Exotic birds aren’t just about pretty feathers—they come with serious price tags. With high-flying competitors and rare tropical beauties, they can be worth up to millions of dollars because of their rarity, intelligence, and sheer beauty. Discover the priciest winged wonders and why they cost so much.
Racing Pigeon ($2.6 Million)
Think pigeons are just city birds? Think again. Competitive racing pigeons are elite athletes, with the best ones selling for millions. In 2020, a Belgian pigeon named New Kim fetched $1.9 million. Their ability to navigate long distances at incredible speeds makes them prized by collectors and race enthusiasts worldwide.
Kakapo Parrot ($50,000)
The Kakapo, native to New Zealand, is among the most expensive birds on Earth. With less than 200 left, these nocturnal, flightless parrots can fetch up to $50,000. The vibrant green feathers and quirky behavior make them highly sought after, though their endangered status has increased their value significantly.
Hyacinth Macaw ($40,000)
With electric blue feathers and a friendly personality, the Hyacinth Macaw is one of the most sought-after parrots. These birds cost anywhere from $7,000 to $40,000, partly because their numbers in the wild are shrinking. They also require plenty of space and attention, making them a high-maintenance luxury.
Spix’s Macaw ($40,000)
One of the rarest birds in the world, the Spix’s Macaw was so highly coveted in the 1980s that it was being sold for as much as $40,000 on the black market. Thought to be extinct in the wild, recent conservation efforts have revived its population. With only a handful left, experts estimate its value could reach hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Black Palm Cockatoo ($20,000)
A jet-black bird with a striking red cheek patch, the Black Palm Cockatoo is as rare as it is expensive. Prices range from $15,000 to $20,000, thanks to their limited numbers and complex care requirements. They even use sticks to drum on trees—a unique behavior that adds to their mystique.
Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo ($10,000)
This pink and white cockatoo is as delicate-looking as it is expensive, with prices ranging from $4,000 to $10,000. Native to Australia, Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo are highly social and need constant stimulation. Their striking appearance and engaging personality make them a prized possession among bird lovers.
Toucan ($10,000)
With their giant, colorful bills, toucans are some of the most visually striking birds around. Owning one will set you back $5,000 to $10,000. These birds are playful and social but need specialized diets and plenty of space. Their exotic look and personality make them highly desirable.
Ayam Cemani ($6,000)
The Ayam Cemani, originating from Indonesia, is entirely black—including its skin, feathers, and internal organs. Priced at $2,500 to $6,000, it’s considered a symbol of good luck. Though it’s easy to care for, its rarity makes it among the most expensive chicken in the world.
Green-Winged Macaw ($4,000)
With vibrant red, green, and blue feathers, the Green-Winged Macaw is a showstopper. These intelligent birds cost between $3,000 and $4,000. They love social interaction and can form strong bonds with their owners. Keeping one means providing enrichment and plenty of space for them to thrive.
African Grey Parrot ($4,000)
Famous for their intelligence and ability to mimic human speech, African Grey Parrots sell for $800 to $4,000. These birds need mental stimulation and social interaction to thrive. Owners love them for their problem-solving skills, but their high intelligence comes with demanding care requirements.
Scarlet Macaw ($4,000)
With their fiery red, yellow, and blue feathers, Scarlet Macaws are one of the most eye-catching birds on the planet. Priced between $2,000 and $4,000, these birds are social and intelligent, making them popular among collectors. Their diet and space requirements add to their overall cost.
Victoria Crowned Pigeon ($3,000)
Named after Queen Victoria, this pigeon is one of the largest and most beautiful. With an intricate, lacy crest and blue-grey plumage, it looks almost regal. At $2,000 to $3,000 per bird, its rarity and specialized care needs make it a treasured addition to private aviaries.
Flamingo ($3,000)
Famous for their pink feathers and graceful stance, flamingos can cost between $1,000 and $3,000. Their color comes from their diet, which includes algae and crustaceans. These birds thrive in large flocks, so owning one means committing to a group—making them a pricey but stunning investment.
Golden Pheasant ($3,000)
With shimmering gold, red, and blue feathers, the Golden Pheasant looks like something out of a painting. Priced between $1,500 and $3,000, these species are known for their striking plumage. They’re not the best pets due to their flighty nature, but their beauty makes them highly desirable.
Eclectus Parrot ($2,500)
Few birds are as visually stunning as the Eclectus Parrot. Males are bright green, while females are striking red and purple. With a price tag of $1,500 to $2,500, they’re not cheap. Their intelligence and friendly nature make them great companions—but they require a high-maintenance diet.
Lady Amherst’s Pheasant ($2,500)
The Lady Amherst’s Pheasant is admired for its striking plumage and long, dramatic tail. With a price tag ranging from $1,000 to $2,500, it’s a sought-after bird among collectors. Though not known for companionship like parrots, its bold coloration and regal appearance make it a standout in any aviary.
Bali Myna ($1,500)
The Bali Myna, a striking white bird with bright blue markings, is one of the rarest birds out there in the world. With conservation efforts underway, their price can exceed $1,500. Their beauty and endangered status make them highly protected, requiring special permits for ownership.
Northern Cardinal ($1,200)
The Northern Cardinal’s vivid red feathers make it stand out. While commonly seen in the wild, buying one legally can cost between $800 and $1,200. Their cheerful songs and striking looks make them popular, but in some areas, it’s illegal to own them—driving up their price in private collections.
Mountain Bluebird ($1,000)
Because of their sky-blue feathers and peaceful demeanor, the Mountain Bluebird is a favorite among bird watchers. These birds cost between $500 and $1,000. They prefer open fields and meadows, making them a stunning addition to spacious aviaries.
Gouldian Finch ($500)
Nicknamed the “rainbow finch,” this tiny Australian bird is a living work of art. With a price range of $100 to $500, it’s one of the more affordable exotic birds, but its care requirements still make it a specialty pet. Its multicolored feathers make it a favorite among collectors.
