Looking for a New Bird?

Are you considering adding a feathered friend to your family? Adding a new bird to your home can be an exciting experience, but it's important to make sure you are getting a healthy and well-cared-for bird. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process and help ensure you bring home a happy and thriving avian companion.

Look for a Reliable Source

I am asked quite often by people who are looking to purchase their first bird or add a bird to their existing flock if I can recommend where to go. It can be a challenge to find good sources and hopefully, my suggestions can help you find a healthy bird, whether you are looking for a baby parrot or looking to adopt a rescued/rehomed parrot. Although I no longer breed birds, I did for many years, and even participated in National Bird Shows both as an exhibitor and as a Show Secretary. I have accepted many abused and handicapped birds from Veterinarians and other animal groups into my closed sanctuary, and have rehomed quite a few birds over the years due to owner health, abandonment, death of an owner, or other issues. Because of the many years I have spent working with parrots, I feel I have some experience I can share in what makes a good breeder or rescue.   

How to Begin the Search

1. Contact local veterinarians in your area and ask if they have any breeders, bird store sellers, or rescues, who are their clients that they might recommend. The reverse also works, if you find a bird seller, breeder, or rescue, ask them for a vet reference and call the vet office to check with them. The veterinarian's office won't be able to tell you any client-privileged information, but they usually can say yay or nay whether they refer potential buyers to that breeder, seller, or rescue. When I raised birds I always had babies vet checked while being handfed and once again before going to a new home. Responsible bird rescues should be able to provide a veterinarian's name they use.

2. You can google (or use any search engine) for a local bird club near you. Often breeders are members of local bird clubs. Bird clubs are great for networking with other bird lovers, finding a good avian vet, and hopefully getting to know some great bird breeders or rehoming rescues in the area.

3. Even a Facebook or other online bird group might give you some info. If you join an online bird group you can do a search within the group for a breeder by name if you have one, or just a general search for breeders. Your search is going to show both good and bad, so just keep in mind not everything on Facebook or any online source is not always accurate so verify however you can the info you find.

4. Always prioritize purchasing a bird that has been vet-checked. A vet check ensures that the bird is in good health and free from any underlying medical issues that can be detected by examination or standard tests. This step is crucial in preventing the spread of diseases and ensuring the well-being of your new feathered friend. Getting a health guarantee from a local breeder is a big plus. It should allow you to have the bird vet checked within a certain time frame, and if a health issue that is not easily resolved occurs, willing to take the bird back and refund your money. 

Should you have a bird shipped to you?

While some breeders offer shipping options for purchasing birds, it is generally recommended to avoid shipping birds whenever possible. The stress of transportation can be overwhelming for birds and may have negative effects on their health and well-being. Whenever feasible, opt to pick up the bird in person to minimize stress and ensure a smoother transition to its new home. I know some sellers do ship and have no problems, however that's something I was never comfortable with. I had a customer once drive 6 hours to meet and adopt one of my babies. They spent the day getting to know the baby and allowing me to get to know them a little and how well they interacted with birds in general. So if it's feasible for you, think outside your local area and how far you are willing to drive. 

Adopting a bird from a rescue

Adopting a bird from a rescue can be a wonderful way to provide a home for a bird in need. Many rescue organizations thoroughly vet their birds, ensuring they are healthy and well-cared for before being adopted out. However, it's essential to inquire about the bird's health history and any potential health or behavioral issues it may have. Ask for any available medical records and consult with a veterinarian to ensure the bird is in good health. Most rescue birds are not babies but that doesn't mean you won't find the absolute perfect bird for you. A bird does not have to be a baby to love you and become a wonderful member of your family. A good bird rescue is going to help you find the right bird based on your experience and home environment. 

Summary

Take your new feathered friend to your avian vet even if the bird was vet checked before you received him or her. This allows you to verify the health of the bird as well as establish the bird with your vet. 

I hope these tips help you make an informed decision when purchasing a new bird and setting the foundation for a happy and healthy relationship with your feathered companion. Remember, the well-being of the bird should always be the top priority when bringing a new avian friend into your home.