Why did I choose a Senegal Parrot? For over ten years I've been very interested in African Grey Parrots. I've read numerous books, articles and web sites pertaining to African Greys. I went to specialty bird and pet stores looking at African Greys. I was more interested in Congos, than Timnehs.
While visiting various stores, I saw many amazing birds besides African Greys. I saw the colors of Sun and Jenday Conures. The spirit and activity of White-bellied and Black-headed Caiques. The magnificence of Macaws while screaming and flapping on their play gym. The cuddleliness of Cockatoos. I heard the chattiness and words spoken by Amazons. The spunkiness of Parrolets and Love Birds. The variety and friendliness of Budgies and Cockatiels. I could go on and on about these and all the other parrots and birds I was able to see. All of them are great birds and make wonderful additions to a family. So, why did I choose a Senegal?
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How could you not want this adorable looking Senegal Parrot? |
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I chose a Senegal because in my research it seemed that a Senegal and I were the best fit for each other. I wanted a parrot that I was confident in my ability to meet its requirements and needs. In no specific order, here is what led to my decision:
My Avian Experience -- I've never owned a parrot before. I've owned canaries and currently own a pair of Star Finches. The needs of a parrot are much greater than my other birds. Though a Senegal is not considered the best first parrot to own, it has fewer (or less demanding) needs than some other birds I was considering.
Size -- The bigger the bird, usually the bigger its cage, play gym and needed general space (for feathers, waste, and other debris) requirements. I'm one of those people who don't believe that you get the smallest cage suggested for an animal. I always strive for the better options for my pets' health and a positive life experience. Based on these needs for a head-to-tail, nine-inch long Senegal Parrot, it fit my available space best. (Learn about my cage on Page 8.)
Noise -- I wanted a bird who would make a little noise, but not bother the neighbors. Senegals are considered one of the quieter parrots. They still can be noisy, but not to the extent that some other birds are capable of producing noise. Compared to some other parrots I heard when I was in various bird stores, the Senegals were much quieter. Needless to say, within ten minutes of bringing my bird home and placing him in his cage, I heard the loudest, piercing call the first time I left the room. I quickly learned what a Senegal contact call is about. I didn't believe my calm, quiet baby could produce such a loud sound.
Talking Ability -- I wanted a bird that was capable of talking. Senegals are known to talk.
Life Span -- Many parrots live for 70 years or more. Senegals have around a 30 year life span. I wanted a bird that I was less likely to worry about me passing away before it did.
Dust -- I have allergies that react to animal dander and dust, among other allergins. Some parrots produce a large amount of powder from their feathers. Senegal Parrots are not known to produce a lot of powder from their feathers.
Parrot Bites -- One look at some of those beaks as they crack nuts and I don't want to get bit. Senegals, being a smaller bird with a smaller beak, would probably not bite as hard. The reality is that most parrots have the ability to deliver a strong bite and draw blood.
Activity Level -- I didn't want a couch potato. I wanted a bird that would be entertaining to watch in its daily activities. I read numerous times that Senegals were little acrobats and full of energy.
Friendliness/Cuddleliness -- I wanted a parrot that wanted to interact with me. Senegals would. I wanted a bird that enjoyed a head scratch. Senegals do. Several times I read how Senegals would lay on their back in your hand and play. This all sounded great to me.
Just bring that lens a little bit closer and I can get it.
If you've never had a parrot before or even if you have, it's important to realize how special your bird is and what he might have gone through before being with you. These links may help you realize what you will face or have faced with a companion parrot. Some parts are serious, some parts are funny.
Throw Away Bird -- there are some typos on this site, but you'll understand the story.
