A Small Question. Need lots of answers.

[hannah aka BirdBananaz]

I still dont know whether im even getting a bird or not, but does anyone know, if I wanted to get one, where to find one. Pet shop? Ebay? Breeders? I just want to know the best way, if I do end up getting one.

[kiwi]

Breeders all the way for me

Get a hand reared one - the breeder will be able to tell you what their personality is, it will be extra cuddly and will have learnt some basic manners, won't mind being handled which makes life alot easier for trips to the vet. They may be a little more expensive than a pet shop but worth every one of those extra pennies! Pet shops in my experience (UK) buy their birds from dealers who catch them in the wild or unhandled baby birds, save yourself some heartache and don't buy from a pet shop, apart from the odd occasion - birds from pet shops don't tame and even if they do you are limited in what they'll let you do with them.

[debra]

I agree. Breeders are the best way to get a tamed bird. Not all breeders charge more than pet shops. Around here where I live, the pet stores are more expensive than most breeders. Almost twice as much! Besides, if you have questions about your bird after you received it, then the breeder is there to help you while the stores just tell you to go to your vet.

Breeders -- your best bet.

[hannah]

Thanks Guys! This really helps me out! I live in Plattsburgh, so the price difference between breeders and shops might vary. Its great to have the opinion of an experienced buyer though. Thanks again!

[Liz]

I know everyone else said the same, but here's one more vote for breeders. Not only are the birds usually better cared for and easier to tame, the breeder will have known your future pet since hatching, and can give you tips accordingly. Pet stores get in hundreds of birds and then sell them away, they never really get to know them.

Just so you know, a cheap bird almost never is a bargain. When choosing your new friend, paying a bit more can make a huge difference.

[Blaine]

I agree completely with Budgiebuddy. I didn't do enough looking around before I got Juniper, and got him from a store. Also, some say they handfeed, but are really just line feeding them. Maybe find a bird society or website for your area, and ask if they recommend any specific breeders.