I've been thinking about getting a bird. Advice.

[LoveMyFurBabies]

So my dh and I are considering getting a bird. Oh say in the next few years or so, nothing immediately. I finches when I was a kid and a few years ago I lost my parakeet. She was a wonderful sweet bird, but this time I think I'd like to go for something bigger. I'm really liking the idea of an African Gray. I understand that they live for a very long time, which would be GREAT. I don't know much about them adn I do not know anyone that has one. Could you put down some things I should consider before getting one. THanks!

[Dani33]

Be prepared for a long comitment - 60 yearsish. Imagine having a 3 year old for that long. Greys can also be neurotic - known feather pluckers. Very inteligent, some of the best and clearest talkers - although there is no garauntee. Some just don't. Expect to be cleaning - vaccuming, cleaning floors walls and cage - daily. Also be prepared to change water 3 x a day and also cook regularily and chop veggies and fruits daily.

Also be prepared to buy lots of toys that have the potentail of being destroyed and being replaced regularily. Also, you must interact by teaching, training etc. Lots - daily. My guy likes to learn tricks. I know his weakness though - cashews. I let my guy out of his cage at least 4-6hours a day and lots of one on one interaction. Also, they are generally not very cuddly past maturity. They can be as babies. Not adults. It's best to have a large cage - my new one is coming tomorrow - 41" x 31" x 58". He also has approx. 5-7 toys on his cage at any given time.

You must also find an avian certified veterinarian. Parrots require yearly checkups and it's good to have someone in case of an emergency.

If you do a google search, you will find lots more info. If you are prepared, they can be one of the greatest pets of all time. I love my George. I can see how they are definately for everybody. Tonnes of work. Not so for me, cause I really care for my bird. Anyhow, if you have more questions, just ask.

[wiccabrat]

I have to say that sounded a lil scarey to me. Just the way I read it probably but where's all the fun part? Any pet takes cleaning and feeding but you should always mention the up side to. lol We have 18 birds in 9 cages and it only takes an hour every morning to feed and water everyone (I make big batches of vegis and rice and Lorie nec ahead of time and freeze) this includes washing all the bowls and picking up the cages. Wiping them out only takes a lil while and changing all their bottoms is a snap. We use pine shavings litter in the bottoms so it just dumps right out. Food making takes awhile but I only do it once every two weeks or so and than freeze it for later use. As for taking them out everyday, that's the fun part not work. I know some people make it sound like walking a dog for 4 to 5 hours every day. It's not like that, they don't need your undivided attention the whole time. Ours are just happy sitting with us while we watch tv, we put their play gym on the bed and if they get bored they go play. If they want our attention for something they let us know. Our Nanday loves just being in the kitchen while I make their bowls, or just riding around on a shoulder while you do your normal stuff all day. Feeding the fish is one of his favorite things, he likes seeing them all. lol

[Dani33]

Agreed, I make it seem that way because I have seen alot of rescues. When one has a passion like you and I, it doesn't seem like work. If someone gets a large needy parrot, they don't alwys see what's all involved. To be quite honest, that is the way it is! I love caring for my babies. Taking on a parrot IS a big commitment.

I love George more than anything, I just try to help newbs see it for what it is. They are far harder to take care of than most animals - ie. Dogs, Cats etc. (in my experience anyway)!

I have 4, African Grey, a Quaker and 2 male Lovies. It's totally amazing that you can find the time to take care of all of yours. Honestly! Holy, some people can do it, but they certainly aren't for everyone!

[Dani33]

LOL, my African Grey and my Quaker love feeding our fish too. I'm trying to teach George(grey) to say fishie when we feed them. Olive(quaker) tries to eat them through the glass - lol!!!

[wiccabrat]

Turbo trys to eat the lil ones, it's funny watching him lick the tank.
I agree it is alot of work and not for everyone but I hate to think we just scared her to death. lol Just one wouldn't be to hard to keep up with for anyone who's willing to do the work. I think looking at them more like children and less like pets is a good way to go. If you can survive the terrible twos you can probably handle a parrot. lol

[LoveMyFurBabies]

That's ok, you all didn't scare me. I understand that you would like to point out hte potentially negative aspects. You said they weren't very cuddly as adults, could you tell me which birds are? I know my parakeet sure was. Also, I did know about the 60 year thing and that is waht attracted me them most, I hate having animals die. It's awful.

[Dani33]

No doubt. Having pets die is the worst! I have a Quaker and she is very cuddly. She is quite a bit smaller and doesn't live as long. She is an awesome pet and can talk quite a bit.

My African Grey will sit on my shoulder for scritches but not the same as my quaker. She would sit on my shoulder, snuggled in and would preen me all day if she could. The only other birds that I have had are lovebirds a budgie and a canary. So, I'm not sure about others.

Maybe someone else could make recommendation.

BTW, I love parrots, they are the best pets for the right person!

[Guyver]

if you are wanting a bird for friendliness rather than speaking ability, an umbrella may be the way to go. just be aware4 that these require constant attention and are skilled escape artists. my chloe will sit in my lap and watch tv with me all afternoon, longer if i would keep petting her. she is such a people bird that we just set her a place at the table for meals though. one other problem is if you have allergies or athsma.. dont get it... feather dust leaves a constant coat near her favorite places. we have taught her to use the garbage can though (bathroom) thats a really good trick to teach.