Buying from parrot breeders

Why purchase from a breeder and not just from the pet shop around the corner? The answer is quite simple. Most breeders are specialist in their field and have a lot of knowledge about parrots. Your risk of buying a sick or mal-nutrioned parrot is significantly reduced when you buy from a reputable breeder. That is not to say that you cannot buy a good parrot from a pet shop, as some pet shop owners are very informed, but the risk is still higher.

A good breeder will help you choose the right bird, show you the best food to feed your parrot and ensure that the baby parrot has been properly weaned before handing the parrot over to you. Good breeders also understand parrot behaviour and will teach your new family member social and other skills while in his care. One of these skills is flying. A Baby parrot must learn to fly before his wings are clipped.  The way a breeder handles the baby parrot may shape his personality for the rest of the youngster’s life, so it is important for the breeder to know what he is doing.

The best way to find a skilled breeder is to ask fellow parrot owners. If you do not know any parrot owners personally, visit parrot forums on the internet or join your local parrot club. The members will quickly point you in the right direction.

A good breeder will answer all your parrot questions and tell you everything you need to know to take proper care of your parrot. Questions to ask include the sex of the bird, whether the bird has been tested for any diseases, when the babies hatched, what food the baby eats and whether the baby has been handfed or raised by the parents. Also ask to have a look at the baby’s parents. You will get a very good indication what your parrot will look like when he is big. A good breeder will be proud of his aviaries and more than willing to show it to you. Good breeders are also available after the sale to answer questions and to point you in the right direction. If a breeder is willing to take back his bird when you are not entirely satisfied with your purchase it shows that the breeder has confidence in his birds. It is a good sign, just make sure you have all the terms documented in a contract.

Don’t feel offended when the breeder starts asking you questions about your home and family. It is likely that he want to determine whether you will make a proper parrot owner. It shows that the breeder is worried about the welfare of his birds and not only in it for the money.

Remember that parrots have very long life spans. Breeders may charge you a little bit more than pet shops or rescue groups, but buying from a breeder will significantly increase your charges to buy a happy and healthy bird.  It is a small price to pay.