Birdie Info please

[crazybirdlady]

Good for you for doing your homework first.

Please don't ever leave your dogs unattended with your bird.

Introductions and/or complete separation are very important.

Cockatiels are small birds. Delicate birds. A playful dog that means no harm can kill a bird from sheer shock alone.

When I was breeding parrotlets, a baby of mine lasted less than a week in her new home, when the woman left the bird on the playstand in the same room as her dog, and went in another room. From what she tells me, she thinks the bird flew off of the playstand to look for her, and when it landed on the ground, the dog (most likely NOT out of aggression, but more likely out of playfulness) grabbed the bird in it's mouth.

She heard the bird scream from the other room and by the time she got back it was too late. No punctures or bite marks on the baby. She died from complete and total fear, at 8.5 weeks old.

And it's always a good idea for a new bird owner to start out small. Especially new bird owners that live in apartments. A cockatiel is an excellent first choice. My first bird was a tiel. Best idea I ever had And as much as I love rescues, and always try to promote rescue, sometimes it is best to get a bird from a reputable small time hobby breeder who really cares about their babies, and will make sure your bird is well socialized, healthy, and a good companion for you.

[PJ's Mom]

Does the bird have to be a baby to assure that it bonds to us as its family?


Sorry if that was a stupid question, but someone told me that.

[DrKym]

Does the bird have to be a baby to assure that it bonds to us as its family?


Sorry if that was a stupid question, but someone told me that.

It doesn't have to be, but just like a pup or kitten it will grow up knowing you and your habits.

I have tiels that were from other homes and act like they have been here from birth, just as comfy as my handfed babes that I raised. I have a couple that still after a few years with us, seem upset by our normal routines.

Same with the macaws. So no it doesn't have to be a baby to bond, but it will bond quicker is all!~

Btw, I am so thankful you are doing research first! I am certain whatever you decide the bird will be a very lucky avian indeed!

[Genny]

yeah, you're doing such an awesome job and researching about all kinds and stuff!

I still think a tiel would be great for you! Have you decided on a kind yet, or are you still thinking about it?? What ever you decide on I know you'll love it! All birds are so special in their own way! Please do let us know what kind you do get!
Genny

[BitsyNaceyDog]

I'd suggest a pair of cockatiels. Cockatiels are very social birds and they should bond with you just fine even if they have another cockatiel buddy. I'd suggest either two females or two males, but not a male and a female. I don't like to encourage egg laying by putting a male and female together (note that a female can lay a non-fertile egg). I much perfer two cockatiels because they easily get lonely when you are away. Some kinds of bird are better left one to a cage, but I personally feel that cockatiels should always have another cockatiel buddy.