Starting to think 2nd bird...

[Chris&Akilah]

Well, at first I decided I would be a one-bird person forever. But of course that was before I realized how much fun they are. Single-bird owners seem to be the minority across the web, and I understand that while some birds may never be buddies, just having other birds nearby to "talk" to can be comforting. But, I always want Akilah to be my 'main' companion parrot. As in, I only want one parrot who considers me it's mate. Ideally, the second bird would be content to hang out, play, and train but not be especially cuddly or physically interactive. The species which don't form pair-bonds sound like they might be what I'm looking for. I'm greatly attracted to the Eclectus, especially females. Maybe even a bonded pair of some sort of 'keet or small parrot. I would prefer a bird that could come out for playtime though, not "look only" birds like finches and doves. If the new bird never became buddies with Akilah, I could deal with it, but they'd have to be able to coexist in the same room at least (seperate cagees of course). So, what species do you all suggest I look into?

[zazanomore]

How about buying a pair of hand raised budgies? I bought my budgies from a pet store, so they had never been tamed. Over time, they've began tolerating me, and they will do the simplest commands like step up, and I can get them to hit a target.

My Einstein is my companion, while Bonnie and Clyde are bonded to each other.

I think having a pair of hand raised budgies would be great. They would come already tame, and with daily interaction, they should remain tame.

I wouldn't mix them with your sennie though, as there is a size difference.

They are really playful birds, and can be taught a number of tricks.

[iknowwhatiknow]

I was going to add something, but I agree entirely with the comment above. Bonded budgies sound like a great idea.

[TheNzJessie]

it sounds like a pair of budgies is what you are looking for. like what zaznomore said. getting one would be unkind as they are flock birds but if you get 2 hand raised it should be perfect for what you are looking for. but 2 unrelated would work better (i think) im no breeder

[iknowwhatiknow]

My brother had two (male) budgie siblings when he was a kid. We never had any problems with them. I can't comment in general though. No mating issues then.

[pirategene]

Hi
Cleaning-up after one bird or many birds is still the same. Just be careful what bird you add because some of them have dander, etc. and can affect other birds. Sometimes getting two birds at one time can cause the birds to "pal" together and kinda not pay attention to you. Have fun searching, I wish I could get another
pirategene and tambo

[Chris&Akilah]

I do like the "English Budgies", despite the shorter life-span they seem to make great pets. We had a blue one when I was very young, named Mickey. But, I'm not too fond of the fact that budgies make noise almost all day, albeit quiet noise. I find the occasional loud noise less disturbing than constant chriping, which is what a happy budgie seems to do. Spending some more time in the bird store helped. I think I may put this off for quite some time, but its still fun to think about. Thanks for the replies.

[TheNzJessie]

hmm i have to agree budgies are very chirpy. i have no experience with the noise level of lovebirds but i heard they are more quiet than budgies.

[zazanomore]

My budgies have their moments, but really, the amount of noise isn't that bad.

Also, the busier you keep them, the quieter they will be.

[Giantmoa]

you can also look into indian ringneck parakeets, just as another species to consider. I don't know about their noise level but they aren't supposed to be clingy birds.