Birds are some of the most beautiful creatures on this earth. Although some people choose to keep these rarer species of birds as pets, they are a joy to see in the wild. With their bright plumage and agile mannerisms, they are stunning to watch.
Just like the most expensive dog breeds and most costly cats in the world, these magnificent feathered friends don’t come cheap. Let’s take a look at the most expensive birds out there and what makes the different species so special.
Top Extravagant Bird Species
Most of these expensive birds are sought-after for their unique characteristics and magnificent colors. If you are interested in owning one, just remember that they should only be bought from verified breeders.
Unfortunately there is an illegal trade in native North American birds in the US and Canada. That is why those birds are protected under the International Migratory Bird Act. Keeping wild birds as pets is illegal in the US.
Wherever you live, make sure to check the regulation in your country before obtaining a bird or other animal.
Besides the initial buying price, the maintenance cost of these exotic species is also quite high. Bird lovers should be aware that these expensive pets need specialized care, including specific types of food, habitat requirements, toys, and regular check-ups at the vet.
With that said, let’s dive in and see which unique feathered beauties rank among the most expensive birds in the world.
6. Flamingo
With their distinct pink color, long necks, stilt-like legs, and dancing behavior, it’s no wonder that people are enchanted by flamingos. The collective noun for a group of flamingos is a flamboyance or a pat.
However, keeping this tall bird as a pet is neither easy nor cheap. These are social birds that need to be kept in a group in a wide-open area. Their pink coloring comes from the food they eat, so birds in captivity need to be fed special pellets containing the right pigment.
Buying one of these majestic birds costs between $1,500 and $3,000, and you also need a special license to keep them.
5. Ayam Cemani Chicken
The Ayam Cemani chicken originates from Indonesia and has fascinated people for years. Everything about this fowl is black – from its feathers down to the eyes and tongue.
However, when they lay eggs these are cream colored rather than black eggs.
Even though they look dark and dangerous, these chickens are gentle and fairly easy to keep as pets. A full-grown hen will cost around $2,500.
4. Toucan
Toucans are well known for their large colorful beaks. They make excellent pets if you invest time in them. There are about 40 different toucan species that vary in size and coloring.
Toucans are native to Central America and Southern Mexico, where they live in the canopy rainforest.
These are high-energy birds who need a large enclosure with a variety of toys. They are quite affectionate pets and enjoy being scratched, but they can get a bit noisy.
The Toco toucan is the most popular species and can cost between $5,000 and $10,000.
3. Hyacinth Macaw
This rare macaw species has bright blue plumage with yellow skin around their eyes and beak. With their inquisitive faces and playful nature, it’s no surprise that people fall in love with these birds.
Measuring 1 metre from its head to its tail, the Hyacinth macaw is the largest flying parrot species. These colorful birds are found in Central and Eastern South America.
Hyacinth macaws make great pets for experienced bird owners. These beautiful birds need a large cage and fresh fruit, vegetables, and nuts every day. Prices to buy this expensive parrot start at $5,000 and can go up to well over $15,000.
2. Black Palm Cockatoo
Also known as the Goliath cockatoo, this valuable bird is the largest cockatoo species. Its smoky color, head crest and red cheek patches give them a distinctive look. The red patches can change color when the bird becomes excited.
Native to Cape York Peninsula in Australia, the Aru Islands in Indonesia and New Guinea, these rare birds are monogamous and mate for life.
The Black Palm cockatoo isn’t naturally affectionate but can be tamed. These birds are highly intelligent and can learn to do tricks. These cockatoos cost $16,000 on average, but can go up to $19,000.
1. Racing Pigeon
The most expensive bird may come as a surprise, since a pigeon is not really exotic or brightly colored. However, it is the fastest bird on this list and pigeon racing requires a bird specifically bred for the sport.
The average price for a racing pigeon can start around $1,000 but if you want a champion breed, you could pay more than $50,000. The most expensive racing pigeon was sold for $1.9 million in 2020.
The high price of racing pigeons is due to the prize money for breeding and races being equally high. For example, the Victoria Falls World Challenge Pigeon Race has a total prize pot of US $1.2 million prize money.
Here’s a recap of the most expensive birds in the world:
- Racing Pigeon
- Black Palm Cockatoo
- Hyacinth Macaw
- Toucan
- Ayam Cemani Chicken
- Flamingo
Final Thoughts on the Most Expensive Birds
There are a wide variety of captivating and colorful birds in the world. Although most of them are not as costly as the world’s most expensive horse breeds, owning an exotic bird can be very pricey.
However, if you are a bird lover, waking up to the bright call of your feathered friend every day may be well worth the expense.
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