Playmate for a less than 1 y/o white bellied caique

[Sherry S]

Hi all! I have 8 parrots. Conures, Cockatiels, and a caique. All are less than two years old. The only one that does not have a buddy is my WBC. I think Peanut is a female, but I am not certain. Peanut does talk, though.

Peanut keeps trying to groom and play with the other birds, but they are afraid of her energetic hyper play. She really seems to want a play buddy and friend. She is a very well behaved, but extremely clingy. I have tried a stuffed anima, but she is only interested as long as I am holding to play with her.

So, I am looking for a companion/playmate for my WBC. The vet suggested either another WBC or a Rainbow Lorrie. For those of you with experience in dealing with this, what are your experiences and/or advice in this situation?

 

[Cassiopejaz]

My advice is actually to get another WBC.

My WBC doesnt fit to well with my Meyers..today they atleast wont kill eachother..Jack (WBC) is always with me when he is out...and that works fine since Toby love to talk to me but is more intrested in exploring and play with Toys ( he refuse to play with toys in the cage tho)

So ye my advise is get another WBC...bigger chance that they will connect with eachother

 

[Sherry S]

My advice is actually to get another WBC.

My WBC doesnt fit to well with my Meyers..today they atleast wont kill eachother..Jack (WBC) is always with me when he is out...and that works fine since Toby love to talk to me but is more intrested in exploring and play with Toys ( he refuse to play with toys in the cage tho)

So ye my advise is get another WBC...bigger chance that they will connect with eachother

Thank you! Peanut is a wonderful bird and my little darling. I just want her to be happy! I have even been looking for one of the toy birds that make noise and motion. Any suggestion?

 

[fashionfobie]

I don't think there is a toy that can make up the difference of another of her kind. Lorikeets do have a similar play style, but what if it goes wrong. Also lorikeets do have a specialised diet which would need to be added to your routine with your flock. I think your best bet is another WBC. Be prepared for an adjustment period. Some birds will not accept the friend we choose.

 

[sunnysmom]

I think another WBC is your best bet too.

 

[Sherry S]

I agree. It takes a Caique to rough house and befriend another Caique. I haven’t seen a Lorrie with as much energy as she has.

 

[finchly]

Are you aware they don't always become buddies? Are you prepared to house them separately just in case?

 

[fashionfobie]

I agree. It takes a Caique to rough house and befriend another Caique. I haven’t seen a Lorrie with as much energy as she has.

Just for some dorky birdie facts. A Lory and Lorikeet are different birds, the difference is like a parakeet vs a true parrot. It is related to tail length Mind you all are parrots..so yeah it can be confusing! Not relevant to your post I just thought you would enjoy the little factoid.
Lory and Lorikeet | San Diego Zoo Animals & Plants