07/02/2025
Parrots with PTSD? It’s more common than you think
Trauma isn’t just a human experience. Parrots who’ve been neglected, abused, or passed from home to home often carry emotional scars that can last a lifetime.
PTSD in humans is marked by hypervigilance, avoidance, and strong reactions to triggers. We’ve seen parrots freeze in fear, scream at common objects, or lash out unexpectedly, all because of trauma. These birds aren’t “mean.” They’re survivors.
At Papayago, we take the time to understand each bird’s past as much as we can, build trust slowly, and offer trauma-informed care. We started the Fear Free journey a couple of years ago, and we incorporate those methods of reducing fear into our meet & greets and adoption homecomings. We continue working on incorporating it into the medical visits, crating, and grooming. Healing is possible with patience, safety, and love for some. Other birds will need the support of other birds in a sanctuary setting since they have lost trust in humans.