When will my bird be ready?
Once your bird is weaned off formula, plus 3 to 5 days of refusal of formula then it can be picked up or shipped. We do not force any baby to wean therefore we cannot offer an exact date. That day is up to each individual bird.
What do you feed them?
During the weaning phase each bird is receiving formula, introduced to a baby chop consisting of grains and vegetables, Roudybush Maintenance Crumbles (pellets) plus fresh vegetables and fruits. Nuts and fruit aren't offered until the bird is regularly eating vegetables.
Do you send photos?
Yes, not only do we send photos regularly, but we will send diet/feeding changes. We will also send our recipe for baby chop. If you have messenger, we will also send video.
What if I'm out of town or busy when my bird is ready?
Although you will have a good idea closer to the end of weaning as we report to you daily, should you have other obligations we will continue to keep your bird(s) for a period of time. We charge $10 a day or $50 for a week per bird for additional time that you may need. These fees have to be paid up front or your bird(s) will not ship. The ONLY exception is if either of us is experiencing a natural disaster.
Who feeds my bird formula?
Only me (Jessica) will ever hand feed any baby unless there is an emergency then and only then will I reach out to a friend who is an established/experienced hand feeder for help.
Can I purchase and unweaned baby?
This option is available to only experienced hand feeders. Should you choose this option, part of the contract becomes null and void as we will not take responsibility for any accidents outside our home. No bird ships unweaned.
How do you socialize?
After each formula feeding, we handle all birds. Our goal is for them to be comfortable with hands, being on shoulders and around faces. In addition, we concentrate on touching feet, beaks and around the head. We gradually increase time spent with them as they grow and age. We encourage them to play with foot toys but will also be allowed to have play time in our playroom supervised as well as our juvenile section of the aviary. All birds will be introduced to play stands. We also want them to be comfortable with common household items/sounds and have the opportunity to be around other birds to socialize.
I have other birds; do you think they will get along?
We have no idea. Each bird is their own individual. They are often like humans in this regard. They either like each other, don't like each other or merely tolerate each other. Only time will tell, and you should always monitor when birds are out together.
Do you suggest getting more than one?
It is not necessary to get more than one at a time. You become their flock. Should you decide to get more than one from us during the same adoption, please let us know right away so we can take the appropriate actions on getting them used to one another (If purchasing as a pet).
What if something happens to me, do you buy them back?
No, we do not buy any bird back. Provided we have the room we will pay to have the bird(s) re-disease tested so it can come back to our home, then we can find a suitable home for your bird. If we don’t have the space to take on another bird, we can certainly try to help place the bird in a suitable home while still in your care. My suggestion is to have a plan in place in case an incident arises, such as a divorce, job change, loss of spouse/job, moving or any major event. It is ultimately your responsibility once you adopt as we see pets as our family and a long commitment being that they live for 25-30 years or longer. It's a good idea to introduce your bird(s) to a close friend or relative so they can get acquainted for any future purposes.
Do I really need a veterinarian?
It's highly recommended that you establish a veterinarian. Preferably an Avian/Exotics Veterinarian just in case an accident happens and so you can bring your bird(s) to at minimum an annual visit.
Do you clip/trim the wings before they leave you?
Yes, for pets, however we believe every bird should learn and understand how to use their wing muscles before we do any trimming. We do not trim to prevent flight, we trim to prevent accidents, so basically, they aren’t jet stealth flyers. We want at minimum for them to glide NOT fall. This means once the bird(s) reach your home that you should not let them go outside without a harness, in a travel carrier or cage because with the right flow of wind they can still fly away. If you want them trimmed further, please reach out to me for suggestions.
Do they talk already?
No, it is your job to teach them to talk. They are far too young to talk upon weaning and don't get your expectations too high as not all birds talk even if they have the ability. It should be seen as a perk if they eventually do. Both males and females have the ability to talk.
Which is better male or female?
We love them both. In our findings within our own flock, females tend to be a bit cuddlier but are more destructive so they need more things to chew and forage and they can lay eggs. Our males are a bit more outgoing but can have a jealous side. Females only develop shadow rings and male get true neck rings around age 2 with the exception of Albino and Recessive Pied (Hillerman). Those males don't have the typical neck ring. Both sexes go through a hormonal period yearly.
If I adopt 2, what sex should they be?
This greatly depends on your goals and interests. Any way you see it, you should be prepared to have separate cage spaces or a space large enough, like a large aviary. You certainly don't want brother and sister mating. You NEVER want to put a male in a female's cage. Females are very cage territorial and are known to kill to protect their cage.
I've never owned a bird before. Is this a bad starter bird?
In our own opinion there isn't such a thing as a starter bird. Knowledge is key. Visit someone who has this species of bird, visit a rescue, research information and/or join a group to learn others experiences. Our birds are highly socialized and get plenty of daily attention to be as sweet as they are. Don’t buy a bird based on our videos. They require a ton of daily interaction and stimulation, so if you are out of the home all day or travel a lot then maybe this species isn't for you.
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