African grey or hans macaw as pet?

Question

Hi i am not sure which bird to get out of an african grey, amazon or hans macaw. I want one that likes to be cuddles, scartched, taken for drives and am not sure with the african grey can any african grey owners reply and tell me what they think being an african grey owner.

Answer 1

The best bird I ever helped raise was a African Grey. They do however attach to one person usually. If you have children or other family who would want to be involved with the bird it may not be the best choice. The worst birds I have ever met were macaws. They are loud and not cuddlely at all. Maybe there are nicer macaws out there but I've never met one. The Amazons are pretty cool. They are about neutral between the two. Have you considered a Cockatoo. They are very lovable but don't have quite the vocabulary of the African Grey. Also the African Grey is not usually a screecher. Most of the time they just talk alot. Most of the other birds will drive you crazy making loud pitched screaming noises. Good luck. I miss the African Grey that I raised almost 10 years ago. I'll never forget him.

Answer 2

Well I'm the mommy of an African Grey named Willow.  He was born in 2000.  I got him when he was 4 & 1/2 mos old.  I also have a Blue Fronted Amazon.  I think the choice is yours.  All birds have their own personalities.  If you want a talker, then I would suggest the gray.  The Amazons are good talkers too.  Mine doesn't say a word, she'll whistle. but that's it.  It's a gamble on any bird I'm afraid, for talking, and being a great bird.  They are like children, you will never really know how it's personality will be.  My gray started talking at 9 mos. and hasn't shut up since.  Hee-Hee...  He's a great bird.  But so is my Amazon...Willows vocabulary is hundreds and hundreds of words, truly a brite talkative fellow.  says sentences, single words and mixes his words constantly to make new sentences.  But Amazons are known for being good talkers too.  Mine isn't...  She's an amazing bird in spite of not uttering a word.  So, do your homework and choose the bird that tugs at your heart.  That's it...  Get a very young hand raised baby, you'll bond with your new bird, and all will be good...Good luck in your birdie search...

Answer 3

Hi,

The best way I have found to pick out a bird is to go down to a breeder and let the bird pick you. There will be an instant bound and it is worth it.

A Grey is the most intelligent of birds, true enough. But if you move a lot or change it's enviorment. The Grey is a nervous bird so special consideration when moving this bird.

An Amazon is very entertaining and will keep you laughing all day long. But they love to set back and watch not be cuddled. Make sure you get a female here, the male tends to get aggressive at times.

The Hans, is a good bird but it tends to be a bit nippy at times you really need to work with this guy to train that out of him.

The Grey I believe would be the best answer. But if that is beyond your buget then try a Meyers Parrot. This guy is a little known jewel of the parrot world..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8TllNFR5...