How to decide where to adopt from...

[Remy]

I went to a rescue a few weeks ago, and met a couple of very nice birds there, either of which I could have taken home, although I was just looking that day. One was a Meyers, and the other was a senegal. Both were great.

I just looked at some local Craigslist ads however, and I keep seeing parrots that look like they aren't coming from a good living situation, (several alexandrines and ringnecks), some that are being sold very inexpensively. For instance, there is an African Ringneck on there right now for $50, and a blue IRN for $150, but I'm sure they aren't socialized (haven't contacted the sellers). There are also a couple of rough-looking mated pairs (one red belly pair, and one senegal pair) that are for sale, but are out of my current price range. =\

What do you guys think about getting a parrot (or a pair) that aren't well socialized? I think I could deal with it, but what are the chances of them becoming socialized with humans after a lot of TLC? I do want to take them out of bad situations, but I also want a companion.

 

[Remy]

For instance, this pair makes me really sad: red bally parrot

 

[Mare Miller]

That's a hard one Remy, for me anyways. I would want to help out some birds in need but you're going to have to be the one that lives with them. If they are bonded to each other, will they accept you? Yes, would be awesome, if not, will that be ok, too?

 

[Remy]

I don't know. I want a special buddy (or two, at most). For some reason, I can't seem to convince myself that I might not be able to eventually tame them. =P

 

[Mare Miller]

Then, follow your heart, you've got a strong one, for sure!

 

[Mudkips]

Pucks legacy lives on inside you.
Even when Puck was at his worst and was traumatizing your fingers with demon mode, you would still worry about him and spoil him. You were always there for him to fall back to when he was in need.
You've shown us on this forum is that you have more then enough TLC in you to socialize a neglected parrot - and it seems to be what you truly want to do.

I think you're giving yourself too many options. If I were you I would narrow it down to two of the most important things:
What kind of parrot look and personality would you prefer? And more importantly, how does the parrot react to you when you first meet?
You've already taken the time to visit a rescue, spend a bit more time visiting as many birds as you can in person. Who knows, maybe a bird that's known to be vicious may just 'click' with you!

Also, like me you seem to want a true companion bird. I wouldn't get a pair for that reason (can you imagine trying to hide a pair of parrots under your scarf at the shops? ) Also because its about 3 times harder to tame a pair of bonded angry birds!

 

[MonicaMc]

All but one of my current birds were second hand birds. I haven't adopted from a rescue, so they'll all come from other owners, given to me.

I have no problem going through a rescue, and at least with a rescue, they *should* be vetted (to ensure health) and temperament figured out. From an owner, that's not guaranteed, so it's at your own expense, not including the rehome/sell price (if there is one).


I've owned bourkes, budgies, a lovebird, a turquoisine, cockatiels, cherry headed conure and a mitred conure. Only birds I've ever bought were budgies, to give you an idea of how many out there are just given away. Granted, a few of the ones given to me, the people knew I was a good home and weren't bothered about me paying them. Others, it was just people knew I had birds, they didn't want their birds, and well, they ended up at my place!

Charlie and I formed an instant bond, but he was already tame. Noel (Cherry Head - RIP) took a while, but we came to an understanding. I wouldn't say tame, or at least nothing like Charlie, but we figured each other out. He preferred birds over humans but he also enjoyed spending time with me (or more specifically, a few seconds... unless I was transporting him somewhere! then it was ok for a bit longer!)

 

[Pedro]

Remy go with your heart. When you find the right parrot you will know.

Sometimes fate works in mysterious ways.

Good luck in your search.

 

[Conuregirl]

my nanday was a rescue and he was in a tough state. he was really aggressive and lunging at everyone. well, i saw a pic of him and i had a feeling he was for me.

It took a month to get him to learn step up, petting, and not lunging/no aggression. now he's my green cuddle bug. it took time but it was worth it. however, he still has issues with guys and that's what we are working on.

 

[Mayden]

In all honesty Remy, if you went for a pair I feel you may be left slightly disheartened with the taming/bonding attempts and just want to get a singular bird anyway on top of those two. So you'd end up with three rescues and a handful of feathers. I think it might just be too much stress for you to end up with all three (which I honestly honestly do see happening if you get a pair first!)

I'd suggest going to the rescue, unfortunately with places like craigslist etc you need to realise you can't save them all and by giving a single bird a fantastic home with you, you'll be making a world of difference to that baby.

I'd say go solo Remy. If you have what you want and the time and space after you've gotten your companion, then maybe take on a pair who still need a good home - there certainly still will be plenty around that need you when you're ready!

 

[Remy]

Thanks guys!

I can't make up my mind. I keep seeing all of these African and Indian Ringnecks on CL latey for very inexpensive, and I don't have any experience with them, but they sure are cute on YouTube!

My boyfriend is kind of inclined for me to hold out until I can afford another caique (he was told that they are "the BMW of birds" when we were bird shopping, and was convinced of that after I got Puck, lol). I'm torn. I loved having a caique, but I can't help but wonder if other birds would be just as compatible with me. I am concerned about noise (not an issue where I live now, but could be some day), and snuggliness (can probably be overcome with some time and TLC).

I got the info of another rescue to check out, so I will check them out. I am somewhat concerned about home visits though, because our house isn't in the greatest shape (perfectly safe though, just not super pretty at the moment).