Adopting hand fed birds...is it safe?

[halogen]

I've been looking into a new fid. I'm planning on either adopting or getting a bird from someone who can't care for theirs. My friend recommended me to someone who has fostered birds and she said she has someone who has a clutch of baby conures. I was told this person is not a breeder and the egg laying was entirely unintentional. Because of this, I'm concerned that if this person allowed their birds to breed without taking precautions or preparations, then she may not know how to hand feed them or care for them properly either. I'm willing to give it a shot, but this will only be my second bird and I know I don't have the experience to deal with a baby bird who has been left untame or has splayed legs or health problems. As it is, my avian vet is VERY good, but I don't think that I would be able to take on a bird with poor health or otherwise. I don't know enough for that. Do you think I'm overreacting or should I leave them to someome else?

 

[MacawLoverOf3]

If babies are not fed properly from day one, that can and will have an affect on the developing organs. I know of 3 babies that were not fed properly and 2 died and the vet put in writing it was because of improper nourishment when babies. Those two did not neurological issues and could not perch properly. One died at the age of 18 months and the other was around that time.

The 3rd bird cannot walk properly on it's legs, it has to pull itself along sort of. The last I know of, the bird was very sweet but has a lot of issues.

You basically answered your own questions, and if it were me, I would be passing on this bird especially with you not having any experience in this area.

 

[getwozzy]

Hand feeding can be difficult and there are a lot of risks (aspiration, burning the crop, etc) involved if you're not experienced in that area. Plus, you have to make sure you do your feedings on time- and with babies that means 'round the clock!

Me, personally, would not try hand-feeding a baby bird on my own unless I had a lot of time watching and practicing with someone who knows how to do it. And if I were to buy a baby bird, I wouldn't buy one unless it's already weaned.

 

[MikeyTN]

You got some great advice from above. Being a hand rearer myself I would tell you it is a very tiresome work and if your not careful you can cause the baby's life. But it is a rewarding experience to go through yes but I would not advise it to most people. Good luck in your decision!