Interested in Senegal Parrots wanted some advice

[Wabledoodle]

My fiancee and I are moving to a new apartment this fall and are interested in introducing a parrot to the family. We've been doing some research into the matter and really love the idea of an intelligent and interactive companion that we can play with, train, and hang out with. Senegal parrots seem to be the best combination of intelligence, size, and low noise (since we will have close neighbors).

However we have some concerns that we wanted to alleviate before we commit to getting a parrot. Our primary concern is the amount of time a parrot can go without companionship. For the duration of the fall, we will both be in classes and at any given time one of us will be around, or will be back within an hour or two. However, come January we will both be working full time. My fiancee will be working at a high school and will probably be home somewhere between 3 or 4 in the afternoon, and I will not be home until later that evening. We're not concerned about the parrot getting enough attention when we're home, because we plan on having the parrot hanging out with us out of his cage whenever we get home. However, we want to make sure that the bird will be okay spending the working day alone.

Does anyone else have a similar situation or any light to shed on the matter?

 

[parrotqueen]

I do not have a similar situation, but there is something you need to know.

Supplying the bird with lots of different and destructible toys is a must. The reason why I am specific about the type of toy is, dstructible toys keep most parrots busy longer. They love to rip anything they can get their little feet on into shreds. I would also suggest foraging toys, something you can hide food in for birdie to find. Parrots love foraging, and it is a natural behaviour for them in the wild.

A great website to go to for toys (and is owned by one of our fellow members!) :Rosie's Avian Outfitters, Select bird cages, bird food, parrot supplies, toys and more!


I hope this was helpful, and that you find your perfect bird. Happy hunting!

 

[Auggie's Dad]

As a current graduate student I work more than full time. Auggie stays home while I am at work. He's fine, and gets plenty of attention.

He has a VERY large cage, lots of toys, and sometimes I'll leave the TV or radio on for him.

 

[Riley's mom]

I have several birds, big and small, senegal included and a very hectic schedule between myself, my husband and our daughter. All of our birds have plenty of toys in their cages and I leave the TV on while we are gone. (I am thinking of changing that habit, due to the greys and what they are picking up) but all do just fine. Pickles, my senegal, is an absolute love. I recommend these guys for apartment living. They have great personalities. Good luck.