What type of bird would be right for me?

Question

I'm mostly considering either a Blue-Crowned Conure, a Meyers Parrot, or a Double Yellow-Headed Amazon.

I've never owned birds before, but have been around Cockatiels, Cockatoos, and Macaws.

I don't want something quite so demanding as a Macaw, but would like something considerably more ambitious and challenging than a 'tiel.

Noise level is not a concern.

I need something that can entertain itself for a while. I'm still in school, so I will be gone for about eight hours a day. Other people will be at home some days, but not every day.

Another concern I have is price. I have a budget of no more than $500 for the bird, cage and accessories not included. I'm not sure what the Amazons cost on average, but know that the Conure or Meyers Parrot would be within price range.

Help? I'm very open to suggestions.

Answer 1

I would not get a Double Yellow Head for two reasons, one they are out of your price range and two they are birds who require an experienced bird owner. I would recommend a Conure of any type, just depends on how well you can tolerate the noise level. Meyer's Parrots are good birds and they are on the quieter side. You might also look at Senegals and Red Bellied Parrots, they are related to the Meyer's and are also on the quieter side and can learn to talk a little. If you get them from a breeder, you should be able to get one for your specified price. I am sorry, I didn't read your post correctly, you aren't going to be able to get a Blue-Crown Conure or any of the birds I listed, the cage, and accessories for your price range. The only places would be classified ads or a rescue center. You could probably get a Green Cheek Conure, they sweet birds, and everyone who has owned seems to like them alot. They are quieter and more affectionate than others.  You might check into Indian Rinneck Parakeets, I don't know much about them, other than you could get one for your price range.

Answer 2

Maybe a parakeet?

Answer 3

A challenging choice would be a parrotlet.  They have all the personality of an amazon packed into a tiny 5 " little body.   Don't let their small size fool you - these guys think they're giants and they have the attitude to match.  (If you google "parrotlet image" you'll find pics on the web.)

I owned one of these little guys several years ago and they do everything the big guys do but their smaller size makes them slightly less challenging to handle.  These guys are fun!  

Based on your price range, you'll have a better selection if you look among the smaller birds.  A Lovebirds might also be a good choice pr a quaker parrot if they're legal in your state (they're not in Cali).  I wouldn't be so quick to write off cockatiels as not being challenging enough though.  I'm working with a little 'tiel I rescued and she is fighting me every step of the way!

I recommend going to a breeder that breeds/handraises several different species.  An experienced reputable breeder can be an invaluable resource to help you find an appropriate bird not just for your budget but for your lifestyle and the size of your home.  

You mention being out of the house all day.  Are you going to be able to spend the 2-4 hours interacting with and training the bird every day?  These are not low maintenance pets that you can put into a cage and ignore.  They are social flock creatures and need socialization and companionship as much as they need food and water.  A bird that does not get enough attention and interaction will develop behavior problems such as screaming, feather destructive behaviors and biting.

Are you willing to work hands-on with a bird that will bite you?  All birds bite to one degree or another especially when they first come home and don't know you.  You cannot own a parrot and expect not to get bitten on occasion.  Do you know how to train it to "step-up"?  Are you willing to put the time and band-aids into teaching a creature that is essentially a wild animal with all its wild instincts intact?  Parrots are not domesticated.   It's like living with a 2 year old.  Forever.

Price of the bird should not be your only concern.  What about annual vet visits?  Wing and nail trims several times a year? A never ending supply of toys your bird will destroy regularly?  High quality pelleted food and fresh fruits and veggies every day?  All these things are continuing costs and need to be considered.  "Birdseed" or "Parrot mix" is NOT an adequate diet and can seriously impact the health of your bird.  Also, if you go away for more than a day or two you will have to find a bird sitter or boarding to take care of your bird.

All that being said, if you still decide to get a bird then go to a breeder and put down a deposit on an unweaned baby. Many breeders will let you visit with your baby during the the handfeeding process allowing you to gain important experience and advice on handling.  As a novice bird owner, you need this kind of mentoring and supervised experience before you try and handle anything beyond a parakeet.