What parrot is right for me?

[Evyllchyld]

Hey all, I'm sure this question is very common but I was wondering if you all could guide me in the right direction as to which type of parrot is best for me.

A while ago I was looking for a new parrot but the timing was bad, so here I am again looking for a new pet. I have done quite a bit of research on many different types. I currently work at home, and live by myself. This won't be forever though, so I need a bird that would be ok if I'm not home during the day. I'm looking for a generally "quiet" (I know there is no such thing), so I guess less loud than the average parrot. I live in an apartment, so cage size is an issue. Please keep that in mind. I'm not concerned with parrot size though, and I would actually prefer a larger parrot. I should add that a talking bird doesn't matter at all to me, I'm looking for personality.

I have done reading up on these parrots mostly:
Eclectus
African Grey's
Toucans(I know they aren't a parrot)
Conures
Macaws
Mini Macaws

From what I have read, it seems like a toucan would be best for me as far as noise is concerned. They aren't able to screech or talk. The downside would be that they require large cages. Second would be the Grey's, I read on more than one site that they do well (better than other parrots) in apartments and although they talk, they have a tendency to be less noisy.

I don't mind whistling, talking or chirping. The screeching however is the only problem I have.

Thanks in advance for suggestions and any help, and please feel free to correct me on anything I wrote.

Edit: I forgot to add that I know every parrot's personality is different, and although a type may be generally quiet. I could get a screamer.

 

[Auggie's Dad]

Welcome,

I'm always happy to try to field these questions, as long as they're well posed: meaning particularly that you mention what matters to you, what doesn't, and what you can offer, which I think you did pretty well.

I am curious though if you have previous experience caring for a bird.

Toucans sound interesting.... I'd love one! Are they available where you are? I think there could be a lot of upsides to a toucan, but also one significant downside: they are rare enough (at least if you are in the US) that it will be hard to find advice or services for them.

If noise is an issue genus arratinga conures are OUT. Yes, they can vary, and everyone who knows parrots may know that one arratinga who is very quite - but on the whole they are the loudest parrots there are. (FYI this genus includes suns, jendays, duskies, and several other common pet conures.)

Greys require a lot: a lot of attention, and usually experience. There are plenty of successful first time bird owners who get greys, but I would not encourage it - I'd recommend greys for experienced parrot owners. Additionally they require attention, so your current schedule may be great for them, but as you noted this may change in the future. If you end up working long days it would be pretty rough for a grey alone in an apartment. Much of this would apply equally wells to macaws as well.

I think an eclectus may make a good option, but also one not on your list that perhaps should be is a caique. These are medium sized parrots, not particularly loud (relatively speaking), they can talk a bit, but their main draw is their playful personality - they are the clowns of the bird world. Going on what you are looking for in a bird these should not be overlooked.

Hope that helps. And if you do get a toucan you better come back and tell us all about it.

 

[Evyllchyld]

Thanks for your response. As to your question if I have had previous experience raising a bird. I had a dusky conure that I bought when it was a baby. I had to hand feed it with a syringe everyday and get it to eat regular food once the time was right (thankfully that process wasn't hard). He was a spur of the moment purchase (as in it all happened in a week) so all the information I got was from the employee at the pet shop, which consequently turned out to be wrong information. I was 19 at the time of the purchase, once he hit (what I believe to be) sexual maturity his screeching got unbearable to the point where that was all that he did. I tried numerous techniques over the course of probably a year to get his screeching to lessen (not stop completely) with no success. I was on numerous forums and tried everything everyone suggested and he just wouldn't stop unless he was on me. Finally my health was deteriorating from the constant migraines and stress he was causing me. I would get tunnel vision and almost pass out. I made the incredibly tough decision to give him to a family who could take him. (I'll spare that story, but I assure you he went to an amazing home) So yes, I do have experience. Although my first experience wasn't too great, I'm preparing myself better this time by reading up on my options that would be best for me. Since joining this forum two years ago I have learned a lot of what I did wrong with raising him. This may sound odd, but I don't see another pet for me. Please note, that along with the issues I was having with him I was also having other issues going on in my life that needed to be dealt with.

Toucans aren't available around me, but I found a very nice breeder out in California that will ship one to me if that's the route I decide to go. Like you mention, due to their rarity there isn't a lot of information (as I have found out) that I can turn to if need be. I do have a bird spe******t around me though, that I brought my last parrot to and she comes with high recommendations.

As far as the grey's are concerned, that's why I brought up my current schedule and what I'm assuming will be my future schedule. (a 9-5 job 40 hours a week or more) Giving them enough attention right now I know will never be an issue. But when I get another job where I have to leave the house, the parrot I choose will obviously get significantly less attention.

I absolutely LOVE the look of an eclectus, them along with the grey's have really stolen my heart. The reason why I haven't mentioned a caique is although I'm sure their personalities are fantastic and unparalleled to many other parrots, they just don't do anything for me in the looks department and I don't know why. They have amazing colors that are very vibrant and pop but for some reason I am just not drawn to them. Is that wrong of me?? lol I would also like a larger bird if possible.

I'm open to any other suggestions, and any help. Thanks for your input Auggie's Dad.

 

[Auggie's Dad]

...his screeching got unbearable to the point where that was all that he did. I tried numerous techniques over the course of probably a year to get his screeching to lessen (not stop completely) with no success. I was on numerous forums and tried everything everyone suggested and he just wouldn't stop unless he was on me. Finally my health was deteriorating from the constant migraines and stress he was causing me.

Yup, that's a dusky for ya.

 

[Evyllchyld]

Yup, that's a dusky for ya.

Yeah, as I figured out! lol. Too bad the lady at the pet store assured me that they weren't loud at all. I learned, which is why I'm here doing a lot of research this time.

 

[dakisgirls]

If you are going to be gone for most of the day, a solitary parrot isn't fro you as they will miss you all day long. Parrots are very social animals and need lots of attention (As you probably figured out from your previous experience!). Parrots that are housed together in flocks will usually learn to like you, but won't be lonely when you leave the house. A pair of budgies would be great, but if you aren't really a "hands on" person, finches are another great choice.

 

[Spiritbird]

I am the guardian for a Timneh african grey and a first time parrot owner but not bird. If you plan to be away from home frequently most parrots would not work for you especially the grey. They do need lots of your time otherwise you will have behavior problems like feather plucking. I too, as the previous member did, suggest parakeets. Most parrots need out of the cage time with you and exposure to new people and experiences. Good luck and I hope we all helped you in your decision.