A. Ask questions of the exhibitors, sellers, or breeders, BEFORE buying.....
| 1. Did you raise this bird? (There are differences) | 2. Do you own the parents? |
| 3. Is it closed banded with a traceable band? | 4. Was it incubator hatched? |
| 5. How old is it? | 6. How long will it live, given optimum conditions? |
| 7. How long have you had it? (If they did not raise it) | 8. What does it eat? |
| 9. What things are considered good for it to eat? |
10. What kind of cage is required? (Not just desirable, but absolutely needed) |
| 11. How noisy is it? (Noise can be relative, but it could also be a lease breaker) | 12. How difficult is it to maintain? (You can't go on vacation and leave the bird unattended) |
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13. Does it, or will it talk? (Ask for a definition of talk) |
14. Does it prefer men or women? (This is especially useful if buying an older bird) |
| 15. Is it or has it been sick? |
16. Has it ever been treated or seen by a vet? (Get the vets name and phone number) |
| 17. If so, for what problem? | 18. What is the temperament of this species? |
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19. Does it have any bad habits? (Nice to know before you purchase an older bird) |
20. WHY ARE YOU SELLING IT? (This applies to previously owned older birds) |
| 21. Do you know the sex of the bird? | 22. Are there any papers concerning the sex? |
| 23. Where did you purchase it? This is a question for individuals or brokers. |
24. Can you give me references? (At least one should be from a vet; check them) |
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B. Ask yourself these questions BEFORE buying:
| 1. Do I have time and dedication to give to this lovely creature? | 2. Do I have the facilities: (Hyacinths are beautiful, but do not fit apartment living.) |
| 3. Do I have the know-how or willingness to learn about the care through books, magazines, the net, or membership in an education-oriented caged bird club? | 4. Do I have the money, not only to buy, but to house and maintain the bird? |
C. When you are shopping:
| 1. Be careful about putting your fingers/hands in cages. Birds can bite. | 2. Ask before you pet the bird. Hands of affection do spread infection. | 3. DO NOT OPEN CAGES |
| 4. If you bring children, keep a close eye on them. | 5. Don't buy the first bird you see. Impulse buying is a way of life, but you are considering buying a life. Take your time and make sure the bird fits you and your lifestyle, and that you fit the bird. | 6. Have fun picking your life-long companion. |
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