than just cranking up the heat. In fact, central heating can sometimes cause more problems than the cold itself if not managed correctly.

Here are our 5 expert tips to ensure your parrot stays safe, warm, and mentally stimulated this winter.

1. Banishing the "Draft" (Not Just the Cold)

Many new owners assume that if the room thermometer reads 20°C, the bird is fine. However, the real killer in UK homes is the draft. A cage placed near a single-glazed window, a conservatory door, or a hallway can subject a bird to rapid temperature fluctuations.

This is particularly true for sensitive species. If you are considering an African Grey parrot for sale, you must be mindful that they are prone to plucking if they feel a constant chill on their skin.

  • The Fix: Move cages to an internal wall for the winter. Cover the cage at night with a thermal cover, but ensure there is still airflow.

2. Combatting "Central Heating Dryness"

When we turn on our radiators, the humidity in our homes plummets—often dropping below 30%. For a desert bird, this might be okay, but for tropical species, it can lead to dry, itchy skin, brittle feathers, and respiratory issues.

This is critical for specific breeds. The vibrant Eclectus parrot and the majestic Macaw both hail from regions with 70%+ humidity. Dry UK air is their enemy.

  • The Fix: Invest in a cool-mist humidifier for the bird room. Alternatively, you can take your bird into the bathroom while you shower (without them getting wet) to let them soak up the steam.

  • External Resource: Read more about Humidity requirements for exotic birds from The Parrot Society UK.

3. Lighting the Way (Beating the Winter Blues)

In the UK, it gets dark at 4:00 PM in winter. This lack of sunlight prevents birds from synthesizing Vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium absorption. It can also lead to lethargy and grumpiness—if you’ve ever seen a moody Conure in January, you’ll know what we mean!

  • The Fix: Use a specialized Avian UV Lamp. Unlike standard household bulbs, these mimic natural sunlight, helping your bird process calcium and keeping their feathers vibrant.

  • External Resource: Why UV Lighting is Essential (Arcadia Bird Education).

4. Winter Diet & Warm Comfort Foods

Birds burn more calories trying to maintain their body temperature in winter. While we don't want them to get overweight, bumping up their energy intake slightly can help.

High-energy birds, such as the Cockatoo, are constantly moving and require adequate fuel.

  • The Fix: Offer warm (not hot!) soft foods. A warm mash of sweet potato, quinoa, and soaked pulses is comforting and nutritious. You can also offer slightly more nuts (like walnuts or almonds) during the coldest weeks for healthy fats.

5. Beating "Cabin Fever" with Enrichment

In summer, you might take your bird to the garden in a harness or travel cage. In winter, they are stuck inside 24/7. Boredom is the leading cause of behavioral issues like screaming or feather destruction.

Whether you have a small parakeet or a large parrot, enrichment is key.

  • The Fix: Rotate toys weekly so they don't get bored of the same ones. Foraging toys, where the bird has to work to get a treat, are excellent for keeping their minds busy.

  • External Resource: Check out the RSPCA’s Guide to Parrot Enrichment.

Ready to Welcome a New Friend?

Winter is actually a wonderful time to bond with a new bird, as you spend more time indoors together building trust.

At Pure Feather Aviary, all our birds are hand-reared, vet-checked, and raised in a home environment to ensure they are confident and healthy. Whether you are looking for a cuddly Cockatoo or a clever African Grey, we are here to help you find the perfect match.

Browse our available birds:

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