this is Coco and Allie my grandaughter

[dusty]

enjoying a little shade

[Michael]

Hi, I hate to sound like a jerk by responding this way, but my eyes just pop out of their sockets when I see a parrot taken outside like this. Now I do realize there are some people with expertise in parrots way beyond mine that freefly them outside (but usually they'll mention that's the case when posting such a photo). On the other hand there are people who are unaware that a clipped or unclipped parrot could fly off outside (and if not found soon, quite likely die). So I'm only telling you this out of concern for the bird's safety and no blame on your part.

I see some primary feathers on the parrot but your profile says no to flight, so I assume the parrot was previously clipped but some feathers may have grown back rather than a freeflight parrot. Even if the parrot is unaccustomed to flight and stays put from habit of being clipped so long, under the right circumstances outside it could still fly off. Instead of repeating what I previously wrote about clipped parrots outdoors, I will just refer you to the previous time I explained this:

viewtopic.php?f=7&t=5422&p=35708#p35691

Even if the parrot isn't used to flying or is very loyal to you, there are situations beyond our control that could startle them into flying off. Someone on this forum almost lost a clipped parrot to such a fly off. My recommendation (whether the parrot flies or not) is to use a carrier, outdoor cage, or harness. I don't mean to spoil the thrill of posting a photo and I hope you continue to post photos in the future. I just wanted to point this out for the sake of safety and if you have any further questions feel free to ask.

[Vicki5280]

What a sweet picture!

[dusty]

thank you vickie

micheal what you don't see in the picture is the 400 acres of barren field around my house...there is no where for her to go...she never leaves me even when startled, but you are right there could be occasion when it could happen...she was clipped but i am letting them grow back...thank you very much for your concern....it is greatly appreciated

dusty

[Michael]

Right, you have a lower likelihood of it getting too far but be careful. I know people who've lost African Greys. They tend to fly high and not come back when they panic as opposed to like Senegals who seek out their favorite person. I have the same problem with Truman who is more comparable to an African Grey. If the parrot flaps and flaps in panic (especially with primaries) wind can drift it far away. Also be careful about predators where you live. If there's so much field, there are bound to be mice. And where there are mice there are hawks, etc. Not too likely to take on a Grey but a good sized Red Tail could take out a Grey so you must be aware of the risks before you bring the bird outside (harness or not).

Very nice place you have there. With a little thought and effort, I'm sure you can devise a very fun and safe way for having the parrots outdoors.

[dusty]

how is this for safety....lol

dusty

[zazanomore]

How old is the cage? Is there rust on it?

If so, than I suggest buying a new "outside" cage.

I hope you don't feel like we're putting you down or anything.

I see you are in Ontario, if you need any help looking for Canadian stores for supplies, just ask, I know quite a few really great stores.

[Michael]

From what I've heard (and I don't really know for sure) is that rust isn't necessarily dangerous to the parrot. As long as the structure is sound, rust shouldn't be toxic. If anyone else knows otherwise let me know.