Fostering a parrot?

[Sootlet]

Hello! I have never owned a bird before but I am really fascinated by them and would love to own one sometime in the future. I have done lots of research and continue to do so.
Before I adopt one I'd really like some experience with a parrot but unfortunately all the rescues I can find are located too far from my house for me to volunteer at and no one I know owns a parrot I could interact with, fortunately both the rescues I have found give the opportunity for you to foster a bird after filling out a form and being approved and such. I have talked to my Dad about it and he said it would be a good idea but I haven't yet talk to my Mom so yeah.

Anyways, I was wondering if anyone here has any experience with foster a parrot. What is it like? Do the supply you with what the bird needs or do you purchase that yourself? Will post more questions if I have them because honestly my mind just blanked x)

 

[Brittany741]

It depends on the rescue. All my fosters, birds and dogs, I've always been financially responsible for food, treats, etc.

 

[SailBoat]

The Rescues that I have worked with have all foster out parrots when they had a large number of parrots come in from a Court and/or Law Enforcement action. In all cases, the Foster Homes are experienced with the specific species placed with them. It would be rare of a Rescue to foster a parrot into a home that has little to no experience.

As stated above, the Foster Home is responsible for 'everything' the parrot would need while with them!

You state that you live too far away from a Rescue group to be able to volunteer. Since you did not list where in this huge World you live, it is impossible to confirm that. It seems like every year, I become aware of yet another long standing Rescue group with in a four hour drive of me. And yes, I consider a four hour drive near me. At that point, I can drive in to the Rescue, volunteer for another four hours and drive home, and call that a day. I strongly recommend Volunteering! Is there a Zoo near by you?

From your Thread, I am guessing that you are living with your parents. If true and understanding that it is their home. Therefore, it is their choice as to whether you can have a pet. You should have an open and frank discussion with your parents (everyone at the same time). After all, parrots are a 'Long Term' commitment and there are many costs beyond the cost of the parrot itself: Cage, Food, Toys and Avian Vet care - up to twice a year. The costs are commonly several hundreds of dollars a year for a medium sized parrot.

Your interest and willingness to research is refreshing! And, based on that foundation, it is likely that you would make an excellent choice for a Parrot.

Now, what of the very many parrots are you interested in? By having an understand of, which parrots you find interesting will help members of this Forum to provide more detailed information. Please know, that some species of parrots are best approached by having them choose you! Example: I have a long love for Amazons and if I was to be looking for an Amazon, I would want that Amazon to choose me! The best World would be when both the Amazon and the Human make a connection.

As your reading has likely told you, parrots are complicated Beings and the more you know, the better!

So. What's Next?