I liked very much what Boysmom had to say about donating to a bird sanctuary or bird rescue. The bird community must be responsible for the birds that are already out there, unwanted, unhomed, etc., some very difficult cases. Not every bird is unsalvageable, and not every bird is in a shelter because of behavior problems (although I think most are), but because of some people's personal circumstances, financial reasons, renters not allowed pets, time constraints, etc., so many reasons. I'm not suggesting that everybody run out and adopt a problem bird, but I am asking that if you want a bird that you at least consider shelter birds, go and visit one and see what's there, could be a diamond. But also be aware of the commitment involved, and we all know that's a big commitment, especially for our larger parrot friends, but even parakeets, lovebirds and parrotlets can live 20 years or more. I wanted a blue parrotlet so badly, SO BADLY, but a local breeder was pretty snobby about it and they were SO expensive, so instead, I got a bird that was a green male, age unknown by the owner, a plucker, who looked pitiful. That boy is now fully feathered, chirpy and happy, has a great diet, and I am working on getting him to fly (he had plucked all his back, wing and tail feathers out). I'm not blaming the former owner, she had him a great cage, but would refuse pellets and fresh food (so many birds do), but now, he literally RACES to his food dish, chirping away, when I put in fresh foods, especially soaked and sprouted seed, Brussels sprouts (cut up finely) and broccoli and sweet potato. It takes a lot of time for some birds to be moved from an all seed diet to species appropriate diets, but in the end, with patience, how worth it. And how rewarding. I'm not at all against getting a baby bird, go for it, but if we are going to be responsible bird companions we need to consider the adults and older birds and we all know they are out there. I wanted to add that Parrot Confidential did emphasize the commitment required and longevity of parrots, and that is a very valuable lesson, especially for 1st time bird owners, and it could be that the best way to start with birds is not to go out and get that awesome Macaw, or that brilliant Eckie, but start with a parakeet - with time they can even talk! Plus I have seen plenty of parakeets and even lovebirds at shelters. I don't think many people realize how MESSY parrots can be lol. That's also a consideration. And, if you can't afford to feed the bird properly, and that goes for any pet, you really shouldn't have it, that the best thing for the bird is someone who can provide for it's needs.
.........for reasons not known to me with clarity, I've been told that the person had to go back to school.....!!!???
. Poor TAG was plucked (not much but still), in a very small cage, etc. I couldn't get any truthful info from the lady who was selling the bird. She was saying one thing on the phone, and another thing when I got there.....But one thing I will never forget.......poor TAG was holding my finger through the bars...like saying "please take me out of here".....oooooh how I hope she is in good hands now. The lady didn't want to lower the price, and she wanted too much, so I will feel guilty for the rest of my life that I didn't take poor birdy.
