Why do parrots live so long compared with many small birds?

Parrots are among the longest-lived birds, especially larger species such as macaws and cockatoos. Longevity is linked to several factors, including slower reproduction, strong social behavior, and a body plan that supports long-term survival. In captivity, where food and veterinary care are reliable, some parrots live far longer than in the wild, sometimes more than 50 years. Their intelligence and social complexity may also be connected to long development and long life. Long-lived birds often invest heavily in survival rather than early rapid breeding.