I found what might be a good deal on a Maxamillion Pionus. My only concern is its age. Its 19yrs old. I don't want to get attached to him just to have him die on me in a year or so.

What to do, What to do.

Any thoughts on this would be appreciated as its probably the only type of bird the misses would let me get as we were originally looking into a pionus(dusky).

As long as he pionus is healthy I see nothing wrong with this, if the pionus has a whole bunch of health issues that's were you want to be concerned. Ask about the diet, look at the bird to see if they are under or over weight, ask the vet history, do a new bird check up.

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Fly on

Pi's exact age isn't known, as they have only been in captivity regularly for 20 years, however it is said they live 40 years. I say go for it, and don't let the circle of life steer you away. Even if it did die the next year (highly unlikely), the bird would pass knowing that you helped him in his time of need. Go for it

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I am a little bird

"I did not cost thousands to buy. I am not a rare species you can brag about owning. I am found everywhere. They call me a 'starter' bird. They call me a beginner's bird. I am all too often an impulse buy that can be dismissed when I am too much trouble. They do not understand me, and breed more of my kind, when so many are already looking for homes. They lock me away. Ignore me. Sell me. They don't see me, they don't know me.

I AM rare. The price tag that is placed on me and my size do not define me. I am the only one of me you'll ever meet. I do not think I am small. In my mind I am a large bird with a personality and intelligence to rival the magnificent macaw or the beautiful cockatoo. I am intelligent. I am affectionate. I too deserve a big cage, respect, love, medical treatment, and adoration.

I am irreplaceable. You will never find one like ME again. Do not define me by my size, commonness or price tag. Love me and I will show you that those macaws ain't got nothin on me!"

^ So much this

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Everything I've come across says that they can live between 25-40 years in captivity. But that's pio's as a whole.

Unfortunatly I waited to long and it went to someone else. :*(

I know this is an old post but I thought I'd reply for anyone interested in other peoples' experience with pionus. I got my blue headed pionus from a veterinarian breeder at 3 months old in 1990. He never had any health issues. He was two months shy of 28 years when he passed away suddenly a few weeks ago. I thought he'd live another 10 years so it came as a shock. I'm still in mourning but hope this helps anyone else googling pionus life spans. Just one pet owner's experience.

I'm so sorry for your loss. 28 years must have made for an amazing bond between the two of you, so I can imagine how difficult this time must be for you.

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Narbird. So sorry for your loss.

Very sad when this happens. They show no signs of ill health and then suddenly develop a illness and pass away. But I think 28 may be a good lifespan for a Pionus. Perhaps he could have lived for 2 more or 7 more years. Others will be able to help you.

But it is very sad and shocking when they pass away all of a sudden.