The probability of a parrot returning after flying away is quite low, unless it has a strong bond with its owner and feels compelled to return, or if there's another parrot at home that it might return to seek out. It's generally better to keep parrots in pairs.

Reasons Why a Parrot Might Return After Flying Away

1. Attachment to the Owner

If a pet parrot flies away and returns after 40 days, it's not necessarily about 'homing instinct,' but rather, it stems from the fact that parrots are social creatures. They dislike being alone. If your parrot has a deep emotional connection with you, it might fly off for a brief period of freedom, but eventually, loneliness will draw it back to its owner. Furthermore, domesticated parrots lack the skills for survival in the wild, and they need their owner to thrive. The strong bond of a pet parrot plays a huge role in their return.

2. Attachment to Companions

If you keep two parrots, there's a chance that if one flies away, it might return. Parrots are intelligent and sensitive birds. They are not only able to mimic human speech but they are also capable of deep emotions. Parrots have a high degree of dependence on their companions. If they fly away alone and their companion remains caged, they will likely fly back, no matter how long they have been gone. They are used to living with others, and dislike being alone. Therefore, a parrot returning after 40 days is likely due to its desire to find its companion. This is another reason why it is a good idea to keep parrots in pairs.

How to Build a Strong Bond with Your Parrot

1. Feeding

Parrots are highly intelligent birds. You should feed them personally, and over time, they will develop trust and closeness with you. If you make a habit of feeding your parrot yourself every day, you will establish a deep bond in a very short amount of time. Consistent feeding helps strengthen their bond, increasing the likelihood they'll stay and return.

2. Interaction

Besides personally feeding them, you should interact with your parrot. Spend time near them, speak to them, or just spend more time in their company. This allows them to become more familiar with you. The more familiar they are with their human family, the less likely they are to leave and more likely to come back quickly if they happen to fly away. A consistent interaction routine, combined with feeding, helps strengthen the bond between a parrot and its owner.