Some Questions About Parrots

[happycat]

Im kinda new to parrots and i dont know that much (i do know some though!) And i have some questions (sorry for some of the dumb questions i ask xD) 1st of all can you keep 2 different types of parrots together? (not like a macaw and a budgie anything) But like a lovebird and parrotlet or Linnie and cockatiel? Also do some parrots really like having other parrots around (so it would be best to get 2 or more) while some you should only keep one of? Can you bring parrots outside? Should you clip a parrots wings? And,should i never ever let my cats be around the parrots (one is actually scared of my dwarf hamster while the other killed 2 of them :<) Or is it okay to let them be around each other some times? Id be watching of course and they wouldnt be too close (not near my killer of two hammies cat though) I think i know the answer to some of these (like the cat one) But just making sure. (also not sure if this is in the right place.Lol srry if it isnt XD) Thanks

[lwis]

I think it is great that you are asking any questions before you get a bird. Many people don't bother to learn much about parrots before getting one, and consequently end up having problems due to a lack of understanding, unrealistic expectations, and other reasons of course.
I can only offer my opinion with regards to your questions, so here they are.

1. I would not house two birds of different species in the same cage, though I have seen a bonded lovebird and budgie who could not be separated.
If you were to get two different birds, I would definitely get them their own cages. Even if you got two birds of the same species. Form what I hear, it is easier to tame/train birds that are not given the chance to pair bond with another bird first...makes sense.

2. Since most parrots live in flocks, I would think that the majority of them would like the company of another bird, but there are some older birds out there that have not been socialized with other birds and do not know how to act around them and become aggressive. In saying that, you do not have to get two birds. If you have enough time to spend with one, then I would stick to that, at least until you gain some bird experience and form a bond with the one. Then, perhaps if you think you have the time and funds to devote to another bird and you think your bird would benefit from another one, then get a second. But there is no guarantee that the two will be buddies.

3. You can bring a bird outside...with the proper training (on both your part and the bird's), and a harness.

4. Please don't clip a bird's wings. Opinions vary on this topic, but the argument for not clipping is significantly stronger for me.
When we got our bird, he came to us clipped (he is currently growing his wings back and building muscle). He would try to fly but obviously, due to the lack of feathers, would clumsily flutter to the ground. He just looked so frustrated, and it seemed wrong to take away such a huge part of what birds are meant to do. Their whole anatomy is developed for flight. Their muscles, respiratory system, brains, and more, from what I've read, only function optimally if they can fly and have the opportunity to do so. A bird with full flight is truly beautiful. To watch one fly with such grace and precision makes me wonder how someone could take that away.
The argument for clipping would only be justified to me, if I thought it were just to cut off a dog's legs for fear that it would run away. Okay, so clipping wings does not 'hurt' a bird like cutting legs off would hurt a dog, but it can be very traumatic for them.
So that was a slightly dramatic rant, and I understand that most people who clip their birds wings do so with, what they believe to be, the best intentions, but I am firmly in favour of full flight.

5. You know the cat answer.
I have four cats and there is a door that is closed separating them from from my bird when he is out. This door is glass and it drives the cats nuts. My bird loves dancing for them and would love to play, but I am pretty sure the cats want to eat him. One of them is scared of him and I will let her walk through the room if he is out, but I watch them both like a hawk.

Hope that helps. Just keep researching. Good luck.

[Michael]

There have been studies of cats raised in unison with mice and taught to be friends. Eventually the cat would still inevitably kill the mouse. Even if learning can suppress instinct, it only takes one inopportune moment when reflex supersedes.

[GlassOnion]

Agreed with everything above. The danger about mixing multiple species is that they can kill each other. I know a lovebird who ate off a cockatiel's toes

I also agree on keeping it flighted. Happier, better exercised bird = less behavioural problems.

[pennyandrocky]

hi happycat, you are asking great questions. i'm also against clipping my birds fly back an forth all day between my living room and the man cave they love it, my greencheek taught me a whistle when i want him to fly to me.my cockatoo is a feather chewer but is now fully feathered since gaining her flight,she was clipped by previous owner. i also have a cat and a dog both have always been around birds since birds came first never been a problem the greencheek climbs on the dog when she's sleeping,and uses her for a landing strip. my cockatoo is now getting used to the dog and cat. birds also do need to spend time outside,i take them out in cages but i'm hoping to attach an aviary to my back porch so they can come in and out when they want. good luck with your search i know you'll find the right bird and be a great fid parent.