I have a parrot called Kez. My parents think I should give him to the zoo, yet I love him dearly... Help?

Question

I have a beautiful Rosella parrot called Kez. I've had him for just over a year, and he's settled in quite well. He does still try and bite my fingers if I try to put them inside the cage to feed him/stroke him. He screams alot as well, which does get on my parents nerves. They're always telling me how it's unfair since he's stuck in a cage when he should be free like other birds. He has toys in his cage, he's fed daily and I always say morning and goodnight to him, and several times a day I'll put myself near the cage so hes still use to me. My parents think I need to give him the local zoo, where he can socialize with other birds. I don't want to because I think he'd be happier here - even though he'd have no other birds around, he has the love and attention that we can offer; he wouldn't get this from the zookeepers. He'd just be another bird out of the 100-200 they have there. I really do love him.. But what do you think I should do? I'm really stressed about it!

Answer 1

You should let your bird out every day.  If you can't take care of it or don't know how to properly take care of it, its UNFAIR and borderline inhumane to the bird to keep it.  I wouldn't really think of giving it to the zoo first...maybe try posting it on your local craigslist and ask for it to be rehomed.  

Or move out and take the bird with you.  

Answer 2

i have a rozella and they can be noisy at times but mine has gone a bit quieter in the last 18monthe i have had him for 3 years and wouldnt part with him so keep yours

Answer 3

just because you love a bird doesn't mean you can take care of it. you will be able to work with him and probably show him to other people. you should talk to you local zoo.

Answer 4

Do you ever take him out and play with him or is he in the cage all of the time?  How big is his cage?  Why do your parents think he's not happy?  Are you home a lot or is he left on his own much of the day?  All of these can play a factor.

Answer 5

I agree with your parents. He probably does enjoy the brief contact you have with him, but being cooped up in a cage is rubbish compared to having an enclosure with other birds who he can truly interact with. He's not too old to be integrated either I wouldn't think.

Sorry, I know it's a tough one but you must do what is right for this creature, not be selfish.

Answer 6

Read up as much as you can about the bird mate and all the things it needs. I assume its a captive bred bird. Parrots do tend to be noisy, but with lots of patience and time spent, they can be tamed well and the bird can live a happy life. Its good to take it outside for some fresh air in its cage when its a little warmer, and frequent baths are enjoyed so this will keep its moods up. Lots of toys are good to keep it happy and occupied. Time to fly around the room is also a plus thing, exercise and the chance to fly for a while. it may be a good idea for you to start trying to feed him by hand too which will get him used to you a bit quicker.

Why not pop along to a local vet for some more advice and a quick health check?

Answer 7

I think your parents are giving you good advice - give him to the zoo.

Birds were never made to be kept in cages and in isolation.

Kez will be so much happier if he has more freedom and is able to socialise with other birds.