I was a dog-person.
And I have lost no enthusiasm for our canine friends.
"Man's best friend", Who can argue with that? They are fun-loving, intelligent and loyal and will always have a big place in my heart.
And cats- independent, aloof, mysterious, and yet warm hearted and comforting companions.
But what about parrots? At one time, in my ignorance of birds, I had them ranked about par with reptiles in terms of intelligence and social graces.
(No offense to reptiles, who have many of their own wonderful characteristics!) Lizards with feathers I assumed.
I was so wrong! A friend of mine introduced me to her flock of avian friends.
I was awakened to their deep intelligence, their playful nature, and the passionate emotions and the social bonding they can have with their human companions.
I was hooked immediately and became an avid "bird-person", (parrots in particular, but birds in general suddenly came to light as individuals and personalities...
I never looked at a songbird or even a chicken the same way!) For the past decade I have been hosting a wonderful, affectionate, gentle and now 30 year old African grey parrot named Sammo.
That's 30 years old in bird-years..
..
which by the way is the same formula we use for human-years.
My bird has never failed to amaze me with his affection, cleverness, humorous antics, gentleness and the quality of his company.
Just his presence seems to have a healing effect on my soul.
His big yellow eyes are wonderfully expressive and he always seems keenly interested in what I am doing and my emotional well-being.
But is a parrot right for you? Do your research on the many different species, from the tiny parrotlet to the large and colorful macaw- which would fit into your home and lifestyle best? And most of all, spend some time with these birds before committing to the responsibility of being a parrot owner, especially the particular bird you are considering.
Learn to see things as a bird does, and realize the differences in mindset they have from our mammalian friends.
Here are some important considerations for those considering including a parrot to their family: 1) A healthy parrot can have a lifespan of 20-100 years, depending on the species.
So if you are considering getting a parrot, think in terms of a lifetime commitment! Being one pet that may very well outlive you, it is wise to pre-arrange for their care with someone familiar with the these special critters should the unforeseen happen.
2) Parrots are highly social animals.
Some tend to attach to one person above other members of a household and become possessive of them.
They may also prefer one gender over the other, and they may be hostile to anyone they do not accept into their "inner-circle".
Many of these behaviors and symptoms can be remedied with the proper training, and if possible a "trial" period of a week or two to observe how the bird will fit into it's new home and family is highly suggested.
Children and other pets should be introduced under controlled circumstances, and never be allowed alone with a new bird.
3) Ranking in intelligence with chimpanzees and dolphins, parrots require a constant variety of mental stimulation and interaction.
Birds who are neglected can become mentally and emotionally unstable, depressed and may descend into hostile or self-destructive behaviors.
Ask yourself if your lifestyle allows you to spend a number of hours each day with your bird, and not leaving her caged or alone for extended periods.
Though some birds can do fine for a limited amount of hours alone, a person who works at home may have the ideal situation.
4) Messy birds! Expect them to toss much of their food on the floor and in their cage, shred anything shreddable with their beaks, or throw toys just to watch them fall on the floor.
Of course their will be bird-poop, though they can be trained to do their business in designated areas.
They shed feathers, and some can be expected to have considerable amounts of dander (feather-dust).
Prepare to clean after them constantly, though none of this has to be overwhelming if you keep on top of it! 5) NOISE! In addition to a potential for a high vocabulary, most parrots have a considerable vocal-range and can generate some shocking decibels.
So take into account your home acoustics and the possible reaction of those who may be in earshot.
Screaming and noise behaviors can be alleviated through proper training, but just remember most birds will not come fully programmed and may express themselves passionately with their voice.
6) Diet.
Parrots are omnivorous in nature.
A diet of strictly bird seeds is not healthy and can lead to health problems and shortened lifespan.
A quality parrot pellet diet is a good base, but supplement in much the same way as you would a healthy human diet.
Fresh vegetables, fruit, whole grains and pastas, even a very limited amount of meats, eggs and cheese are allowed and recommended.
Avoid salt, fats, and certain foods like chocolate and avocado are very toxic to parrots.
7) Environment.
Parrots need a comfortable space to call their own, and freedom to spend time outside the cage or perched on top of it.
A happy parrot actually loves his cage, and is not imprisoned in it but sees it as a home, a personal space and shelter.
Make sure the cage fits the size of bird, and he has plenty of room to spread his wings, play and explore.
A centrally located placement in the home allows the parrot to watch what is going on with family members, and keep the bird feeling included in involved in daily activities.
These are just a very few points to keep in mind for potential parrot-people.
And yes they do talk, you may be pleasantly surprised if you expect random repetition, these wise birds can use many phrases and words in context and they quickly learn what words and noises inspire reaction and laughter from people.
Even if your parrot never learns a single word in English, they still have a excellent capacity to communicate through noises, behaviors and gestures...
for humans who learn to listen and learn from their birds.
Many who have parrots compare the experience to having 2 to 4 year old child- with many of the same trials and delights! It takes a special kind of person to live with these magical feathered spirits, but only parrot-people know the richness and joy that these birds bring to our lives.