I feel like I see valid points on both sides of this topic.
Relatoo has joined for knowledge , has been researching, thats a lot more than many people do. People do keep cockatoos . And the poster is dedicated to this species. I don't want them felt driven off, when being part of community like this has a lot to offer.
While everything shared by knowledgeable members is valid and truthful. This is a challenging species.
But so are budgies for many. Poor budgies are probably the most rehomed species. Because novice people unprepared. Sure they don't compare to the noise or destruction capabilities of 2s, but both are re homed because of un prepared owners. This poster is trying to prepare. I want to support that.
Some things that will help in having such a smart and social species. If the breeder can start introducing them to the harness. Its ever so much easier to harness train a baby parrot. And will lead to so much more freedom in being able to safely take them out side.
Reading up on behavior modification, and shaping behavior. Reading everything on problem behaviors and how to help. I like a lot of Pamela Clark articles.
Teaching foraging. It can be an activity to do together. And its a great way to keep them occupied and use mental energy. When they get good you can have them foraging for their full diet .
Set up a routine. If there is a couple of hours that you predictably need less interruption. Make that part of your day. I worked to have my free during the day birds, caged and quiet time for an hour to 2 mid day. They seem to look forward to this now. I set them up with foraging treats. You can pattern to soft music. I did a lot of rewarding quiet birds , and I still do.
Have an outlet for pent up energy. A time you do in home flight recall. Some minor or harder truck training. A time you go for a bike ride or walk together.
Thank you for your kind words. I totally agree with you. I know that a lot of people are tired of seeing how many cockatoos are rehomed. I know it’s sortve an epidemic in the aviary keeping world. All I can say is that I don’t get animals unless I can completely afford their daily care, vet costs, and housing them is comfortable for all. I love animals, and as mentioned this is not an impulsive decision, like oh wow that’s a beautiful bird, I want it. No, I totally understand this is can possibly be a challenge. A great challenge. What separates me from the new aviary keepers, is that I’m aware of the challenge, educated on it, and am not walking in blind. I’m not going to say 6 months from now that the bird was too loud, or the bird disrupted the other animals. I’m prepared to invest $5,000 to sound proof the room if she is too much for my other pets and or tenants. If that doesn’t show my level of commitment, I don’t know what will. I was just looking for tips on how to keep your pet cockatoo more on the quiet side. Nowhere did I say anywhere in my post that I was asking for advice on if I should get the bird or not. I’m a 30 year old adult who has made a decision to get a cockatoo. I appreciate the concern, but to all those negative people - with all due respect, I’m good. If you can’t offer friendly, kind advice then please just skip over. I don’t do well with people being negative towards me or decisions I make. Again, I’ve talked to several people who have raised birds for over 30+ years. I’m not sure if anyone is familiar with Tony Silva ? He’s given me the best advice imaginable, and never once was rude or discouraging like 90% of the responses on here. These people act like they’re the only ones suited for aviary keeping, it’s funny to me. To all those negative replies, remember that you all had to start and came into this as a newbie too.
good day to all from now on I’m only replying to positive messages like this one and Mr Blueberry’s
