Should I get my lovebird a companion?

[maryyy361]

I have had my 3 year old lovebird, Eleanor for a year now. I rescued her from a bad breeding situation but she was with 2 other lovebirds. Since getting her, she has become very good with me but wants so badly to be friends with the boys but Charlie has no interest and Major and Tango are happy with each other.

I'm thinking of getting another female lovebird but I've heard of that not going well. Does anyone have any experience with this kind of problem? I don't want her to be lonely, but I also don't want to lose the bond she has made with me.

Mary

 

[haleyd]

I don't have specific experience with this, but I do know that if you really want to keep your bond with her then it's best not to get another bird for her. She will love that bird more than she will ever love you, and the bond will never be the same. It's like how people will always choose people over a monkey. You just want to be with your own kind in the long run.
Although she may be "lonely" it doesn't mean she's unhappy by any means, and more socialization or toys can often fix the lonely looks.
Also, only ever get a bird if you truly want another bird. Never buy a bird because your other bird needs one- the bird isn't the one who has to care for it in the long run lol, and if your baby happened to bond to a little devil, then you're stuck haha.

 

[maryyy361]

I get that, but I'm not with her 24/7. And she can hear and see my boys and will just sit at one side of the cage and watch them all day. It's sad and I'm just worried I'm not giving her what she needs.

 

[haleyd]

Ultimately it's up to you, it's kind of like a win lose situation no matter what decision you make. In one instance, you still have a great bond with your girl but she feels lonely in terms of bird affection- and in the other you may lose your companion but she will have a 24'7 friend to keep her company.
Nobody can really gauge what's best in your situation besides yourself. Best wishes and I hope everything turns out for the best either way!

 

[walterbyrd]

I asked this question myself, a while back, and got some interesting replies. See link below:

http://www.parrotforums.com/lovebirds/67447-should-i-get-my-lovebird-companion.html