
Together we can elevate avian care!
Providing life-changing care and environment for special needs avian species in Minnesota.

Providing life-changing care and environment for special needs avian species in Minnesota.
Since the founding of MAARS in July 1999, almost 1500 unwanted parrots have come through our doors. More than 1400 birds have been successfully placed into permanent homes. We’ve consistently grown since then, all thanks to the helping hands of this amazing community!
Read MoreOur amazing team of regulars and part-time volunteers are committed to helping all captive parrots. We take our convictions and turn them into action. Think you would be a good fit? Get in touch for more information!
MAARS’ core function is to care for our flock at our facility, The Landing. Our primary mission is to educate the public, people who already live with parrots, and the veterinary community about the issues that face captive parrots.

Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Parrots are not domesticated and still possess wild traits. Parrots bite to communicate, as they are prey species that stay alert for predators. In captivity, they remain wary of new people, objects or situations leading to biting when other communication fails. If a person ignores warning signs—like leaning away, hissing, or opening their beak—the parrot may escalate to biting. It is one of the top reasons parrots are surrendered and behavior consults sought.
Biting can come from fear, overstimulation, hormones, or simply setting boundaries. Captive environments restrict movement and choice, limit flight, and often disrupt natural social learning. Biting must always be understood within the context of their wild biology and the limitations captivity imposes. Understanding their wild instincts and providing safe, private spaces with gradual introductions to new items can help. #MAARS maars.org
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Clean spaces aren’t just about appearance; they’re essential for parrot health. Parrots have highly sensitive respiratory systems. Dust, dried droppings, food debris, and mold can quickly impact air quality and increase the risk of respiratory illness. Bacteria and fungi thrive in warm, damp environments—making routine cleaning a critical part of daily care.
A clean environment supports:
• Respiratory health
• Feather and skin condition
• Reduced exposure to harmful bacteria and fungi
• Overall comfort and ability to regulate
Daily maintenance matters. Removing droppings, refreshing food and water dishes, and wiping down surfaces helps prevent buildup before it becomes a problem. Regular deep cleaning of perches, toys, and enclosures is just as important. Just as important as cleaning is how we clean.
Many common household cleaners release fumes or contain chemicals that are unsafe for birds—even in small amounts. Products with strong fragrances, bleach, ammonia, or aerosols can irritate or damage a parrot’s respiratory system.
Safer choices include:
• Bird-safe, non-toxic cleaners
• Diluted white vinegar for basic cleaning
• Hot water and mechanical scrubbing
• Unscented, residue-free products
Always ensure good ventilation, allow surfaces to fully dry, and avoid exposing birds directly to any cleaning process. Clean spaces support healthy birds, but they also support behavior. When a bird’s environment feels safe, predictable, and comfortable, they’re better able to rest, engage, and communicate. Care isn’t just what we provide, it’s the environment we maintain. #MAARS #Parrots #Sanctuary #Cockatoos #Nonprofit
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Did you know our parrots can paint? Looking for a unique gift, or you just love birds? Check out gifts and greeting cards (both holiday and blank) featuring paintings by the MAARS flock. We have both photos of and paintings created by the flock. All proceeds from purchases go directly to help support the MAARS birds - it's a win/win! See more options at maars.org or click here #MAARS www.maars.org/product/greeting-cards-paintings-04/ ... See MoreSee Less