Jumping to conclusions

Thomas and I had an all-day event yesterday that necessitated packing an overnight bag.  We did not stay overnight, but we needed a bag full of stuff for the day, that we packed Friday night.

The parrots, specifically Stella, Max, and Rocky, saw us packing a bag and assumed we were leaving on a trip.  They were very! unhappy! that we were leaving them.

Stella started running after us, attacking our feet.  She also always uses her beak to steady herself when she steps up.  Friday night, she applied way more pressure than was necessary (not enough to break the skin or even bruise, but it was uncomfortable) before stepping up -- just to let us know she was unhappy with what was going on.

Rocky started acting toward Thomas the way he acts toward me -- running after him and attacking his feet.

Max was extra needy, not letting us out of her sight, giving us extra kisses, flying to us unbidden, etc.

Though of course I do feel bad when we leave the parrots overnight (which we were not even doing this time!) Max is the only one who made me want to be around her more.  Note to Stella and Rocky: you catch more flies with honey than vinegar.

We also had to leave the house by 4:30, which we usually only do when we have a plane to catch.  All signs pointed to us being away for a week.  They must have been so happy when we got back home in time for dinner.

I doubt they learned their lesson.

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Waiting

phoneladysaid...

that is so cute my quaker would have climbed down those stairs by himself he has already done it here where I live we have a set of stairs to the loft and he climbed down them . He is just too smart for his own good .

May 17, 2011 10:59 AM

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Brian, by request

A friend who reads this blog e-mailed me and asked me to write more about Brian, specifically requesting a video.  Of course I was more than happy to oblige!

Wandering around the newspaper:


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Birding update

Over the weekend, we got out to do some birding.  There were so many American Redstarts out!  Here's a decent shot of a female (obviously we did not get a better camera yet):


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Dirty beak

Rocky had eaten a bunch of vegetables and hadn't cleaned his beak.  He then started walking around the house, depositing little pieces of food everywhere.  Unacceptable!  I didn't get a before picture as I didn't know what Thomas was up to until it was too late, but here's a during:


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Max/Rocky interaction

These pictures are a little dark, and once again I missed the beginning of the confrontation as I really don't just sit with a camera poised to take pictures of the parrots all day long!

Thomas was reading the paper and Max and Rocky were walking around, probably desiring some attention.  Of course, they'd both rather not have to share him.  I'm not sure who started it, but there was some tail grabbing taking place, by both parrots.  Since Rocky's tail is longer, Max is usually more successful.

I am inclined to mostly blame Rocky, while Thomas is inclined to mostly blame Max.

In any case, Rocky ran to Thomas for protection:


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Brian's bathing antics

In another installment of "be careful what you wish for" -- three Brian videos!  My friend may regret ever making this request.  Earlier this week, Thomas was sitting at the table eating his post-run breakfast, including some Gatorade.  As part of a nervous tic, he was moving the glass around, which intrigued Brian to no end, as you can see in this video:



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Why Are Some Parrots Red

Red has been long known as the color love. It also signifies love and passion but also danger. People associate the color red with love, Valentines, danger, desire, speed, strength, violence, anger, emergency exit signs, stop signs, and blood. Its usual attributes are strength, force, power, control, and leadership. Stimulation, warmth, excitement, good health, physical energy, love, sex, passion, courage, and protection are also associated with this strong color. But in pet birds especially in parrots—being red is an entirely different story.



The red in parrots



When it comes to colors in parrots, the most common is green. But did you know that there is no pigment or tinge of green present in parrots’ feathers? According to experts, although parrots appear green, only pigments present in parrots’ feathers are red and yellow.



Red parrots becoming popular pet parrot preferences because they exude mystical beauty. But did you know that some parrots are red because of their melanin chemistry and feather structure?



Studies show that some parrots are red due to Tyndall Effect. During Tyndall Effect, light scatters, thus, reflecting off the feather structure. This process also results to the illusion of a variety of colors.



Another reason why some parrots are red is because specific kinds of this bird have pigments in their feathers called psittacin or carotenoids—the ones that gives carrots and yellow squash their respective colors. These are usually influenced by certain environmental factors and elements like food intake or diet.

Experts found out that red parrots emerge because the colors of the nutritional elements of the food they take are intensified. Although foods don’t usually influence a parrot’s color, it is quite significant in the process because good food will result to good health shown in the sheen of a parrot’s feathers.



Since feathers are parrot’s—generally birds’—most distinctive characteristic, on-going studies about the coloration of parrots are conducted worldwide. Most of these studies have found out that a parrot’s color can mean several things like assertiveness and other behavioral contexts.



The most popular red parrot in pet trades today is the Red-Breasted Senegal. Although is has a moderate talking ability, many parrot enthusiasts purchase this red parrot because they are playful and independent Always climbing, chewing and playing with their toys, red-breasted Senegals are among the favorite selection of parrot pets because they have friendly nature and their ability to learn and perform tricks.



Since they create very low noise, this red parrot is suitable as a family pet bird especially for those who live in city apartments. Although it has a friendly nature, this red parrot should be handled and trained regularly so they will remain tamed.

What You Should Know Before Buying A Pet Parrot

Parrots are great animals. In fact, as a pet, parrots can be pretty entertaining especially with children who just love their mimicry. But like other kinds of pets, parrots are not all sweetness and light. They can also be a bother especially when you are not really much into pets.



Here are some things that you have to take into consideration before buying a parrot for a pet. Read on and think long and hard about each item. Remember that parrots are not exactly cheap. Once you buy them, you won’t have any choice but to take care of them.



1. Parrots are noisy



Mimicries may seem cute for a while but after several weeks of non-stop noise, it would eventually become a bother. If you are the kind of person who values your peace and quiet at home, parrots are not the pets for you. Their songs are not the same as the musical sounds that some birds make. The larger the parrot bird that you have, the louder the sound that they will produce.



Do you know that they can even scream so loud, you’d be running for cover? Your neighbors will even hear it. A normal parrot will probably scream at least two times a day. A screaming match will probably last for about five to fifteen minutes.



2. Parrots love to play with things



Remember that parrots cannot tell the difference between a wooden toy that they are allowed to play with and a priceless wooden furniture that your great great grandparents bequeath you. They can chew at it and you won’t be able to do anything about it.



And sometimes, they won’t even be content with furniture. They can also chew computer and electric cords, books, papers and virtually everything that they can get their claws on. Wallpapers, clothes can also be clawed on. So, be very careful.



3. Parrots can bite



They may seem docile creatures but they are actually not. Parrots can bite and they can claw. Even small birds can do this like the parakeet. And this is not just the ordinary bite that will not result to a big wound. They can actually draw blood and rip the skin.



Some who bite really hard can even break the small bones. This is not to say that parrots are mean creatures. They are just scared of people they do not yet know. Their defense mechanism is of course to bite.

The Talkative Pet Bird

Parrots are very interesting birds because of its mimicking abilities. When petting bird is your concern, it takes a lot difference than getting other domesticated animals for a household companion. A parrot is a noisy bird, more unpleasant if not given due attention and care. It is subject to emotional fits depending on how its instincts and traits developed from former habitat; to compliment or conform, to the lifestyle of the adopting family it embraced.



Reasons People Get Pets into their Households



1. When a person is alone in the house a pet companion is the solution. Individuals find it comfortable to select bird or animal pet because it emits trust. You'll likely distrust more individuals from your own peers than pet animals.



2. Many people choose parrots because they could easily communicate and could return back conversations as they have instinctive qualities to mimic.

3. Pets, regardless of kind have therapeutic implications to the aged, or desperate.



4. A parrot helps to usher the presence of somebody thru noisy enthusiastic antics to welcome a friend it recognize.



5. Birds are nature-groomed, tidy, beautiful, and attractive because of its colorful feathers.



6. Unlike any other pet, parrots never get contaminated easily being caged and are not able to stray on grounds.



TYPICAL PET PARROTS



There are many parrot classifications from so many kinds in various countries of origin. But there are more to a dozen of species for each type mentioned in all those actively trainable birds. To illustrate a few from among the types "Conures," will tell that each one comes from a certain wild place of origin, almost all from the wilds of South America or South and Eastern Africa where vast virgin forest still abound.



- Sun Conure - A type of Conures parrot it is a very beautiful bird in a mixture of yellow, orange and red with a slight touch of green on its wings. Green is more dominant in the young suns and color become brighter in a series of molts. An adult sun weighs 100 to 120 grams. Gender can't be detected easily except when one observes closely. Female birds are more rounded and smaller than the males that are square, flat and larger. Known for being loud and noisy, are possibly easy to train. Comes from the wilds of Brazil (Northwestern), Venezuela, and Guyana.



- Green Cheek Conure - Originated from South America. Body and wings are of olive green colors, and tail of crimson hue. Throat is of grey-green with small flecks of green. Sex can't be distinguished easily.



Things common among parrots regardless of species are loudness in noise, multi-colored, gender are hard to detect, trainable but need attention, otherwise it'll go naughty. Parrots' life span is mostly average.

The Makings of Good Parrot Breeders

If you are looking for a pet that can live and last for so many years, then you should consider buying a parrot for a pet. Because of their friendly nature and interesting personalities, a wide variety of parrots have been in the pet trade for parrot lovers to enjoy.



But, owning a parrot entails great responsibility. You must be able to give proper care and attention so your pet parrot will enjoy long and healthy life.



Taking care of parrots



Parrots are known for creating close bonds with their owner or the ones who handle them. If there were one person that must understand the bird well, that should be the parrot breeder.



Parrot breeders are significant figures in the lives of parrots because they play a major role in taking care of them. In the lives of parrots, the parrot breeders are foster parents because they take care of the bird from the beginning.



Since the parrot breeders are the ones who look over the well-being and welfare of parrots since birth, the overall health and personality of the parrot depends on the methods of breeding they use. Future behavioral patterns, ability to relate, levels of socialization and emotional health of the parrot will also greatly depend on the kind of care it received from its breeder.



One of the major responsibilities of parrot breeders is feeding the parrot. Since there are different parrot species, parrot breeders will have to learn how to respond properly in feeding in each kind. Aside from knowing the kinds of food and the right diet for each kind of parrot, the proper way of feeding should also be paid attention, too. Parrot breeders should know the proper way of feeding each kind so as not to put the baby parrot in danger.



Aside from feeding, “weaning” and “bathing” are other major responsibilities of parrot breeders. Because of the great responsibility a parrot breeder must take into consideration, not everyone can be a parrot breeder.



Time, energy, commitment, patience, and resources should be considered to be successful in this endeavor. Since time and dedication is quite crucial in obtaining healthy, non-hybridized specimens of parrots, interested parrot breeders should prepare themselves for this tedious but rewarding task.



There are actually a long list of parrot and tropical bird breeders available on line. Whether you are located in United Kingdom, Europe, Canada, Australia, or in any of the states of United States, there is a directory of seasoned parrot breeders who understand the needs of the parrots very well. You might want to visit these sites in order to ensure the well-being of your parrot.

The Joy of Having a Parrot Pet

Because of their impressive nature, people buy parrots to become their pet on pet stores on impulse. Popular choices are amazons, macaws, and cockatoos because of their adorable traits and characteristics.



But, better be careful in choosing and buying parrot pets on impulse because caring for them can be an overwhelming and stressful task for you. Before you bring home a parrot to become your pet, make sure that you do a little research on its types and caring procedures so you will know what is the most suitable parrot specie for you.



Parrot shopping guidelines



Every parrot—or any pet or animal for that matter—is different. Thus, they require special needs and caring. You must know by now that choosing a parrot for a pet is a lifelong commitment so it’s advisable that you do not make hasty decisions in buying one. Since buying a parrot requires a good decision-making, here are some things that can get you started:



1. A parrot’s “noise” is one of the major considerations in choosing any pet parrot. Majority of the Conure species and Quaker Parakeets produce ear-piercing screeches that you might not tolerate.



Amazons, Macaws, Cockatoos, and African Greys, one the other hand, give out information about you that can smear your reputation while Pionus, and some medium-sized Poicephalus like Senegals and Meyers, are known to create lesser noise compared other parrots. Budgies, Lovebirds, and Parrotlets, on other hand, are famous for not having very loud screeches because they do not possess a real ability to scream.



2. The next basic thing to consider when you’re pondering over buying a pet parrot is the mess the bird will create. Don’t be shocked if you see at least one-third of the food you give to the parrot will end up scattered on the floor.



This “food-scattering” is just part of a parrot’s nature of being experimental or just being naughty. Aside from food particles, feathers will also be present everywhere. If you are not used to having pets as messy as parrots and you are about to have one, you might want consider placing its cage where cleaning materials are accessible.



3. You should also consider the attention you can give and the attention your parrot pet will need. Being social flock animals, parrots are known to enjoy utmost attention. You must know when to pay attention to your pet parrot because they become easily depressed, lazy, and untrusting. Give them enough freedom to explore and interact with you.



4. You also be prepared to maintain the cleanliness of your pet parrot. No bird—or any pet for that matter—will be happy and healthy if they are confined in a soiled, dirty cage. Putting newspapers under their cage is the easiest way to get rid off soiled perches but make sure you don’t use colored papers because they contain toxins that can be harmful to your parrot pet.



5. Lastly, contemplate on feeding your parrot pet. Far from common perception, birds—especially parrots—cannot live in birdseed alone. Daily pelleted or seed diet combined with a variety of dark green, orange, and yellow vegetables or cooked brown rice, pasta, and beans are best for your winged pet.

The Basics of Parrot Cages

People who decide to have pets at home should provide suitable housing for the animal. This means getting one that is proportion to the size and type of parrot because this will greatly affect the lifespan of the bird.



It is advisable to get one that is very large. Most of these birds prefer to climb, stretch and play so there must be enough space for the parrot to do this inside instead of it just sitting on a perch located inside the cage.



The housing should have horizontal bars. This will make it easy for the parrot to grab hold onto the sides whenever it feels like climbing inside the cage. The distance between each bar should also be checked so that the bird will not injure itself during this activity.



Though its true there are some cheap cages that can be found in the market, the owner must not get this based on this criteria alone. This is because the material used in making the cage will not be of good quality that may also pose as a danger for the parrot. It is better then to get an expensive one made of stainless steel or powder coated since these are not toxic to the pet.



Conventional bird cages have doors and latches. People who decide to get a parrot should avoid using this because it can cause injury to the creature’s beak, head, neck or wing. The best to get those are those that are detachable since this has been proven to be safe.



Most animals produce waste. The ideal carrot cage should have a pull out try in the bottom so the owner can just take this off and wash it before putting it back inside. This is better than going inside and to clear the housing of droppings, which will take a long time to clean.



The parrot cage should come have a designated area where the bowl will be placed. Some manufacturers sell this with a plate inside while others have to be purchased separately. This should also be removable because this needs to be cleaned twice a day before and after feeding.



The perch where the parrot sits must be near where the food is located. This will make it easy for the bird to go to when it is time for feeding.



Having a pet big or small is an enormous responsibility. The individual should have a spacious and safe cage to enjoy many years with the parrot.

Taking Care of an African Gray Parrot

To most breeders and pet lovers out there, the African Gray parrot has got to be one of the most charming parrots out there. Known for its wonderful character, the African Gray parrot is also one of the most preferred species for possessing an admirable combination of high intelligence and extraordinary charm.



If you are one of those who were instantly drawn to the beauty of African Gray parrot, it is a must that you supply yourself with enough information about these wonderful birds.



According to taxonomy, there are basically two subspecies or types of African gray parrot that can be found in today’s pet trade: the Congo African gray and the Timneh African gray. The former type is characterized for being slightly larger than latter with bright, red tail feathers. The Timneh, on the other hand, is overall darker than the Congo African.



When it comes to temperament, there are significant differences between the two. Timnehs are believed to be more laid back and less prone to feather picking and other neurotic behaviors compared to the Congo African gray.



Generally, African Gray parrots live from 25 to 50 years depending on the history of the bird, lifestyle, stress factors, diseases, and other aspect that may affect its lifespan. When it comes to intelligence, this parrot specie is considered as an extremely intelligent bird because of its ability to talk or mimic different sounds and noises and for having a unique capacity for putting their words and sounds into the right context.



Despite its admirable traits, there are some behavior issues you have to deal with when you possess an African Gray parrot. Because of their intelligence, this bird is quite demanding because you need to spend a lot of time in giving social contact and for mental stimulation. A lot of patience and attention should be given to these birds. These birds are also known for biting and feather picking when they get bored or depressed.



Here are some dos and don’ts in taking care of your African Gray parrot:



1. Make sure that you know the specie of your parrot because having a good knowledge the will provide you better guidelines in taking care of it.



2. Make sure that you provide you African Gray with the basics it needs like large and safe cage, good and healthy diet, a wide range of toys, a dependable T-stand, as well as a gym or play stand, scale, and a commercial carrier.



3. If possible, take time off to talk to the breeder and pet shop assistants who have dealt with your parrot. Talking to them will give you an idea how the bird has been treated in the past.



4. Make sure that you objectively assess if the African Grey Parrot is compatible to your living space and lifestyle. Since these birds are quite demanding pets, attention and clean environment will keep them healthy and happy.



5. Because of its quite demanding nature, an African Grey parrot is not suitable for everyone. Make sure that you think a thousand times before purchasing it and have a written guarantee of its age if possible.



6. Never, ever buy an African Gray parrot on impulse because it can be quite stressful.



7. Don’t keep questions to yourself if you want to know something about the bird.



8. Don’t forget to make a list before you go to the breeder so you won’t miss out on important information you need to know in taking care of your pet.

Raising Your Parrot Pet in Humane Manner

Parrot as a pet has to be out of the cage once in a while. Now this is quite a big deal raising parrots to abide silent rules of knowing when it must be inside or outside a cage. The reality of having parrots as pet is all about the freedom it can get to interact with its owners. If a parrot is constantly in the cage wailing repeated shrieks all the time, then it is nothing but a talking trophy.



It takes daily minutes of patience to gain your pet parrot's respect. Take note, a parrot is just a bird, but the amount of loyalty you can get out of training it is priceless. By giving it firm orders to climb on its perch up or down is just the start. It is quite an accomplishment to see your bird do it in a command. It means the next tasks are on the right stake.



Freedom and discipline don't go handy with parrots. Just like spoiled brat kids it will have the tendency to abuse freedom. Once a parrot uses its wings on its first fly, it is dominating the situation. It has the tendency to follow around and do unexpected and menacing things like pecking furniture, especially woods.



Once a parrot has gained this confidence while your house is not intended as parrot flying skylines, then it is the start of mess. Do not let your parrot take the full control, but never attempt to punish it harshly at the same time. It takes a lot of patience to watch again and again until the bird settles down with closed wings, picking it up and putting back on its perch constantly, until the bird understands the meaning of getting behaved.



After taking control of your parrot's behavior, you cannot avoid being nipped once in a while, especially if your parrot is younger and curious. Parrots must be trained not do this as habit by giving a "NO" command. You can also blow its face after biting you or giving it an earthquake shake while settled on your palm.



In extreme cases, deprivation is the best solution to erase the habit. Any strong pecking must be followed by effective punishment of putting your pet parrot in an isolation cage for 15 minutes or so. By constant practice, the parrot will finally understand why it loses freedom after a bad behavior like biting.



As part of being amused, parrots scream with all their might as a sign of boredom. To avoid too much of this, distract this parrot's habit by placing it close to a TV where it can watch. Provide playthings at a tender age and make sure not to neglect its need for fun.

Parrots for Sale

It is clear some people want to have parrot as pet. If you are that person, you may be anxious about getting the finest one for your personal satisfaction, care and business. Parrots are for sale all around, and selling such pet is 100% different from selling home commodities. It will need time and dedication.



This will be a guide if you want know what species you would prefer. Here are the descriptions of selected parrots perfect for sale:



1. LOVEBIRDS - very adorable little small breed from Africa, lovebirds can be tamed like common parrots except for the aggressiveness towards opposite sex, the male rubs the perch as a distinct sexual behavior, which is quite disturbing to some owners. They have to be housed in different cages. Generally, lovebirds are excellent in parenting their siblings and very good in breeding.



2. AFRICAN GREYS - More than vanity, this parrot specie is the best sound imitator from among the species. It doesn't mean this parrot has to be on high sale just because of the talking qualities. Owners getting disappointed with non-talking African Grey specie often tends to neglect their pets afterwards.



3. COCKATIELS - Lovely because of the distinct pointed crown, this specie can learn tricks easily, very affectionate, and can live to a life span of 15 to 20 years given the proper care. The coating on its feather can cause allergies. Cockatiels have this distinct behavior when left in dark, which can cause self-injury.



4. SENEGAL PARROTS - Medium-sized specie good for apartments because of its more quiet behavior. Much adept in imitating sounds of surroundings than distinct speech of people. It is not recommended for outdoor and spacious free walks as it can fly farther and get lost.



5. PARROTLETS - Comes in tiny sizes, this specie have no problem with dark places, considered brave. The voice is quite small, best if you only tolerate chirping when bred in a small flat or room. Prone to accidents, they must be looked after all the time when out of the cage.



6. CANARIES - Specifically attributed to Canary Island, after Romans named it. Canaries have three types. Song Canaries are known for the distinctive voice and singing. Color Canaries have attractive and bright colors, making the collecting of several varieties popular to breeders. Canaries are territorial and not so sociable. From among the parrots, this specie has the sweetest voice.



The sale of parrots worldwide happens silently. It comes with interest and passion, but believe it or not, thinking about the small world you can give to these lovely birds is a journey. Living with parrots is worth a quality life.

Parrot Pets in Edmonton

Known as the Gateway to the North, Edmonton in Alberta, Canada is a popular commercial, manufacturing, and transportation center situated in an agricultural and mining area. Having a rich agricultural area, Edmonton is known to be one of the best places to breed and buy a pet parrot.



Indeed, if there were one type of bird that is preferred by many pet lovers, that would be parrots. Over the years, parrots have become a popular choice for pets because they colorful, beautiful, entertaining, and impressive pets to have.



And since they can be trained to “talk,” or imitate sounds from their environment, parrot pets are considered wonderful companions by many seasoned animal lovers. If you’re planning to buy a pet parrot in Edmonton—or in any place for that matter—here are some of the basic things that you have to purchase to give your parrot pet a healthy and happy environment:



1. A decent and loving home. Just like any other parrot, Edmonton parrots pets are known to thrive in attention. Giving the bird a decent and loving home will keep it healthy and closer to its owner.



2. Good healthy diet. It is quite important to feed your pet parrot the best diet that you can. Try to change its diet and make it as interesting as possible.



3. A large and safe cage. Although large pet parrot cages are advisable, it’s not really necessary. What’s important is you provide your pet parrot the proper or medium-sized cage it needs to explore and sleep in. For Edmonton parrot pets, it is advisable that you buy cages that can be transformed into a play area to keep your parrot amused and safe.



4. A good range of toys. It is a must that every bird posses a variety of toys to play. At least three sets of toys are recommended to keep your pet parrot interested. Try to choose toys that are non-destructive and are large or small enough to fit into your parrot’s cage. It’s not really necessary to buy expensive toys because they can be home-made as long as the parrot enjoys it.



5. A dependable T-stand. T-stands are actually training tools, thus, they should not be placed where the bird can use it often because they can do tricks you might miss.



Other must haves include the gym or play stand, scale, and a carrier to transport them safely.



The ultimate Edmonton parrot pet site



To acquire more knowledge about Edmonton parrot pets, visit the Edmonton Pet Parrot Association (EPPA) website. The site aims to educate the general public about the proper way of taking care parrots.



To update themselves, its members conduct meetings every month. The site also features different parrot monthly and conducts talks and discussions regularly. The guest speakers present research reports and also conduct toy-making sessions.



The EPPA mainly focuses on aspects of keeping healthy and happy pet parrots. In their meetings, helpful information on topics like parrot nutrition, health, and behavior are featured. Round table discussions on suggested topics and experiences of Edmonton parrot pets are also shared. The site also features the parrots they breed like Alexandrines, Amazons, Macaws, Quakers, and Ringnecks. The site accepts interested parrot pet owners for membership.

Knowing Your African Grey Parrot

African Grey parrots have been popular pets since the time of King Henry VIII of England. Because of its ability to speak, more and more affluent families adopted the possession of this parrot.



Today, countless of African Grey parrots are being hand reared by various breeders for because they are amazing and loving companions not to mention one of the in demand species in different pet trades for possessing high intelligence.



Despite its superb characteristics, African Grey parrots are not suitable for all environments—especially those with children—because they can be strong, they can bite using their pointed beak, and they can scratch with their daunting claws.



If you are planning to buy an African Grey parrot or planning to have one, it is a must that you know almost everything about this specific type of parrot so you would know what to expect.



African Grey Parrot Basics



Considered as the best mimics of all parrots, African Grey parrots are known for causing people to place a lot expectation on their eventual performance because of their phenomenal gift of speech, for their problem solving and reasoning skills and their ability to understand the human language.



Although they are considered as one of the superior types of parrots there are, African Greys are the most neurotic, temperamental, nippy, and one of the shyest parrot species.



Usually, African Grey Parrots are medium-sized parrots native to Africa. Primarily grey with accents of white area around the eye, African Greys are also famous for their red or maroon tail.



Basically, there are two subspecies of African Greys: the Congo—which are about 12 inches to 30cm long, with light grey feathers, deep red tails and black beaks—and the Timneh race—which are smaller, have a darker charcoal gray color, a darker maroon tail, with a horn colored beak. Today, there is also known a third and fourth sub specie—the Ghana African Grey that is similar to the Congo African grey but darker and smaller and the Cameroon African Grey or the “big silvers.”



Determining the sex of an African Grey parrot will sorely depend on their physical traits: males are generally bigger in size, round eyes, have a flatter and broader head while females have longer and slender neck, small rounded head and elliptical eyes.



These relatively quiet parrots have an average lifespan of 50 to 65 years and are known to feed primarily on nuts and fruits, usually supplemented by vegetables. These birds are known for having a tendency to pluck their feathers if they get bored and tend to bond to only one person if they are not used to interacting with different people on a regular basis.



Like any pet parrot, African Grey parrots require a large commitment and dedication. If you’re planning to buy one, African Grey parrot prices ranges from $ 750 to $1000 in the market today.

Information on Buying a Parrot Cage

Buying a cage for your parrot is not just something that you do on a whim. A cage is important especially with this kind of pet, who can be really restless and messy in the house. Besides, the cage will have to also depend on the kind of parrot breed that you have.



For instance, breeds that are bigger will of course need a bigger cage. This will not only ensure their safety but also your things safety as parrots can get really wild when they are out of their cages. They will claw on your sofa and chew on everything that they can get their hands on.



How big will it be?



The size is one of the most important consideration when buying a cage. You don’t just buy a size that will fit the current size of your pet parrot, you will also have to think about the other things that you have to put in there. Will he be able to move freely? Will he be able to fit in there when he grows?



Owners actually recommend that you buy the largest that you can find on the market. Some pet shops will recommend some cage sizes but remember that these are minimum sizes. If you want your pet to be comfortable and have peace of mind (which will also leave you with a peace of mind), then buy something bigger.



Also, make sure that the cage you will buy have bars that your parrot will not be able to get through. For instance, for large parrots, spacing that are wide can be good to minimize the feeling of being caged in but try to also see if they can fit into it. Small spaces in between bars are recommended for parrots that are small like doves and finches.



What’s the shape?



Although some people think that the shape of the cage is purely for aesthetic pleasure. It is not. The shape of the cages will depend on the kind of parrot that you have. For instance, if you have a small parrot, they will be doing some flying from side to side so the length of the cage is more important than the height.



The case is not the same with large parrots, which need the height of the cage for climbing, stretching and playing. Still, you also have to make sure that the width of the cage is enough for the parrot.

Happiness With A Blue Parrot

Parrots are known to be one of the most entertaining, loyal, and fun-loving pets any person or pet lover can ever have. Through the years, the popularity of parrots—no matter what kind or color they may be—has grown into large quantities.



Although the type of parrot—the specie and family—is important for a starting owner or breeder, one of the growing preferences among the so many kinds is the color—specifically blue.



Blue parrots—or those that bear the shades of blue in their feathers, eyes, or beaks—are one of the favorites among parrot owners especially those that are first time owners because they look lovely as they grow older and bigger.



Why choose a blue parrot?



Blue is one of the most popular and favorite colors because it signifies calmness and placidity. In its different shades, blue is always associated with tranquility, relaxation, peace, harmony as well as cleanliness, loyalty and depression.



Among the so many parrots that have a shade of blue color are the Quaker Parrots. Although this specific breed also comes in a variety of colors like green and yellow, the blue ones are quite in demand because they are rare and usually expensive.



In pet trades today, blue baby parrots cost around $400 while the pallid blue females are about $600. Quaker pairs in shade of blue or pallid blue (those with dark eyed cinnamon blue) are sold for $1350 because they are guaranteed to split to pallid male with an unrelated blue pallid female pair and can also produce pallid blue female babies.



Single breeder Quakers namely blue females range from $400 while the blue make parrots that are guaranteed split to red eyed cinnamon ones cost $800. The blue male parrots that are guaranteed split to pallid male can be brought for $750. The pallid blue females cost $600 while the pallid blue males cost $1250.



The most popular blue parrot of all times was the Macaw-Glaucous or known as “Blue Macaw.” Originating from Argentina, this blue parrot was known to shy, talkative, social wild bird, and pet. Often mistaken for Lear’s Macaw for having a similar size and build, the Blue Macaw stands out for having different coloration. This blue parrot is quite popular because its feathers are blue and could easily change tones with different shades.



Its plumage was a brilliant greenish-blue, the back of its neck has a unique gray-blue color, the head and nape has a bluish-gray color, and the undersides of its wings and tail were black but the topside of the wings exudes a bright sky blue color. Unfortunately, this blue parrot is extinct for less than a century now.



If you’re interested to be a parrot color breeder, books that are comprehensive, thoroughly up-to-date, with illustrations are available in the market now.