Looking for Mentor

[Nautilidae]

Hello,
I am new to bird handling and I am very interested in getting an African Grey after spending a bit of time with one and bonding with him. I have experience with Conures and Cockateils though I have never actually owned one I was employed at a pet store for a while before deciding it wasn't for me.

I live in the Des Moines IA area and am looking for mentors both to talk to or to possibly meet up with and actually get some experience with bigger birds. There is a rescue about a 4 hour drive from me but I am currently fostering a puppy and waiting for a good weekend to have someone puppysit before I take a drive up there. I am more than comfortable with exotic animals and while I don't like biting I can handle it!

Please feel free to message me or send in advice. I don't plan on getting a bird for at least a year.

 

[JLcribber]

You’ve got 15,000 members here to rely on. There is no greater wisdom than the wisdom of the crowd.

Stick around. Post a lot and you’ll learn everything you need to know.

 

[cassiesdad]

Welcome to the Avenue.

I understand what you're getting at...hopefully you'll be able to find a mentor in your area....plus joining us here will be an asset to you, no doubt. Like @JLcribber said, there are 15,000 of us you can bounce your questions and concerns off of....and there there are no "stupid" or "silly" questions...

 

[Tiel Feathers]

I think it's great that you want to gain minowlege and experience before you get a bird!

 

[Laurul Feather Cat]

We love new Roadies! I am one of those people who do not do well with the larger birds. I was unable to adjust to an attacking Yellow-Naped Amazon cock and between the garbled communication with the bird and the physical limitations I have from having spinal reconstructive surgery, I had to rehome the Amazons. I miss the hen, Precie, to this day and am sorry I ever let such a calm bird go; but her mate was more than a match for me: he was abusive and I had little way of correcting his behavior right after having such extensive surgery. Hindsight is 20/20 now I have recovered from my surgery.

It seems my best species for interaction are the Poicephalus species, and my heartbird is my Senegal, Sunshine. Hopefully when you get to the rescue, you will meet your own heartbird! Good luck. There may also be a closer by mentor for you as well at the rescue.

 

[taxidermynerd]

Welcome!

 

[expressmailtome]

Welcome, and enjoy the site!

 

[Macawnutz]

 

[sunnysmom]

Welcome to the forum!

 

[zoo mom]

Welcome

 

[Tyrion]

Welcome

 

[Sarahmoluccan]

Welcome I hope you enjoy your time here
It's always nice to see someone who wants to do a lot of research before getting bird. Ask as many questions as you like. The people here have a lot of experience and will answer your questions the best they can

 

[Cassiopejaz]

Welcome to AA hope u will enjoy ur stay here

Ask as many questions you want...there is no stupid questions..

 

[DQTimnehs]

 

[Zoepr143]

Welcome to the avenue!