Things to consider before buying a bird

Affordability: The price of on parrot varies in large bounds in dependence with the species. Therefore, keep in mind your budget before deciding to purchase a bird.

Space Requirement: Larger birds and even some of the small ones are very active physically and need big cages and space in which to play.

Our free time for the bird: Birds are intelligent, playful and social creatures. We need to give proper time for the bird. Playing with the bird, feeding, taking care of the bird and its cage etc are some of the important activities for which we need to spend quality time. Don't buy a bird if you think that you will soon get bored of it.

One kind of bird might require more attention than you can give while another variety of bird might be perfect to fit your family's busy schedule.

Also consider the fact that birds live fairly long. A small parrot cockatiel lives for 20 years and more. Amazona or African grey parrot can live for 50, 60 and there are documented cases for birds that lived up to the respectable age of 100 years. We need to assess whether we can be able to devote our time daily for such long periods of time. It is not unusual to inherit birds from previous generations.

Noise that the bird makes: Budgies and cockatiel are comparatively quiet. They are suitable to look after in a flat. Cockatoos are having loud and harsh voice and are considered very noisy.

The African grey parrot tends to be one of comparatively non-noisy parrots. Certainly, there are individual differences between birds.

No one will be happy with a bird that makes loud noises throughout the night.

Beak capacity: Birds with strong beaks, when you let them out of their cages to play, can damage furniture, books, etc.

Birds can be messy: Potential bird owners should know that birds can be messy, will waste a good portion of their food, and will most likely have a wonderful time launching various titbits out from between the bars of their cages to the floor below.

Special Food needs: You need to be aware about the special food needs of the bird. Purchase such bird only when you can afford such special food and such food is readily available in your locality.

Do some research: Visiting a local pet store can be a great place to begin gaining knowledge. Don't be afraid to ask the store workers any questions you have about owning a bird or about the differences between varieties of birds. Learn as much as you can before you make your final choice.

Take the time to educate your entire family on the bird. After you have taken the time to learn, teach your family important facts about the bird and about the needs the bird will have when it becomes a part of your family. Especially your children need to have a proper understanding that a pet bird will not be all fun and games.