Blue and gold macaw Marlie taken into care from Bunbury garage as RSPCA report surge in surrenders

WA’s leading animal welfare organisation is urging the public to think carefully before bringing home an exotic bird, with the number of birds coming into its care increasing by almost 50 per cent over the past year.

In 2025–26, RSPCA WA took in 116 birds, up from 78 the previous financial year, ranging from common aviary birds like budgies and finches, to more exotic and distinctive species such as an Eclectus parrot, long-billed corella and several cockatoos.

One of the rescued birds was Marlie, a six-month-old blue-and-gold macaw surrendered after inspectors found he was being kept permanently covered by blankets in a cold, dark garage near Bunbury.

He was confined to a dirty cage with little room to move, no enrichment and few opportunities to exercise or behave like a normal bird.

Despite inspectors providing advice and practical support to improve Marlie’s care, his situation didn’t change.

He was eventually surrendered to RSPCA WA, where he has since made a remarkable recovery.

RSPCA WA team leader inspector Genna Haines said Marlie’s story showed why birds should never be considered “easy” pets.

“People often think birds are low-maintenance because they’re kept in a cage, but nothing could be further from the truth,” she said.

“Parrots, for example, are incredibly intelligent animals.

“They need daily enrichment, exercise, social interaction and opportunities to forage, climb and explore. A cage should be their safe place, not their whole world. They need room to be able to exhibit their natural behaviours.”

Ms Haines said RSPCA WA regularly dealt with cases where owners cared deeply about their pets but simply didn’t understand their welfare needs.

“We’re currently working on another matter in which several birds have sadly died due to a lack of knowledge and understanding about their care and needs from their owner,” she said.

“These situations are heartbreaking because they’re often preventable.

“A little research before bringing an animal home can make all the difference.”

Macaws and many other parrots can live for decades and require specialist diets, enrichment, veterinary care and daily interaction.

“Before buying any exotic bird, ask yourself whether you have the knowledge and can meet those needs every day for the life of the animal,” Ms Haines said.

“Some species, including macaws, also require a Restricted Bird Licence in Western Australia, so it’s important to understand what’s involved before bringing one home. If you’re not sure, speak to an avian vet, a reputable rescue or an experienced bird keeper first.”

Marlie is doing so much better now and is well on the way to a full recovery — a reminder of just how resilient these birds can be when their needs are met.