Okay let me start this off, i just turned 17 and realize how immature i am for doing this. About almost 2 weeks ago i went to petco with my friend, keep in mind that i wasn't planning on buying an animal, just looking. We saw this pineapple green cheek conure alone in his display, my friend used to own a conure for almost 2 years, he was a pretty cool bird, but i've never been interested in owning a bird. He and another one of my friends pretty much peer pressured me into buying this bird, as soon as they were getting him out of his cage i instantly regretted it, i figured it was too late at that point to say i didn't want him. I honestly didn't think they would sell us the bird without an Id. $400 for a bird at my age is not a small purchase, and i realize how much work a conure is. He can be very stubborn, he bites me HARD and only steps up when he absolutely wants to. I feel like such an idiot, because i realize i really don't want this bird anymore, he's too much for me right now. I've been thinking about returning him to Petco, but i don't want to be a dickhead. I don't know what to do. Another thing that worries me very much is that this bird will get sick or die easily, because he came from petco. This was VERY impulse and i take full responsibility for letting other people make decisions for me. I know i don't have the best friends. I just need advice. Should i return him to Petco? Maybe sell him to someone? I feel like someone else will be able to take much better care of him. I'm an idiot
Please Help, i regret buying a conure
- Thread starter RedBoat
- Start date
- Aug 21, 2010
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RIP Gandalf and Big Bird, you are missed.
Greetings, thanks for baring your soul to a crowd of strangers! It takes immense courage to admit an impulse purchase, particularly involving an intelligent being.
Thankfully you have the maturity to seek the best outcome from a difficult situation. Would be a good idea to contact Petco as you consider all options. They may give complete or partial refund, perhaps store credit only. If you don't personally know of a good home, Craigslist or similar is least desirable as many folks simply "flip" animals for profit.
I'm wondering if you were on the fence before the biting and stubborn behavior? Parrots are an immense labor of love and require time and energy. If you have any desire to keep him, we can give advice to help reduce such issues.
Thankfully you have the maturity to seek the best outcome from a difficult situation. Would be a good idea to contact Petco as you consider all options. They may give complete or partial refund, perhaps store credit only. If you don't personally know of a good home, Craigslist or similar is least desirable as many folks simply "flip" animals for profit.
I'm wondering if you were on the fence before the biting and stubborn behavior? Parrots are an immense labor of love and require time and energy. If you have any desire to keep him, we can give advice to help reduce such issues.
- Thread Starter
- Thread starter
- #3
Thank you for replying. I could keep him, but im having anxiety about getting too attached to him because i've heard alot of stories of petco pets dying after a few weeks. If i really thought about buying a conure, and i really wanted one, i would have gotten one from someone who handles birds. I literally put zero thought into buying him. The only thing that really got me to buy him is my friend offered to buy him off me once he saves up enough money, but that'll be awhile. And like i said, he has a lot of experience with conures. I might just call up petco tomorrow and see what they say. Training these birds is a lot of work, i've tried training him for days at a time, it's hard, and recently he's been very stubborn and dosent want to do anything but sit on my shoulder and bite me. I just don't have the patience, and i'm at work a lot so i can't spend as much time with him
munami
New member
Hello.
Welcome to the forum. I'm sorry to hear that these circumstances have brought you here.
PetCo does take their animals back without questions but they might not return your money. If that's of concern to you, I would at the very minimum sell to a home that would take good care of them.
Welcome to the forum. I'm sorry to hear that these circumstances have brought you here.
PetCo does take their animals back without questions but they might not return your money. If that's of concern to you, I would at the very minimum sell to a home that would take good care of them.
Jen5200
Well-known member
Welcome - so sorry to hear that you are in this situation. Conures are pretty much like toddlers....lots of work, lots of attention and lots of time needed 
. I’m glad you realize that and are rethinking the purchase - it takes guts to admit that you may have made a mistake and returning him may be a good option. What part of the world are you in? There may also be members here that are interested in adopting this little guy.
. I’m glad you realize that and are rethinking the purchase - it takes guts to admit that you may have made a mistake and returning him may be a good option. What part of the world are you in? There may also be members here that are interested in adopting this little guy.plumsmum2005
New member
Hi hun, breathe! Thanks for telling us your story warts and all. You will need to be sure that you don't want him, it isnt just panic setting in? With work you will have the most amazing friend if you decide to keep. Think carefully hun and have this little one's interests at heart please?
Calm down. There will be a solution but don't rush into yet another decision that you may regret.
How about you give the bird to your friend that you say has experience with conures. Maybe he can pay you a little bit each month until he pays off the price? Like $40 a month?
If you are not ready for a bird, you are not ready. No need to force yourself to keep it. They are a lot of work. But don't rush into another decision that you may regret.
Instead of Craigslist, do you have like a neighborhood website where people have things they give or sell? It tends to be more safe, that's all.
How about you give the bird to your friend that you say has experience with conures. Maybe he can pay you a little bit each month until he pays off the price? Like $40 a month?
If you are not ready for a bird, you are not ready. No need to force yourself to keep it. They are a lot of work. But don't rush into another decision that you may regret.
Instead of Craigslist, do you have like a neighborhood website where people have things they give or sell? It tends to be more safe, that's all.
I agree with Remibird in that it may be best for you to approach your friend. Second choice is the pet shop. Either way you may not get all your money back but maybe just chalk that up to an expensive lesson learned ...
I bought a green cheek on impulse once, and he became the love of my life until I lost him due to illness last year, and I was (and still am!) completely devastated to have lost him. You are right in thinking they are a huge emotional investment and only you can know whether you are ready for that in your life. Please bear in mind how intelligent and emotional this little one is when you make your decision about his future.
I bought a green cheek on impulse once, and he became the love of my life until I lost him due to illness last year, and I was (and still am!) completely devastated to have lost him. You are right in thinking they are a huge emotional investment and only you can know whether you are ready for that in your life. Please bear in mind how intelligent and emotional this little one is when you make your decision about his future.
noodles123
Well-known member
- Jul 11, 2018
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- Umbrella Cockatoo- 15? years old..I think?
If you and your parents are still using standard cleaning products and Telon/PTFE/PFOA in your home, your bird will get sick and die there, regardless of where he came from. If they don't make these changes, you will be out your $400 dollars anyway---you live with your parents and this needed to be a whole- family discussion. Unless your parents know a lot about birds and understand the level of commitment/lifestyle changes needed to keep one, I would say Petco is a safer space- what happens when you move out and graduate? The bird is going to end up having to stay with them..and be let out daily by them...and bonding with them.
I also have to ask why your friend only had one for 2 years, as these birds should live MUCH longer. What about the fact that these birds live over 20 years and require SERIOUS changes to daily household routines (including cooking and cleaning)? My mom gets mad at the fact that she can't use certain cleaners/pots and pans etc when I visit with her with my bird---you moved your bird into their home and presumably without explaining all of the changes that they would need to take on (presumably because you had no idea). If you didn't already know this, if you keep the bird, your parents will have to revamp, replace and at least investigate the majority of their household appliances, as well as pots and pans due to the risk of teflon toxicosis to birds (see post below). They will also have to stop using things like bleach, windex, candles, fabreeze, air fresheners etc.
I am usually totally against returning birds, but in a home that isn't prepared for a bird, there are too many respiratory hazards (they are seriously sensitive and it doesn't take much). Then there is the fact that you and presumably all of your friends are one year from college (in which keeping a bird is nearly impossible unless you live at home).
You have impulsively purchased a bird with the intelligence of a toddler with very unique behavior, emotional and respiratory needs. The veterinary bills and cost of toys each year (+food) will also be quite high. They require a minimum of 1 annual exam each year (and they hide illness). Basically, if you can't see someone having a child with special needs, then having a bird is a poor choice. Keep that in mind when considering re-homing to friends your age.
If your parents are on-board and willing to make serious changes to their daily lives (no chemicals, no teflon, no scents) and promise to look after the bird/pay for its bills/ let it out daily/establish a bedtime routine ect, then maybe you can keep it. Heck, with you leaving for school, they may be happy to have a new baby in the house---but do not downplay the level of commitment that this will require on their part just to "sell" the idea...And remember, birds who are not properly socialized tend to become obsessed with one person.
I am glad you understand that it was a mistake, but don't just give the bird to your friend because he claims to know about birds..He couldn't keep his for more than 2 years, so what does that tell you? It tells me that it either A) died --likely due to respiratory issues or "mystery" illness, or B) They gave the bird away or sold it due to behavioral problems or a lack of time to care for it.
They are a ton of work and they can/do bite hard, but that is because you are rushing a process that will take months and years.
I am not trying to rub your nose in it, but please don't just give this bird to anybody who claims to have bird experience---especially if they are your age, and especially if they don't still have that other bird. Heck--don't give it to anyone who lives with their parents without explaining that this is going to require them to stop using certain products in their home, establish a bedtime, provide daily out-of-cage interaction etc etc FOR THE NEXT 20+ YEARS. I remember being your age well, and I could totally see myself doing something like that (I actually tried to secretly buy a plot of land and a hog in order to save it from the salughter-house) but that is a silly story for a different day.
That having been said, you won't be able to do this without a commitment from your entire family. Keep in mind, that the longer you keep the bird, the more it will bond to you and the worse the change will be.
I also have to ask why your friend only had one for 2 years, as these birds should live MUCH longer. What about the fact that these birds live over 20 years and require SERIOUS changes to daily household routines (including cooking and cleaning)? My mom gets mad at the fact that she can't use certain cleaners/pots and pans etc when I visit with her with my bird---you moved your bird into their home and presumably without explaining all of the changes that they would need to take on (presumably because you had no idea). If you didn't already know this, if you keep the bird, your parents will have to revamp, replace and at least investigate the majority of their household appliances, as well as pots and pans due to the risk of teflon toxicosis to birds (see post below). They will also have to stop using things like bleach, windex, candles, fabreeze, air fresheners etc.
I am usually totally against returning birds, but in a home that isn't prepared for a bird, there are too many respiratory hazards (they are seriously sensitive and it doesn't take much). Then there is the fact that you and presumably all of your friends are one year from college (in which keeping a bird is nearly impossible unless you live at home).
You have impulsively purchased a bird with the intelligence of a toddler with very unique behavior, emotional and respiratory needs. The veterinary bills and cost of toys each year (+food) will also be quite high. They require a minimum of 1 annual exam each year (and they hide illness). Basically, if you can't see someone having a child with special needs, then having a bird is a poor choice. Keep that in mind when considering re-homing to friends your age.
If your parents are on-board and willing to make serious changes to their daily lives (no chemicals, no teflon, no scents) and promise to look after the bird/pay for its bills/ let it out daily/establish a bedtime routine ect, then maybe you can keep it. Heck, with you leaving for school, they may be happy to have a new baby in the house---but do not downplay the level of commitment that this will require on their part just to "sell" the idea...And remember, birds who are not properly socialized tend to become obsessed with one person.
I am glad you understand that it was a mistake, but don't just give the bird to your friend because he claims to know about birds..He couldn't keep his for more than 2 years, so what does that tell you? It tells me that it either A) died --likely due to respiratory issues or "mystery" illness, or B) They gave the bird away or sold it due to behavioral problems or a lack of time to care for it.
They are a ton of work and they can/do bite hard, but that is because you are rushing a process that will take months and years.
I am not trying to rub your nose in it, but please don't just give this bird to anybody who claims to have bird experience---especially if they are your age, and especially if they don't still have that other bird. Heck--don't give it to anyone who lives with their parents without explaining that this is going to require them to stop using certain products in their home, establish a bedtime, provide daily out-of-cage interaction etc etc FOR THE NEXT 20+ YEARS. I remember being your age well, and I could totally see myself doing something like that (I actually tried to secretly buy a plot of land and a hog in order to save it from the salughter-house) but that is a silly story for a different day.
That having been said, you won't be able to do this without a commitment from your entire family. Keep in mind, that the longer you keep the bird, the more it will bond to you and the worse the change will be.
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noodles123
Well-known member
- Jul 11, 2018
- 8,145
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- Umbrella Cockatoo- 15? years old..I think?
Stuff on Teflon and other household chemicals:
When have a bird, any sort of heated mechanism (anything that heats or is heated) and contains PTFE/PFOA/PFCs/Teflon will be out of the question (and most things that heat up or are intended to be heated DO contain these chemicals)--This includes things like pots, pans, cupcake trays, cookie sheets, cake pans etc, but it will also things like include hair-dryers, straighteners, curling irons, curlers, rice-cookers, SLOW COOKERS, popcorn poppers, air fryers, microwave meals (including certain types of microwave popcorn), steamers, irons, ironing board covers, electric skillets, griddles, George Foreman Grills, drip trays, toasters, toaster ovens, poaching pans, electric blankets, humidifiers, heat lamps, SPACE HEATERS, etc etc...
To find out what contains PTFE/PFOA/PFCs/Teflon, you have to call and be a bull about it over the phone (and in some cases, you won't get far). Almost always, it will take a few days for them to get back to you and you must provide the full chemical names, abbreviations and brand-names. Shopping when you have a bird is super annoying..You cannot visually ID these chemical coatings, as they can be colored, transparent, or mixed into metal/fabric during the manufacturing process. Teflon and chemically similar products (PTFE/PFOA/PFCS) have killed birds on separate floors with the doors shut. Similarly, while DuPont claims that off-gassing only occurs at higher heats, there have been myriad bird deaths (even within academic circles) at temperatures well within the 300 degree F range! There is a reason they used canaries in coal-mines and it is because they die very easily due to even low levels of fumes of any sort.
Sleep=essential to hormonal and immune function. Different species have different requirements, but you have to figure out what these are and stick to them. This means that someone must be there to cover and uncover the bird at the same time each night and that your home must be conducive to sleep.
Make sure you aren't using any unsafe products around the bird. This is pretty much everything with a scent (and some things without).
No perfume, carpet cleaner, flea shampoo, aerosols, solvents, air fresheners, paints, smoke of any kind, vaping, sunscreen, bugspray, candles of any kind (organic or non), insecticides, certain soaps/shampoos, fire-places, burning or heated oil/fat, self-cleaning ovens, gas and any household cleaners (e.g., bleach, windex, lysol, fabreeze, scrubbing bubbles, kaboom, pine-sol etc)...You will seriously have to re-think your entire home and your cleaning routine will change a ton.
NEVER use the self-cleaning oven function or try to season cast iron around birds.
The list goes on. Birds have VERY sensitive respiratory systems. Essential oils are also fairly unsafe due to their ability to be absorbed into the blood-stream and due to a bird's sensitive air sacs.
When have a bird, any sort of heated mechanism (anything that heats or is heated) and contains PTFE/PFOA/PFCs/Teflon will be out of the question (and most things that heat up or are intended to be heated DO contain these chemicals)--This includes things like pots, pans, cupcake trays, cookie sheets, cake pans etc, but it will also things like include hair-dryers, straighteners, curling irons, curlers, rice-cookers, SLOW COOKERS, popcorn poppers, air fryers, microwave meals (including certain types of microwave popcorn), steamers, irons, ironing board covers, electric skillets, griddles, George Foreman Grills, drip trays, toasters, toaster ovens, poaching pans, electric blankets, humidifiers, heat lamps, SPACE HEATERS, etc etc...
To find out what contains PTFE/PFOA/PFCs/Teflon, you have to call and be a bull about it over the phone (and in some cases, you won't get far). Almost always, it will take a few days for them to get back to you and you must provide the full chemical names, abbreviations and brand-names. Shopping when you have a bird is super annoying..You cannot visually ID these chemical coatings, as they can be colored, transparent, or mixed into metal/fabric during the manufacturing process. Teflon and chemically similar products (PTFE/PFOA/PFCS) have killed birds on separate floors with the doors shut. Similarly, while DuPont claims that off-gassing only occurs at higher heats, there have been myriad bird deaths (even within academic circles) at temperatures well within the 300 degree F range! There is a reason they used canaries in coal-mines and it is because they die very easily due to even low levels of fumes of any sort.
Sleep=essential to hormonal and immune function. Different species have different requirements, but you have to figure out what these are and stick to them. This means that someone must be there to cover and uncover the bird at the same time each night and that your home must be conducive to sleep.
Make sure you aren't using any unsafe products around the bird. This is pretty much everything with a scent (and some things without).
No perfume, carpet cleaner, flea shampoo, aerosols, solvents, air fresheners, paints, smoke of any kind, vaping, sunscreen, bugspray, candles of any kind (organic or non), insecticides, certain soaps/shampoos, fire-places, burning or heated oil/fat, self-cleaning ovens, gas and any household cleaners (e.g., bleach, windex, lysol, fabreeze, scrubbing bubbles, kaboom, pine-sol etc)...You will seriously have to re-think your entire home and your cleaning routine will change a ton.
NEVER use the self-cleaning oven function or try to season cast iron around birds.
The list goes on. Birds have VERY sensitive respiratory systems. Essential oils are also fairly unsafe due to their ability to be absorbed into the blood-stream and due to a bird's sensitive air sacs.
fiddlejen
Well-known member
- Mar 28, 2019
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- Sunny the Sun Conure (sept '18, gotcha 3/'19). Mr Jefferson Budgie & Mrs Calliope Budgie (albino) (nov'18 & jan'19). Summer 2021 Baby Budgies: Riker (Green); Patchouli, Keye, & Tiny (blue greywings).
Hi, my Sun Conure came from Petco. She came with balance issues, but is otherwise healthy. She is happy and loving. In my case, she was not exactly an impulse buy - I had been Looking at (including handling) various birds for a while, but had decided to stick with my budgies only. But then I saw MY Sunny in a Petco & Fell In Love. (One difference - I waited a week. I couldn't stop thinking about her; prayed about it; went back several times to try to convince myself to forget her; etc. But she was still there and I just fell more in love.. so now she's Mine!)
Anyways, after I got her, I met an owner of a several other Conures from the Petco. They were great birds in great health.
This is just to say - IF you made a mistake, IF you don't feel this is the bird for you, then I also agree with every other bit of advice given to you so far.
BUT -- your one comment indicates one reason as anxiety over where you purchased your bird. So this is why I wanted to chime in. I would never advocate Planning to find your bird from Petco, but I'm just suggesting, try to evaluate now AS IF it came from elsewhere. Any bird could live a long healthy life, any bird could die early from a thousand souces.
Also when I bought home my Sunny I had a great amount of Anxiety and felt certain I had made a terrible mistake. So the Anxiety itself is also normal. IF IF IF you Love this bird then you really might want to consider whether you can make it work. (I know, you said you don't. But, then you almost imply one reason you don't love it, is because of the source. That's the only reason I'm chiming in! Now that you have the bird, please try to evaluate your Feelings about him As If you were happy about the souce.) For me, I work all day. And right now I still have PT appts & etc. FOR ME - well, my two two non-tame budgies are company for My Sun Conure. I leave Classical music on the radio when I leave for the day.
Again, I just wanted to state that I got my Petco bird because I love her. And I would never want to give her up if I could avoid it! I never planned to shop there for a Conure but that's where SHE was.
Petco isn't the place to start, BUT, once you have the bird then Petco does NOT=Bad Bird.
But again, assuming you have made a mistake, and purchased the Wrong bird or just at the Wrong time, then please follow all the other advice on this thread, as soon as you're able to.
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ParrotGenie
Member
- Jan 10, 2019
- 946
- 23
- Parrots
- 2 umbrella Cockatoos One male named Cooper and female named Baby 1 Little Corella male named Frankie and have 5 Cockatiels three named Male named Pepper, Fiesco for the female and female named Wylie.
You made the impulse buy already, but at the same time you stated you were interested in the bird due to how friendly your friends conure was? I would not panic and let anxiety give in and sit back and give it time. The bird at first is going to bite and be scared in general of you at first. You have to remember he moved into a whole another environment and doesn't know you. Go slow and don't force him out and to like you. Let him stay in his cage for two days without you bother him, so he gets use to his environment, then next day open up the cage door and don't do anything else and see if he come out on his own. It may take longer, but let him adapt to the environment and your routine. Don't stare at him, or push him out by any means. Then slowly once he out move slowly towards him but if you see him getting scared back off and repeat with breaks over the next few days, till he allow you to go close to him. If he not clip will be easy to train. If he isn't clipped, I would suggest you get him clipped, as it be easy for you to handle him and for him to more rely on you. The bird will likely step up when on the floor, or in different area as they hate being there. So he will learn to trust you quicker. It will take a while for him to trust and start to bond with you. But don't rush and just claim down. You soon realize he can be friendly as your friend conure is. You sure ask your friend for advise as well since he already has one and his is tame.
As far as cleaning routine and stuff you need to know that dangerous to birds others member will soon chime in and link to to some threads. Read them and learn and maybe you do fine with the bird and soon see him as a good decision, instead of a bad one. You came to the right place for advise. If you still don't feel a bird is right for you, or lack the time, members here will likely help you re-home him, or even be interested in the bird if your in the area. Just avoid Craigslist and Facebook as you have pet flippers that only care about money they can make and will lie claiming to be a good home to get bird cheap, or for free to make a profit with very little, to no care for the animal they are flipping.
As far as cleaning routine and stuff you need to know that dangerous to birds others member will soon chime in and link to to some threads. Read them and learn and maybe you do fine with the bird and soon see him as a good decision, instead of a bad one. You came to the right place for advise. If you still don't feel a bird is right for you, or lack the time, members here will likely help you re-home him, or even be interested in the bird if your in the area. Just avoid Craigslist and Facebook as you have pet flippers that only care about money they can make and will lie claiming to be a good home to get bird cheap, or for free to make a profit with very little, to no care for the animal they are flipping.
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ParrotGenie
Member
- Jan 10, 2019
- 946
- 23
- Parrots
- 2 umbrella Cockatoos One male named Cooper and female named Baby 1 Little Corella male named Frankie and have 5 Cockatiels three named Male named Pepper, Fiesco for the female and female named Wylie.
The fact he sitting on your shoulder he not scared of you then. Now the biting can stop. First you have to train him shoulder is a privilege and he not allow up their for now, if he running up your arm, put your arm up, so he higher then you and not likely to come down your arm to go up your shoulder. Now if he can fly, I would suggest you get him clip as you harder to train a bird when they can fly as they are more independent. Not to say you can't train a bird that can fly as done so many times, but does take more skills and a little longer. Now when he bites you have to not panic and scream, he get that reaction and will just keep on biting even worst. You have to when he bites put him down, on floor, chair, or couch, or training stand "Don't put him in his cage as it his safe place and will reinforce the biting if anything" and walk a few inches away and ignore him, he learn in time that a bad unwanted behavior and won't be accepted. It took my female umbrella cockatoo 3 days to learn not to bite me using this method. Mainly don't give in to what he wants when he bites, as he learn that all he has to do is bite to get what he wants. Parrots are smart.
Plus mostly everyone works and routines change all the time, find some time and learn to adjust. I had my first bird when I was around 14 years old and when older had collage and a job to go to and made it work. Don't put road blocks in place right off the back and make excuses. It will makes you a better and more valuable person long term if you learn and learn to adapt to situations. You have to learn from the mistake, don't let it consume you and over think it, but overcome it. In time you may realize that bird may have been your best decision once you get over come the hump, then maybe not, but you have to put effort and at very at least try and not give up, so easy.
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CallumConure
New member
- Apr 10, 2019
- 132
- 7
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- Callum- GCC Hatchday: October 15th, 2016
(nonparrot friends include rats, a dog, and a few reptiles :))
It was very mature of you to recognize your mistake and do your best to rectify it. It was very mature of you to come to a parrot forum and ask what you should do and by giving us all the details, unsavory or not. Don't feel bad, others have made this mistake, impulse bought, or not researched before. Some of us can attest to birds being dropped on us and then having to be a quick study on the species of bird and prove the best home and care for the bird. Some of us also do have years of research and full intentions to get one specific bird. See, all of these situations are okay, so long as you are ready to care for this bird and be able to financially support it. Am I saying impulse buy every animal you kind want? No. Just know that people make these mistakes too and then can support the bird afterwards.
As others have suggested-- sit down and really think. What is best for the bird AND you? Are you making a hasty decision by wanting to rehome him? Do you really want to rehome him or do you feel like you're at the end of your stick and panicking? I suffer from generalized anxiety, so I totally understand feeling the anxiety and feeling the panic set in. I have a hard time stopping it or thinking clearly,
As for your friend, I would like to find out why he had a conure for only two years. Did he have an elderly rescue who passed away? Did the bird become sick and pass on? Did the bird get rehomed for behavioral issues and whatnot? I would not trust him with a bird, especially if he is the one who pressured you into getting a $400+ animal and all of its needed items (cage, toys, food, etc.), knowing full well that you have little to no experience with the species, aside from how you and his bird had interacted. Of course, there is responsibility on your part for the peer pressure, but you've taken responsibility and we'll move on from that.
Also, I've seen the issue of what are you going to do with the bird and college. I have a lovely GCC named Callum. My little love bug who would cuddle and kiss me all day if he could. Gets jealous when I pet the dog or kiss one of my other pets and not him (more of just angry/jealous head bobbing from the top of his cage). I attend college, but I made some huge adjustments, just for him. I attend a community college, so there are no dorms on campus and that means my bird and I didn't have to move, much less be separated. I am not in school eight hours a day, more like two or three. The drive is barely fifteen minutes. Then, when I come home, Callum gets free roam of my room and home until it's bed time.
This free roaming has really lowered any behavioral issues he had and also minimizes screaming. Except... when he's looking out the window and doesn't know how to get back to me, so he calls for me to "save" him. Then cuddles up to me for "saving" him.
Of course, when I started the journey with my birds (I used to have a pair of budgies, now just one sadly), I was scared of how college and its homework would take up my time. Now, I do homework with Callum on my shoulder. I just have to be careful that he doesn't chew up my paper. I don't think the "my bird chewed up my homework" excuse would fly with my professors! Ha, do you like the double pun?
Anyways, if you decide to keep the bird, please heed everyone's advice. If you decide to rehome the bird, please also take everyone's advice. I would advise against Craigslist. There are unsavory people out there and, for whatever reason, they are drawn to that site. Look into local bird rescues (if you don't know any, search for pet birds on Petfinder and look at the rescues that are offering birds up for adoption), or bird sanctuaries.
I mean, if you lived in or near Minnesota, USA, I'd take the little GCC in a heartbeat.
As others have suggested-- sit down and really think. What is best for the bird AND you? Are you making a hasty decision by wanting to rehome him? Do you really want to rehome him or do you feel like you're at the end of your stick and panicking? I suffer from generalized anxiety, so I totally understand feeling the anxiety and feeling the panic set in. I have a hard time stopping it or thinking clearly,
As for your friend, I would like to find out why he had a conure for only two years. Did he have an elderly rescue who passed away? Did the bird become sick and pass on? Did the bird get rehomed for behavioral issues and whatnot? I would not trust him with a bird, especially if he is the one who pressured you into getting a $400+ animal and all of its needed items (cage, toys, food, etc.), knowing full well that you have little to no experience with the species, aside from how you and his bird had interacted. Of course, there is responsibility on your part for the peer pressure, but you've taken responsibility and we'll move on from that.
Also, I've seen the issue of what are you going to do with the bird and college. I have a lovely GCC named Callum. My little love bug who would cuddle and kiss me all day if he could. Gets jealous when I pet the dog or kiss one of my other pets and not him (more of just angry/jealous head bobbing from the top of his cage). I attend college, but I made some huge adjustments, just for him. I attend a community college, so there are no dorms on campus and that means my bird and I didn't have to move, much less be separated. I am not in school eight hours a day, more like two or three. The drive is barely fifteen minutes. Then, when I come home, Callum gets free roam of my room and home until it's bed time.
This free roaming has really lowered any behavioral issues he had and also minimizes screaming. Except... when he's looking out the window and doesn't know how to get back to me, so he calls for me to "save" him. Then cuddles up to me for "saving" him.
Of course, when I started the journey with my birds (I used to have a pair of budgies, now just one sadly), I was scared of how college and its homework would take up my time. Now, I do homework with Callum on my shoulder. I just have to be careful that he doesn't chew up my paper. I don't think the "my bird chewed up my homework" excuse would fly with my professors! Ha, do you like the double pun?
Anyways, if you decide to keep the bird, please heed everyone's advice. If you decide to rehome the bird, please also take everyone's advice. I would advise against Craigslist. There are unsavory people out there and, for whatever reason, they are drawn to that site. Look into local bird rescues (if you don't know any, search for pet birds on Petfinder and look at the rescues that are offering birds up for adoption), or bird sanctuaries.
I mean, if you lived in or near Minnesota, USA, I'd take the little GCC in a heartbeat.
- Thread Starter
- Thread starter
- #15
My mom dosent have any teflon pans, i haven't used any febreeze or cleaning supplies in my room since i got him (Which i kind of hate because i usually use febreeze quite often). and when i use cologne i do it away from him in the bathroom. My mom uses incense and some febreeze in the living room which is quite far away from my room, i don't know if that would affect him or not. It just scares me having this much responsibility, and having to watch everything i do. So you're telling me returning him to petco would be better than giving him to my friend? His bird died when he wasn't home, he has no idea how he died. This is the reason why i don't really want a bird. I can't imagine if i finally build a bond up with this bird and he mysteriously dies like its nothing. Another thing, i have a shower in my room. Is it safe to even shower in here if im using body wash/shampoo? I also do vape, i looked it up and it said it was harmless to birds... maybe not? Also my friends can be very stupid and do things like smoke weed in my room. Honestly i'm definitely not ready to own this bird. I'm gonna see what petco says i guess
noodles123
Well-known member
- Jul 11, 2018
- 8,145
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- Umbrella Cockatoo- 15? years old..I think?
I am glad you are taking it seriously.
If you are considering your friend as an option, you need to have a serious talk with his parents and figure out how much they know about birds...and whether they even want one( don't just ask him---he will tell you whatever you want to hear because he misses his bird). AGAIN, it doesn't matter what he says, as this bird will become THEIR responsibility when he goes to college, stays out late, doesn't wake up in time to uncover the bird due to a hangover etc etc.
They may not be willing to take care of a (potentially) screaming, biting bird with respiratory sensitivities. The bird needs to be a family member--- they are flock animals. Tucking them into some back room will not suffice long-term.
If your friend's parents have no intentions of making adjustments to their lifestyle (eliminating Teflon, smoking, chemicals, candles etc from their entire home) and training/caring for a bird for upwards of 20+ years, then the bird would be better off going to a home where he is wanted for the rest of his long life--this chance may be higher at Petco. In terms of interactions, we are talking a few hours out of cage time every day....lots of toys...potential vet bills (on top of the annual visit) etc etc. It is important to look at this honestly.
You need to make sure that they aren't the types of people who think a bird can just be left in its cage like a hamster--it is a big job. In many respects, birds take more work than dogs (as their behavior is less intuitive to most people and as their sensitivities require major lifestyle changes). Like a dog, they are a whole-family pet and they really need to be integrated into the daily household routine. Unlike a dog, they may only ever like 1 or 2 people in a household (despite the fact that they appreciate being around the others). If your friend's parents are not fully committed, then his intentions mean little (just because he is probably 17-18 now too, and without his parents' full support, there is no way to make it work).
A lot of times when birds die suddenly, it was due to something chemical in the home, or due to an illness that went untreated (they hide illness so by the time symptoms show up, the situation is quiet serious---this is not the same with mammals/dogs/cats/etc). Chemicals and birds= very serious combination.
VAPING IS NOT HARMLESS AROUND A BIRD. IT IS SUPER DANGEROUS FOR THEM. When you vape, you are inhaling numerous synthetic chemicals (flavor) + nicotine. Nicotine alone can kill a bird in chemical form ...it is a stimulant and they get more of it than you do as a result of their efficient respiratory system and due to their size in proportion to the amount...Then, you add the synthetic flavor/chemicals...=not good.
What source said that it was safe?!?!
No smoking of any kind around birds-- weed, cigarettes,hookah, vaping, cloves, cigars, crack (lol)---but seriously---no smoking around birds. Even burning food or candles around them is harmful.
Your mom really will need to avoid using those products that you mentioned. Switch to natural cleaning products and no incense or fabreeze (vinegar+water is one of the safest, as is grapefruit seed extract + water, or baking soda for scrubbing---not all "natural" cleaners from the store are safe, so you really have to look into this)... Birds are so much more sensitive than mammals. If Teflon can kill a bird on a separate floor with doors shut, it is likely that other chemicals circulate our homes in the same way. Essential oils aren't even safe for them in many cases...I know it sounds crazy, but it is absolutely true and that is why the whole "canary in the coal-mine" thing worked for miners back in the day.
You shouldn't keep your bird in your room- it needs to be in the room of the house where there is the most activity throughout the day and you need to make sure your parents are seriously okay with changing the things they use in the house.
If you had to shower in your room (and for some reason your bird was still in there--remember-birds shouldn't live in bedrooms), it would depend on the types of soap you were using.
Tea-tree oil is very harmful for them when inhaled...and it is in a lot of shampoos.
If you have crazy Axe body wash etc, that could be harmful, but a quick shampoo and scrub with a low-scent soap shouldn't be too bad---it just depends on the type of soap etc and the level of ventilation.
If you must wear cologne, I would keep it super minimal and give yourself a lot of time to air-out before coming around the bird. When I wear perfume (which is rare these days), I spray it on in my car before heading to work--by the time I come home, it has faded significantly. I do not use it in my bird's air-space (same with hairspray etc).
If you are considering your friend as an option, you need to have a serious talk with his parents and figure out how much they know about birds...and whether they even want one( don't just ask him---he will tell you whatever you want to hear because he misses his bird). AGAIN, it doesn't matter what he says, as this bird will become THEIR responsibility when he goes to college, stays out late, doesn't wake up in time to uncover the bird due to a hangover etc etc.
They may not be willing to take care of a (potentially) screaming, biting bird with respiratory sensitivities. The bird needs to be a family member--- they are flock animals. Tucking them into some back room will not suffice long-term.
If your friend's parents have no intentions of making adjustments to their lifestyle (eliminating Teflon, smoking, chemicals, candles etc from their entire home) and training/caring for a bird for upwards of 20+ years, then the bird would be better off going to a home where he is wanted for the rest of his long life--this chance may be higher at Petco. In terms of interactions, we are talking a few hours out of cage time every day....lots of toys...potential vet bills (on top of the annual visit) etc etc. It is important to look at this honestly.
You need to make sure that they aren't the types of people who think a bird can just be left in its cage like a hamster--it is a big job. In many respects, birds take more work than dogs (as their behavior is less intuitive to most people and as their sensitivities require major lifestyle changes). Like a dog, they are a whole-family pet and they really need to be integrated into the daily household routine. Unlike a dog, they may only ever like 1 or 2 people in a household (despite the fact that they appreciate being around the others). If your friend's parents are not fully committed, then his intentions mean little (just because he is probably 17-18 now too, and without his parents' full support, there is no way to make it work).
A lot of times when birds die suddenly, it was due to something chemical in the home, or due to an illness that went untreated (they hide illness so by the time symptoms show up, the situation is quiet serious---this is not the same with mammals/dogs/cats/etc). Chemicals and birds= very serious combination.
VAPING IS NOT HARMLESS AROUND A BIRD. IT IS SUPER DANGEROUS FOR THEM. When you vape, you are inhaling numerous synthetic chemicals (flavor) + nicotine. Nicotine alone can kill a bird in chemical form ...it is a stimulant and they get more of it than you do as a result of their efficient respiratory system and due to their size in proportion to the amount...Then, you add the synthetic flavor/chemicals...=not good.
What source said that it was safe?!?!
No smoking of any kind around birds-- weed, cigarettes,hookah, vaping, cloves, cigars, crack (lol)---but seriously---no smoking around birds. Even burning food or candles around them is harmful.
Your mom really will need to avoid using those products that you mentioned. Switch to natural cleaning products and no incense or fabreeze (vinegar+water is one of the safest, as is grapefruit seed extract + water, or baking soda for scrubbing---not all "natural" cleaners from the store are safe, so you really have to look into this)... Birds are so much more sensitive than mammals. If Teflon can kill a bird on a separate floor with doors shut, it is likely that other chemicals circulate our homes in the same way. Essential oils aren't even safe for them in many cases...I know it sounds crazy, but it is absolutely true and that is why the whole "canary in the coal-mine" thing worked for miners back in the day.
You shouldn't keep your bird in your room- it needs to be in the room of the house where there is the most activity throughout the day and you need to make sure your parents are seriously okay with changing the things they use in the house.
If you had to shower in your room (and for some reason your bird was still in there--remember-birds shouldn't live in bedrooms), it would depend on the types of soap you were using.
Tea-tree oil is very harmful for them when inhaled...and it is in a lot of shampoos.
If you have crazy Axe body wash etc, that could be harmful, but a quick shampoo and scrub with a low-scent soap shouldn't be too bad---it just depends on the type of soap etc and the level of ventilation.
If you must wear cologne, I would keep it super minimal and give yourself a lot of time to air-out before coming around the bird. When I wear perfume (which is rare these days), I spray it on in my car before heading to work--by the time I come home, it has faded significantly. I do not use it in my bird's air-space (same with hairspray etc).
Last edited:
Flboy
Well-known member
- Dec 28, 2014
- 12,601
- 4,106
- Parrots
- JoJo, 'Special' GCC, Bongo, Cinnamon GCC(wife's)
Please, back to Petco!
ParrotGenie
Member
- Jan 10, 2019
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- 2 umbrella Cockatoos One male named Cooper and female named Baby 1 Little Corella male named Frankie and have 5 Cockatiels three named Male named Pepper, Fiesco for the female and female named Wylie.
You best bet is to re-home, or see if Petco will take back bird. If you live close to IN, I take the bird and give you some money for the bird. Even when I don't need another bird, I know someone that will take in a Conure in a heartbeat that will give the bird a good home. Don't give bird to your friend as his clearly died for a reason and likely due to a bad reason.
At very least I give you the fact your being honest, but is likely reason your friend Conure died, which I didn't know before? You and your friends can't smoke, or vape around your bird period for various reasons. You would need a couple good air purifiers like IQair with large carbon filters like the HealthPro Plus, or MultiGas GC Air Purifier and keep smoking/vaping activities outside. Plus bird sure be around family not just in your room, which means parents and other family members full support and want a bird as well, otherwise it is very hard to make it work without support. Part of growing up is accepting responsibility and having to watch everything you do, depending on situation. Unless your willing to change routine and smoke outdoors, including your friends smoke outside, or not at all and explain to them is due to you having a bird that can have respiratory issues, or even death, so no longer can be tolerated as far as smoking in room goes. Best thing you can do is re-home bird, before something bad happens, then the bird would be better off going to a home where he is wanted for the rest of his long life, if taken care of can live 20 years plus.
At very least I give you the fact your being honest, but is likely reason your friend Conure died, which I didn't know before? You and your friends can't smoke, or vape around your bird period for various reasons. You would need a couple good air purifiers like IQair with large carbon filters like the HealthPro Plus, or MultiGas GC Air Purifier and keep smoking/vaping activities outside. Plus bird sure be around family not just in your room, which means parents and other family members full support and want a bird as well, otherwise it is very hard to make it work without support. Part of growing up is accepting responsibility and having to watch everything you do, depending on situation. Unless your willing to change routine and smoke outdoors, including your friends smoke outside, or not at all and explain to them is due to you having a bird that can have respiratory issues, or even death, so no longer can be tolerated as far as smoking in room goes. Best thing you can do is re-home bird, before something bad happens, then the bird would be better off going to a home where he is wanted for the rest of his long life, if taken care of can live 20 years plus.
Last edited:
- Aug 21, 2010
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- Goffins: Gabby, Abby, Squeaky, Peanut, Popcorn / Citron: Alice / Eclectus: Angel /Timneh Grey: ET / Blue Fronted Amazon: Gonzo /
RIP Gandalf and Big Bird, you are missed.
RedBoat, thanks so much for honesty and caring. Agree with the previous advice, either re-home or return to Petco is best for all. One day in the future you will be in a far better position to have a companion bird!
Kiwibird
Well-known member
- Jul 12, 2012
- 9,539
- 111
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- 1 BFA- Kiwi. Hatch circa 98', forever home with us Dec. 08'
I agree with the general sentiments already expressed that the mature and responsible thing to do would be to either return him to petco or rehome him. If you opt to rehome him, please do NOT sell him to the friends who smokes weed and who’s bird mysteriously died at 2 years of age. Conures live 30+ years, even with poor genetics and diet, they do not just drop dead after a couple years for no reason. There was a reason. Possibly Teflon fumes if those products are used in his home or other airborne toxins or even an untreated infection. Your friend is not in any better position at this time in life to own a bird than you are. If he can’t even come up with $400 for the bird, what would he do if the bird got sick and had a $1000 vet bill? Please rehome to a responsible adult who can provide adequate cage, toys, healthy diet, attention and vet care. Ask your parent(s) to help screen potential buyers if you aren’t sure what to look for to make sure he ends up with someone who can actually take care of him.
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