Birds That Live Over 60 Years & The Secrets Behind Their Longevity

Birds are often admired for their colourful plumage, melodic calls, and graceful flight—but some are equally remarkable for their longevity. While many birds live for only a few years in the wild, there are exceptional species that defy the odds and can live for 60 years or more, especially when kept in well-cared-for environments. These long-living avian wonders exhibit not just resilience, but also social intelligence, memory, and emotional depth, making them fascinating companions and conservation subjects alike.

Macaws: The Colourful Centenarians Of The Bird World

Among the most iconic of long-lived birds are macaws, particularly the blue-and-gold macaw and the green-winged macaw. Native to Central and South America, these birds are known for their vivid colours, powerful beaks, and loud vocalisations. In captivity, macaws can live anywhere from 50 to 80 years, with several cases of individuals crossing the 60-year mark.

Their longevity is largely attributed to attentive care, a balanced diet, and strong social engagement. In the wild, their lifespan is shorter due to predation, deforestation, and poaching, but they can still live up to 35–40 years. In aviculture, they are often considered lifetime companions.

Cockatoos: Emotional And Enduring Companions

Cockatoos are another group of parrots known for their long lifespans and emotionally complex behaviour. The umbrella cockatoo and moluccan cockatoo are particularly notable, often living 60 years or more in captivity. One famous umbrella cockatoo, named Cookie, lived to the age of 83 at a zoo in the United States, setting a record for longevity.

These birds are highly intelligent, affectionate, and often form strong bonds with their human caregivers. However, their need for social interaction is intense, and neglect can lead to depression or behavioural problems. Their impressive lifespans make them ideal for dedicated bird enthusiasts who understand the responsibilities involved.

African Grey Parrots: Intelligent Birds With Incredible Memory

Regarded as one of the most intelligent birds on Earth, the African grey parrot is not only a master mimic but also a long-lived companion. On average, African greys live around 40–50 years, but with proper care, some individuals have crossed the 60-year threshold.

Their cognitive abilities have been studied extensively, with results showing advanced problem-solving skills, emotional awareness, and vocabulary development. African greys require mental stimulation, socialisation, and a nutritious diet to thrive for decades, which makes their care a serious commitment.

Albatrosses: Lifelong Fliers With Impressive Longevity

Not all long-lived birds are kept in captivity. The albatross, particularly the Laysan albatross, is known to live well into its sixties in the wild. One famous bird named Wisdom, a Laysan albatross banded in the 1950s, was still alive and breeding at over 70 years old, making it the oldest known wild bird in recorded history.

Albatrosses are extraordinary in many ways—they mate for life, travel thousands of kilometres across oceans, and return to the same nesting sites each year. Their remarkable lifespan is supported by a stable diet of marine food and minimal natural predators.

Amazon Parrots: Lively Talkers With Lifelong Bonds

Amazon parrots are medium to large-sized birds native to the Americas and known for their talking ability, playfulness, and sociability. Species like the yellow-naped amazon and blue-fronted amazon are especially long-lived, often reaching 60 years in captivity when given proper care.

These birds enjoy interaction, require a rich environment, and can develop strong emotional attachments. Due to their longevity and personality, Amazon parrots are frequently passed down through generations in families, becoming cherished members across decades.

Why Bird Longevity Matters In Conservation And Care

The long lives of these birds have implications that go far beyond curiosity. For conservationists, it means efforts must be sustained over decades, and rescued birds need lifelong sanctuary support. For pet owners, it requires serious thought, often a will or long-term care plan, as many of these birds may outlive their first caregivers.

Understanding and respecting avian longevity also helps promote ethical breeding, habitat preservation, and responsible ownership. These majestic creatures are not fleeting pets, but lifelong companions and ecological treasures.