We got the singer out in L.A. Thursday — where we chopped it up about this new macaw he and his wife Chrissy Teigen have recently welcomed under their roof … something they’ve documented on social media, introducing the feathered friend to everyone as Audrey.

The kids seem to love it, but there’s a bit of heartbreaking backstory as to how Audrey even came into their possession … and it involves John’s father-in-law, Ron.

As JL explains to us here, the Legend family is just pet-sitting at the moment as Ron battles some serious health issues — ones that John tells us candidly will likely lead to his passing in the not-too-distant future. Because of that, the fam’s prepared to take Audrey in.

As John puts it … Audrey will likely live longer than Ron big picture, so they’re getting used to having her in their company — just the latest pet that they’ve brought into the fold.

Speaking of animal companions … John talked about dog walking and dog poop — something he says he has no problem picking up, as he says he’s been doing it for years after living in NYC. As the owner of several pooches himself … he says he’s a vet at this now.

John also tells us that if you can handle raising a pet, you can probably do anything.