Parrots can make great pets, but you have to be willing to put up with several things:
1) Screaming. Quakers are known noise makers. They may not be loud, but they make a racket constantly. Plus they're illegal in some states. However, they're one of the best talking parrots out there, learning as many as 30 some words. They're not very clear talkers, but they can do it.
2) Mess. Birds make a LOT of mess. It can be reduced by adding shields to the cage where you don't want food on things. You can buy a cheap umbrella and hang it under their play stand, then toss it when it's gross.
3) Behavior - Quakers are known for running up to someone and biting, then running away laughing. They've got attitude, but the breeder friend I know says they're worth it ^.^ . Quakers have a particular problem with territorial biting. This can be reduced by putting a hamster cage within their regular cage and not picking up the parrot while they're in either cage. This cuts down on bites and attacks. Quakers also love weaving straws in the hamster cage to make a nest.
4) Talking. Never use words that you don't want your bird saying in public! Quakers are like African Grey parrots - they're great talkers and they WILL say things that you don't want said. Mind you, this can be a good or bad thing, depending on your POV ;-) .
5) Attention. Parrots need as much attention as a dog, if not more. This isn't so bad if there's one or two birds, but it can be a problem when you have a dog and other pets AND a job on top of everything! It can be done, though, and if you have two untamed birds and don't expect them to be tame, simply sitting beside the computer and sharing some veggies with them will keep them happy ^.^ .
Adopting birds is a great idea. There's several awesome books on the market, such as 'The Second Hand parrot' and 'The Beak Book' that can help you and your new buddy adjust. I wish you luck! We need more folks adopting birds!
2006-06-25 19:59:49
·
answer #1
·
answered by white_ravens_white_crows 5
·
1⤊
0⤋
a Parrot is a good bird, there are many breeds . First Though you have to do some reasearch on the types of birds you want, some are loud and some are quiet. I have a Quaker, a Green Cheek Conure, and a Senigal. There all on the quiet side, but they can get lound and all three of them can talk. DO THE RESEARCH FIRST. If you know of any friends who have birds talk to them and see if you like any of there birds. Then go to a bird fair and look around, there you will be able to talk to breeders and get a better idea of what you want. You can also get food, toys etc... at the fairs at a really good price. A good source to look for bird fairs is get a copy of Bird Talk, you can find it in the magazine sections at your stores, or a book store or even you library might have it.
2006-06-25 15:30:33
·
answer #2
·
answered by Anonymous
·
0⤊
0⤋
If you are ready to make a lifetime commitment,a parrot is a good choice .Parrots are high maintenance pets;they need time,attention,toys,an excellent varied diet of seed,pellets,fruits,vegetables,cereals,vitamins,entertainment...a parrot is like a 3-4 year old child.One minute it is throwing a tantrum,the next minute it is figuring out how to unlock its cage door(and if you don't have a sturdy parrot-proof cage,it can succeed).They are physically very strong birds and will need lots of supervision when they are let out of their cages;they like exploring and chewing,so you need to keep them from chewing up carpets and furniture.They can also be very vocal at times(sunrise ans sunset are favorite screech and squawk times).
Before you adopt a parrot,read some parrot care books or go to Bird Talk Magazine's website,or just get a copy of the magazine.You need to get an understanding of the parrot mind as well as get an understanding of general care and training.
A well-cared for parrot can live 50+ years.My parrot is 25 years old and I've had her since infancy.She's a handful at times but she is a much-loved member of the family.My Indian-ring-necked Parakeet has a shorter life expectancy,30+ years,and is 18 years old.You may want to start out with a smaller bird,like a budgie or cockatiel;then you become smitten and adopt other birds.
2006-06-25 14:55:09
·
answer #3
·
answered by Anonymous
·
0⤊
0⤋
Go for it I say Great first Parrots are
1. Lovebirds-Contrary to popular belief they don ot need to be kept in pairs and can make affectionate pets.
2. Cockatiels-They are readily available, long lived, and can learn to talk.
What ever parrot you choose do your research first and any parrot needs 2 hours of undivided attention from you outside of the cage everyday.
Or why not a small Toucan.
Such as a Green Aracari or Emerald Toucanet.
Like I said what ever specie you choose do your research and know what you getting into.
I know alot about specie specifics on Parrots and Toucans you can E-mail me directly fo more info at vet2bjc@yahoo.com
2006-06-25 12:51:26
·
answer #4
·
answered by vet2bjc 1
·
0⤊
0⤋
Yes, they are like four year old children and need attention and toys and can get depressed if they are frightened or don't receive proper care. Having one teaches you alot about yourself and opens you up to caring for other people as well. Adopting is great because many birds are stolen and then wind up homeless and never had the chance to learn to survive in the wild. Adopt one enjoy the new family member. Good luck!:)
2006-06-25 12:41:00
·
answer #5
·
answered by Windrider 1
·
0⤊
0⤋
Parrots are great pets! They can get an attitude like people do, but you have to break the parrot of any bad habbits they have. They are great listeners and start talking after a few weeks (good if you live by yourself)
2006-06-25 12:33:00
·
answer #6
·
answered by ~*Mindasue*~ 1
·
0⤊
0⤋
Well, parrots are especially smart and if you train them correctly, they can talk, do tricks, etc. But they are very high maintenance, so if you don't have the time to train them and take care of them, then you could just get some small parakeets.
2006-06-25 14:49:07
·
answer #7
·
answered by julia 6
·
0⤊
0⤋
Yes, especially at Thanksgiving time. Roasted and stuffed. YUM YUM!
2006-06-25 12:31:22
·
answer #8
·
answered by Jenny A 6
·
0⤊
0⤋
hmm..well tehy do need alot of attention ..it'll b like adopting a child..but if your'e up to the task then go right ahead..
good luck
2006-06-25 12:32:26
·
answer #9
·
answered by §gorda§ 3
·
0⤊
0⤋
i used to have one and it was a pain at night Cuz it was biting on the cage
but if i were u i would get them and put it far away from Ur room
2006-06-25 12:47:14
·
answer #10
·
answered by mackenzie w 1
·
0⤊
0⤋