Saltwater fish guy needs a something less scientific!

[Joshmackow]

Having looked after saltwater fish tanks I have had to learn so much about chemistry, biology and anything that is related to healthy growth of these animals. It was all good until my tank started leaking -_-

But now I am venturing into birds, an African Grey

Looking to buy him/her in the next few weeks and I am getting very excited. Hopefully he is all cuddly

 

[Pookamama]

Hi, welcome! I strongly recommend reading The African Grey Parrot Handbook before bringing a grey home! It really helped me understand how they think a bit more and how to structure their environment in order for a healthy relationship. Where are you planning on getting your bird?

 

[Adinafloyd]

Hi, as Pookamama said I would highly recommend studying these birds first. Parrots are not easy pets. They require ALOT of time, patience, cleaning, care and love. But if you are willing to do all that then the love you will get back can never be measured by words. Read thru the old posts here, there is alot of info here and any questions, just ask. there are lots of people on here that can probably help you. Welcome to the forum...

 

[Joshmackow]

Thanks for the welcomes

This will be my first parrot but my brother has an Amazon (peanut), so I have learnt a lot through him. All I have done is read and watch videos lately. Will have a look into this book as well

Forums = best knowledge. Nothing better than experience! Hopefully I don't have to ask too many hairy questions. But no doubt I will do something wrong haha.

I live in Australia, so I will be getting my bird from a local bird store who is linking me directly to the good breeders here.

 

[DebsFlock]

Heh. I always wanted a reef tank! The science doesnt scare me... With birds, the lack of established fact does! Look forward to hearing about your new feathered friend!

 

[Joshmackow]

The tanks are amazing, but crazy amounts of work. Less love more maintenance and cleaning needed haha. so much science and also a lack of fact I used to correct a newbee daily.

I can't wait either form my buddy.

 

[wenz2712]

Welcome to the forum

 

[kc_y0]

Firstly, welcome to the forum! May I ask which breeder you are getting your grey from? I am in Australia too, and breeders are somewhat hard to come by, I have only ever seen them in bird shops on a rarity!

 

[Joshmackow]

I will find out the name of the breeder he recommends. The place I go is Peninsula Bird world and he has said he will speak to the better breeders but they can be very picky of who they sell to. so I don't want to look like an idiot in front of him!

A few Aussies here Good to see.

 

[Adinafloyd]

As said I have always wanted a reef tank, now not so sure. I even names the fish at my favorite resturaunt. They have a huge reef tank. When I go They know to put me right beside it. I am just fascinated by them. Did not realize they were that hard. But listening to you I know I would need alot of studying before ever attempting one. Please post pics once you get your new baby.

 

[Joshmackow]

Yea, I made the mistake of not knowing anything! You can't even put fish in your tank for at least 1-2 months after setting it up because it has to 'cycle' which means if you do, ammonia kills them..... Most people kill lots of fish It is so sad.

They are worth it, but definitely learn more if you want to. Living Reefs - Reef Aquarium Forums is where I learnt a lot, those guys are amazing.

I will post it as soon as I see them the first time! I am too excited and impatient. Hold back.

 

[4theBirds]

Welcome aboard, from one marine aquarist to another. Congrats on your choice of a Grey (Congo or Timneh?). You will be rewarded by many, many years of companionship. They are very intelligent and entertaining. The science with them is "bird psychology." If you get a chance read Irene Pepperburg's Alex and Me. It's a great book and will give you a different view (rather than the textbook type care book) on what it's like to live with an African Grey. The most important thing to realize is that Parrots remain wild animals and will form a relationship with you more like a companion rather than a pet. You will be a flock mate.

 

[Joshmackow]

Oh you have/had a marine tank as well? Awesome, how long for?

Congo Grey

Thanks for the advice, I don't get enough time to read books (slow reader) Prefer to put as much time straight into my bird!

I get to see two birds this weekend. A boy and a girl. Already got a name though So exciting!!

I will post a bunch of pictures either way, even if it isn't the right bird for me.