I currently have a 10 yr. old blue/gold macaw that I rescued about 6 years ago from abusive environment. She was in poor shape and sick, I have brought her back to health. Still working with her on some issues she needs help with and she will always be loved by me. This is my second macaw, I miss my first one. Anyway looking to bring in a new family member for my girl as she needs a partner of her own kind besides me. Would love to have a male as maybe someday to raise my own babies....
Awesome that you rescued her.
I notice you didn't specify what type of Macaw you are looking for.
Have you called Varietees bird shop in Valley Park? I dk how often they have large birds, but I do know they have parrots there.
Whatever you do, make sure you get a fully weaned baby-- it is so important...some people perpetuate a myth that hand-feeding will improve your bond, but this is false. A fully weaned baby will generally be happier, healthier and more well-adjusted in the long-run.
When deciding on the sex of your future bird and a 2nd bird in general, here are some things to consider (in case you haven't):
It's not the best idea to get a bird for your bird (unless you personally want a 2nd bird for yourself). Getting a bird for a bird is like picking a friend (or girlfriend/boyfriend) for a teenage kid (doesn't always work).
If you get a 2nd bird, there is a chance they will not get along...and in that case, you may need 4 hours with one out of the cage and then another 4 hours with the other out (or something like that---separate interaction time). There could be some jealousy issues with the introduction of a new bird etc. If they do get along, that can make bonding with a human a more difficult process (due to their tendency to pick a single bird or person). It could also change the relationship with your current bird (in addition to potentially complicating the bonding process with the new one). That is just something to consider if you haven't already.
I am not a total Macaw expert- and I know you didn't ask for my advice, but I wanted to comment on your idea about a male and female- once sexually mature, if they get along, they may mate if out together at the same time etc (whether or not you are ready and whether or not you want them too)---You may also deal with some pretty raging hormones and behavioral issues that arise from housing 2 birds of the opposite sex.
This can get complicated though because raising babies is NOT a simple or cheap task (I used to think I could hand-raise a chick, I mean how hard could it be?---It's way harder than I thought).
There can be all sorts of stuff that goes wrong, where the human ends up having to intervene. Unless you have apprenticed under a breeder, I wouldn't try it. Plus, you would also need separate cages for all of the babies once they grew up or you would have in-breeding issues/genetic problems.
If they DO get along and you decide against breeding them, then you will still need separate interaction time (4 and 4 ), and they may not like that--so just keep all of these things in mind and read the links below before deciding on a male...Also- If the male's presence is a hormonal trigger for your current bird, she could end up laying eggs (even if they never mate) and that comes with its own health risks for the female, including egg-binding, prolapse etc.
Im not really to interested in breeding, Mainly Im looking for a second macaw for me. My first blue/gold macaw I had was such a great parrot, loving etc. and I miss him so. went thru a divorce and in the process I had to rehome him. Now this rescue I have is a work in making as she was neglected and mistreated. when I took her she was close to death and with the Lord's help (thank you Jesus) we brought her back to health and happiness. Anyway she will always be with me and like I said if I could find a young blue/gold macaw to raise would make me so happy...
I just wanted to make sure you thought it through because if you aren't interested in breeding, another female could give you a TOTALLY different outcome than a male. SO GLAD your baby is doing better! I know she's not really a baby, but you know what I mean. There are lots of places that you could try, but I would start with the shop I listed, and maybe look on FB for independent breeders w/ multiple good reviews. There are also a lot of places in Illinois-- lots of nearby rescues, but also parrot places a few hours away.
i contacted them and they know longer handle young macaws. So im still looking. I know of the st. charles wholesale birds but I refuse to purchase from them. No need for me to talk about other companies here. Anyway im in st. louis so if any one can direct me or help please contact me...
I think you have too few posts to read private messages, so you might have to keep checking this thread.
There ARE lots of rescues out there without behavioral issues...many very young
If you want to drive 4 hours, Chicago has quite a few options..I know Covid is not the best time to be travelling, but that's something to consider.
Birdman's parrots is a popular Chicago option. He has a baby Blue and Gold for $4000.00 but you should really make sure you know the sex, given your situation.
WindyCityParrots is another possibility (among others)
DEFINITELY quarantine any new bird for a minimum of 45 days, regardless of test results from a breeder and make sure you have an avian certified vet that can check out your bird further during that 45 days.
