I need help picking out a bird!!!!

[DrakeV]

So I am going to get my first bird. I would like something with a little size, and has quite the personality. I live in a large home where noise is not an issue. I was thinking an Indian Ringneck, but i’ve heard mixed reviews.

 

[wrench13]

The best one is the parrot that picks you, whether from a breeder, pet shop or rescue. I'd rather have a budgie or conure that thinks I am the tits, rather then a Han's Macaw that merely tolerates me.

A lot depends on your budget, there are many mid-size parrots that make great companions, like Quaker Parrots that are not too dear, all the way to the mini-macaws and small Amazons, like my yellow shoulder amazon, Salty, which can get up there.

Ringnecks are a special species. THey dont usually like to be touched, and can take a long time to settle down and bond. They need to be interacted with almost daily or they can revert to an almost wild state. Some talk, some dont. As a first parrot, my opinion is no.

Just remember, every parrot is it's own bird so to speak, an individual who may or may not conform to established norms for that species.

 

[GaleriaGila]

As usual.., WHAT WRENCH SAID!!!

Some more more miscellaneous thoughts...


In your situation, I like the idea of a single bird, hand-reared and tame...

Cage size? Bigger is almost always better... bar-spacing is what's critical. Too small for the head to fit through, large enough to be climbable.

If you're away, you'll want to have a house-sitter, or maybe take the bird with you! Or take the bird to a sitter. In any event, you'll need to get the bird used to travel in a carrier.

Another must... a Certified Avian Veterinarian... before you get your bird... you'll need a "baseline" exam and regular follow-ups. Most vets aren't comfortabe with seeing bird.
Plus, in the event of an emergency, you don't want to be Googling for local bird vets.

Species differences? You've got me at a loss there. I do suspect that taming, training, etc. is more important than species of lovebird. Gender may be an issue, too, I don't know.

Lovebird folks? Thoughts?

Good for you, for all the thought you're putting into this. I admire that!

 

[Beepers]

So I am going to get my first bird. I would like something with a little size, and has quite the personality. I live in a large home where noise is not an issue. I was thinking an Indian Ringneck, but i’ve heard mixed reviews.

Welcome! It’s so exciting to get your first bird. No matter what’s recommended, do your research from several sources. YouTube has many. Pay attention to noises that the bird makes so you’re not surprised. Google screaming so you know before you buy. Birds are messy, food will be tossed outside the cage. Make sure you have a back up person to help if you’re sick, on vacation, or have a hectic schedule. Have a vet in mind before there’s an issue. The initial set up will be costly. Get the biggest cage you can afford, you won’t regret it. Once you get the toys/perches inside, it will be much smaller. Make sure bar spacing is appropriate for the breed. Purchase everything, and set it up before your bird comes home. Make sure you have breed appropriate food and snacks, as well as filtered water. Birds love fresh fruits and veggies. Research safe foods. Many lists on line. Males and females can have different traits as far as talking, affection etc so research that if it’s important to you.

Birds need 12 hours sleep, putting a cotton sheet over the cage is helpful to make sure they feel secure and get rest. Cage placement is important. No direct sun, excessively cold walls, or drafts.

A quick safety reminder: birds have delicate respiratory systems. They cannot handle candles, smoke, room fresheners/fragrances, aerosols, cleaners or non-stick cookware. Even if you can’t smell it, it’s toxic. It will kill them. Research ways to clean your cage. Vinegar and water is an option. Recipes online.

My suggestions might be smaller than you wanted, but still worth considering. Prices vary depending on where you get them from.

Green Cheek conure. This is a breed, not a color. They come in many colors. It’s a smaller parrot with a very big personality and a lot of confidence. Will want to spend time with you and your family, and will be interested in everything you do. Does well with an hour or more playtime outside the cage. Keep the cage where the family congregates, they’ll love it. They are nippy, but not mean. Sometimes it hurts, sometimes, but rarely, they’ll break the skin. You can avoid this by distracting them with a toy or by moving your hand out of the way. Usually quiet, but can be occasionally loud. Makes soft gentle sounds throughout the day like clucks and purrs. When frightened, they will scream uncontrollably. Not known as big talkers, but they can speak, and love when you repeat the words to them. Conures love to sit on heads, shoulders and feet. Many are foot obsessed and toe biters. They love to climb under blankets and inside shirts. They like to walk on the floor, climb sofas, and fly around the house. They enjoy tapping their beak in hopes of you doing it back. They spin on their perch, walk on the cage ceiling, and find life fascinating. Busy all day long.

Cockatiels. I have limited experience with this breed, but can offer some information. A smaller bird, but absolutely adorable and readily available. Comes in different colors. They have the cutest little voice and make a great first bird. They can talk, sing songs, and are very entertaining. So many videos online, check them out. They are dusty, so if you have allergies, this might not be the bird for you. They are prone to night frights, so a night light can help.

Quaker parrot: I am not well versed on this breed, but worth looking into. I think they’re more of a one person bird. Can talk and dance. Check out green bird brigade on YouTube. So cute!

Indian Ring Neck: I’m not well versed on this breed either, but I think sex makes a difference on talking. Boys have the ring around their neck. Check out Bridget Chant on YouTube.

Good luck! Let us know what you get. Would love to see a pic of your new family member.