How long does a Parrot (Macaw) live?

A parrot (macaw) lives 50 years on average (maximum recorded: 104 years). They reach maturity at 5 years.

Lifespan Overview

Average Lifespan

50 years

Maximum Recorded

104 years

Maturity Age

5 years

Human Year Ratio

1:1.5

Large parrots live 40-80+ years — often outliving their owners. A macaw purchased at age 20 may need to be included in your will. They reach maturity at 3-5 years.

Parrot (Macaw) Age → Human Age Converter

Parrot (Macaw) age: 25 years

≈ 38 human years

Developmental Stages

Chick 0 days – 6 months

Human equivalent: 0-5 years

Hatches blind and featherless. Fledges at 3-4 months.

Juvenile 6 months – 3 years

Human equivalent: 5-15 years

Learning to fly, forage, and socialize. Playful and curious.

Young Adult 3 years – 10 years

Human equivalent: 15-30 years

Sexually mature. Pair bonding. Full adult plumage.

Prime Adult 10 years – 40 years

Human equivalent: 30-60 years

Peak intelligence and vocabulary (for captive birds). Breeding years.

Senior 40 years – 80 years

Human equivalent: 60-90+ years

Still active and vocal. Arthritis possible. May outlive multiple owners.

Fun Fact

Cookie, a Major Mitchell's cockatoo at Brookfield Zoo, lived to 83. Charlie, a blue-and-gold macaw allegedly owned by Winston Churchill, is claimed to be 104+ (though this is disputed).

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a parrot (macaw) live?

Large parrots live 40-80+ years — often outliving their owners. A macaw purchased at age 20 may need to be included in your will. They reach maturity at 3-5 years.

What is 1 parrot (macaw) year in human years?

Approximately 1.5 human years, though this varies by life stage. Use the age converter above for a more accurate estimate.

What is the oldest parrot (macaw) ever recorded?

The maximum recorded lifespan is 104 years. Cookie, a Major Mitchell's cockatoo at Brookfield Zoo, lived to 83. Charlie, a blue-and-gold macaw allegedly owned by Winston Churchill, is claimed to be 104+ (though this is disputed).