Moving out of province with BCC

[ebesq]

Hi all!

I've had my black capped conure, Bertrand Russell, since January. He was born in September 2014. He's my best little buddy, and I'm definitely not going anywhere without him.

I'm very likely leaving my current city (St. John's, Newfoundland, on the far east of the east coast) and moving to Toronto at the end of this summer. My plan is to drive there with as much stuff as I can fit into my car, and ship a few things once I get there.

I'm trying to decide what method of travel would be less stressful for my little Bertie. The drive will take anywhere from 5 days to a week, because I'm planning on taking a friend and making a road trip out of it. My options are to take Bertie in a travel cage, or have him shipped up to me once I've arrived. I'm looking for opinions on what you all think would be the least stressful option for him.

Thanks in advance, guys!

 

[JamesC]

I've traveled with my birds up to 3 days journey and they all handle it fine. Lot of peeping and unhappiness and climbing around the travel cage at the beginning of each day. But once they are settled in after 15 minutes or so on the road there is no problem. Just take frequent breaks and share food & water. If in a secure rest stop, take him out for some destress time with you.

With my guys, I brought along towels and covered half the cages. It gave them a place that they could go if they felt overwhelmed by the experience and it gave them shelter from direct sunlight. Plus it blocked some vision so things like trucks going by would not give them a fright.

I would definitely be in favor of taking him with you rather than shipping. Strangers, airplanes, whatever. I can't imagine it being anything other than a terrifying experience for him. At least traveling with you, he can be grounded in your presence during the journey.

 

[dragonlady2]

I agree with James C...We moved from Ontario to Sakatchewan...took all 13 birds, 5 cats and two dogs in a caravan and drove. We spent nights in a hotel. Made sure that there was fresh food in the cages during the drive for hydration. The birds did great...my Ekkie was on the bottom of the pile and every now and again he would call out "hi". I made sure they had rope perches and gave them many treats during the day. I was happy to have them with me and I believe they were happier to be with us. Good luck...no matter what you decide.

 

[mh434]

Shipping would be tremendously stressful for a bird, IMHO. When they travel with you, they're with their mate, and they have the comfort of you being near to protect them. I've traveled with birds by boat, by car, etc. and, as long as you're near & they can see you, they're happy little campers.