considering a pair of senegals (need advice)

[meandmybirds]

Hi, I was considering a pair of senegals off of craigslist, but they are a breeder pair. The lady said they aren't for pets, strictly breeding. They are 10 and 11 y/o. My question is this, If I get a senegal, should I get these and try to tame them and have them as pets or find another one much younger. I don't want to breed, just have a pet and be part of the family. Can you tame them at that age? she said you can't even touch them. I was also considering 2 other types of parrots, unfortunetly, there isn't really any breeders in my area of any birds. There are a few pet stores, but not really a selection. I do know, those are the types Im interested in. I thnk it would be awesome to have them, but not sure its worth the money if they won't come around. I really, really want a pet! any input will be appreciated!! thank you!

 

[Remy]

Since they are a bonded pair, they may not have interest in interacting. With some TLC, they might get friendlier, but I've always heard that they generally don't get friendly when coming out of those situations. You could try putting them in separate cages (close to each other), and trying to interact with each one individually, but that might also be very stressful for them.

I almost got a pair of IRNs from a similar situation, but they sold before I was able to get to them. I'm sure you could give these birds a better home than they have though.

 

[meandmybirds]

Thank you, I have been thinking about all night!!

 

[MonicaMc]

In short, if you want a pet, don't get a breeder(s). Yes, it is possible to tame a breeder(s), and it is possible to tame two birds who are together, but you may be looking at an extremely long road of gaining trust and teaching (or re-teaching) them that human interaction can be great!

I've worked with older birds who have had very little to no human interaction in years, and they have tamed up to different degrees. Since I have multiple birds, I don't feel as if it's a requirement for *all* to be tame as long as they are healthy and happy. If they seek out human interaction, that's great! If not, it doesn't bother me.


Have you tried Kijiji, Hoobly and Birdbreeders.com as well?

 

[meandmybirds]

thank you for responding, yes I did try those websites, most of the birds were too far away, not many around my area. but I did talk to the owner and asked her about hahn macaw, and she said they make perfect pets, she's been giving me advice about different types of birds for a year now. she will have some in the spring, so I will get one then. I'm really excited!!