Hand Feeding

I feel this subject must be addressed as often as possible. Frequently, during Internet discussions and in the business, the topic comes up.Most often, it is followed by HELP, I just purchased a baby Macaw, Cockatoo, Grey, etc.How much do I feed it, what kind of food, how much should the baby weigh, is it normal for the baby to throw up, the breeder/store said she/he should be weaned now, I stopped hand feeding but she/he is losing weight? You get the idea. Then come the heartbreaking stories of people who thought they knew what they were doing or were given incorrect information along with the five minute hand feeding lessons. Every week, on the average, there are sad stories of babies lost due to caring people who were sent home with a baby on hand feeding. Not to forget that the vet bills have now surpassed any savings the owner thought they were getting by taking an unweaned baby.Who would you like to see hand feed your baby? Someone who hand feeds year round that has a trained eye for catching any potential problems, or a novice? Just a note on getting a deal.....the longer a breeder/store has a parrot, the more overhead it costs them on feeding and care, providing they are supplying the birds with lots of toys, fresh food, cuddles, and a clean environment. Just something to think about, when people are telling you how easy it is to handfeed a baby parrot. Also, no one can guarantee a baby that goes home on hand feeding.

Touching on the subject that you need to hand feed a parrot to bond with it. That is just not true, if it were, why dowe hear stories of adopted parrots with all kinds of backgrounds that have bonded with their new owners? With the upcoming baby season upon us, if this helps save even one baby and the family from heartache it will be well worth it.