CAG, Eclectus, or Amazon? Help :)

[Green]

Hi everyone! I'm going to be posting this in the different Species sections, just in case someone can "help" me who isn't going to visit every single one. I'm in the market to add a new feathered child to my home. I currently only have one other bird, a 7 & 1/2 month old Sun Conure, who is a riot. I'm going to be getting a larger bird. I have been researching the CAG and Eclectus extensively, The Amazon has recently gotten added to the mix after discussing some things with a amazon breeder and meeting some of the comical species, I have not done much research with that particular species yet, but I'm torn! I first off fell in love with the beautiful Eclectus. How can you not? They are some of the most gorgeous parrots I have ever seen. One of the doctors who used to work at the hospital had a beautiful male eclectus named Elvis who a character to say the least but he was a avid plucker :/ I'm also drawn to the African Grey, specifically the Congo, They are beautiful with their "coats of armor" and crimson tails. The intelligence on them is just astonishing! Last but not least is the Gorgeous Amazon, I would like to know anything anyone is willing to tell me or help me with. I think in the Amazon species I would prefer a blue fronted, yellow naped, or Double Yellow Headed. Anything is appreciated, just looking for some wonderful opinions!

 

[greycloud]

Hi and welcome to the forum! The first thing I want to say is about zons. The three species you mention are known as the "Hot Three". They tend to be the most talkative, biggest, loudest and males especially can be the most aggressive. I find amazons to be one of the easiest birds to read as far as body behavior. Sexual maturity in zons can definitely cause some behavior problems that need to be carefully monitored. They are avid chewers, very comical, many have the gift of gab, and zons are one of the species that are rarely known to pluck. They can also do a lot of damage with their beaks if you happen to be on the other end of it. They can be very dangerous if they do not accept another bird into their territory.
Eclectus are definitely gorgeous. They can be very loud, they have the softest little talking voices. They need a very specific diet or health problems occur. They are very prone to plucking. They tend to be a bit more independent. They love to chew and play with foraging toys. Females tend to be a bit more standoffish then males. They are known to accept other birds in their territory if there is a slow introduction.
Greys are wonderful birds! I have 3 CAGs. There are a high percentage of them that are pluckers. They have the wonderful ability to verbally communicate with us. Actually expressing their wants and needs. They are the masters of sound effects and this can become quite loud. Some are snuggle bugs, others hands off. They need a bit higher of a protein and calcium diet compared to others. I love both males and females. Mine tend to like softer chew toys compared to woods. They are extreme thinkers and can definitely put you to the test. Puzzle toys and foraging toys are favorites with greys. They tend to accept other birds in their territory if introduced slowly. They are my first love! Hope this helps.

 

[Green]

Thank you for this wonderful post greycloud. It is great to hear from friendly people like yourself. I think it's definetly neck and neck between a CAG and an eclectus. You have greatly helped me with them as I can't talk to many grey owners. I have to ask though are most of your birds , one person birds? Even with extensive socialization at a young age?

 

[mtdoramike]

Grey's can be more of a one person bird than Eclectus. Most of the Eclectus that I have been around which are only two hahahahaha like both male and females equally.
If you have a calm, scheduled, stable environment, a male Eclectus would be perfect. But if you can't meet these three things then I would recommend a female eclectus or a Grey.

Both Eclectus and African Greys are very sensative birds and are very acute to their surroundings. This can also be a hinderance with them because with the slightest change, could cause a mental problem such as plucking & Over preening.

 

[pawsfoot]

I agree with MtDoraMike about the calm environment for male eclectus'. They tend to be a tad more sensitive than the females. I have a very hectic house and my female barely issues a peep. They are not the most cuddly of the bird species, but my female eclectus will come out of her cage on her own time just to hang out on my lap. I have never owned a grey and only have limited experience with them, but I know they are very clownish and some tend to be cuddly. Are you interested in a baby or a rescue? Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Despite what you pick just be aware that these birds like to take their time to warm up to you, and they do it at their own pace. I'm sure whatever you choose you will be happy with your choice. I don't think you can go wrong with either species.

 

[Green]

I would be getting a baby. I think they are both so beautiful. There is a female si that wasn't born not too long ago and she is available still. No males yet, I did hear that the females were more resilient but I was leaning towards a male because I hear that once they become 2. They turn into different birds and are very hormonal, trying to nest everywhere. I also heard they have a tendency to get egg bound? I'm still keeping a open mind between the two though.