Prospective Bird Owner

Hello, I have found this forum and it has many knowledgeable people here.

A month or so ago I was visiting my local pet store to pick up things for my rabbit and I got to meet a Meyers Parrot there, and I fell in love. I wish I could get that specific bird but it wouldn't be possible for me right now.

Since then I have been doing a lot of research and boy, do these pets seem like a handful! They're so beautiful though and are so nice once they get to know you, it seems worth the struggle.

I'm 17 and I'm going to go to an art college soon, so I won't be able to get a bird until at least my second year (if I can even afford it! haha) One thing I'm afraid of is that parrots seem to be very sensitive to chemicals, and I'm worried paint thinners, adhesives, paints, and such will hurt birdie. If that is so then I suppose a bird may not be right for me, sadly.

What do you think?

First off, make sure to not judge a entire species of bird by one that you me in person because they are all different Although since you've been doing your research you probably already know this lol. They are very sensitive, just make sure you aren't using any of those items anywhere near your bird. When I use paints I always make sure to use them downstairs in the kitchen while my bird is upstairs in my room(often with the window open). There's many great parrots out there, they are all high maintenance although some are a little higher then others. While researching you might find other species you are also interested in.

What art school are you going to go to? I'm working on my BFA in digital photography at Acadamy of art University in San Fransisco. It's a incredible school.

birds are like little kids each with their own personalities, very smart , they dive you mad sometimes but boy do they get under your skin ad you love them more then you ever expected to
they may be high maintenance but they are way worth it

Chemicals could be an issue with a pet bird, and they are a handful. I would really hesitate adding a bird at your age, as a second year (eventually) these birds are noisy and finding a place to live with one can be difficult. Owning your own home is the only way to have a bird without worry of eviction. At your age this would be a very large commitment, I always equate getting a parrot to be on the same level as getting married, its a lifetime commitment and is expensive and painful for everyone if it doesn't work out. If you are set on birds, visit as many as you can and maybe offer to house sit regularly for a parrot owner. This will give you experience, help out the owner, and give you an idea of what you are getting into. Good luck, birds are very enriching and well worth it for the right person.

its great that you are doing your research. even if you cant get one now you can always get one later in life, so dont give up. keep in mind, this is not a pet, its a two year old child with pliers on its mouth, but they are amazing and the best friend you will ever have! maybe start with a budgie or cockatiel, but meyers are great too . just visit a whole bunch and see which one gets along with you best, good luck!