Looking for new parrot

[lwis]

I find that you can make some blanket generalizations about the different parrot species, but it comes down to the individual bird.
I would also recommend spending some time at a rescue if you have one near by. In saying that, I would keep in mind that it might take a little time for an older bird (or young bird for that matter) to open up to you. I volunteer at a place that rehomes birds and I am finding more and more that there are no "inherently mean or bad birds". Since I began volunteering there, 9 months ago, I have seen several birds that were once deemed 'mean birds' become lovely, gentle birds after a little bit of time and trust building. It really upsets me when people write off and give up on a bird just because they label it with a negative personality that they think is constitutional. "He's moody", or "she's a biter" are not good reasons to dismiss a parrot from having any companion potential.
Sorry, that rant was sort of unrelated to your initial question, but I had to get that off my chest when discussing rehomed birds. I would suggest you spend some time with as many birds of different ages and species as you can to find which one would work best with the dynamics of your life.

[ridmaster]

Thanks for the suggestions everyone. I went to the parrot shop yesterday at lunch and their advice was similar to the advice here.

His suggestion was to meet as many birds as possible. He also warned me against making species generalizations. His suggestion was to keep an open mind about species and have a general list of species that might be what I'm interested in and then start meeting young birds coming up for sale until we find the right one. The light bulb went off for me when he introduced me to a Timneh that seemed perfect for us and then to another one that was the same age that wasn't remotely what I was looking for.

I got to meet a couple of Timnehs and a female Eclectus. They expect to have pionus,Senegals, and others over the next 4 or 5 months so I think I'll just keep dating until I find the right one.

I haven't had much luck finding a parrot rescue, but there is a North West Exotic Bird Society that meets once a month. I'm going to try to visit their February meeting.

[liz]

Your on the right track.
We are hear for a sounding board if you need us.
Good luck finding your friend.

[Polarn]

I'm sorry if my previouse post came forth as too much of generalization of species, wasn't really ment like that, although i do think there is some characteristics that are stereotypical for different species, however the individual playes a greater part, and I do beleive the individual of a bird is somewhat, if not much, affected by its owner, especially during its first years.

[aisell]

Eclectus parrots generally don't have favorites. They are polygamous birds and do not bond exclusively. They love everyone in the family who take a bit of time with them.

They have a very specific diet, and their scream is very loud, although they don't sçream that much usually.

Just an idea you might want to look into.

I'm totally. This the bird you need

[ridmaster]

I made a couple of trips to the store, the second time with my family and we fell in love with a female Solomon Island Eclectus parrot. She seems perfect for us. after an hour in the store she was comfortable with us and was picking at buttons on my son's shirt. I put the deposit down on her today. She'll be weened and ready to go home in 3 or 4 weeks.

Thank you again for all the guidance on this.

[GlassOnion]

Congratulations! Have you researched on the female Ekkie hormones? They are known to be extremely aggressive when they hit maturity and careful handling is required to overcome it.

[ridmaster]

The store manager mentioned it. I ordered an Eclectus book today so I have time to read up on the details between now and then. Thanks for the heads up.

[FutureDVM]

Congrats! She is beautiful.

[GlassOnion]

If you haven't yet, go on www.landofvos.com It's a bible for Ekkie owners apparently, and there is SO much specific Ekkie info on there!!!