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"The big question is how to get this kind of information out there for people who won't do the research before buying. "
I think I have the answer. The people selling exotic birds have to educate the public.
The biggest part of the problem lies with the stores/people who breed or sell exotic birds. Pure and simple, they need to have a sense of morality towards the creatures they are selling and breeding by the hundreds. They need to explain to a potential exotic bird buyer exactly what they are getting into. Most bird sellers don't. Anyone with the cash and desire can walk out of the store with whichever bird they want. Completely unaware of how much noise they make or how much cage cleaning they are in for or how much attention and love these bird needs to thrive.
You can't put the blame on the people who want to buy them. Not most of the blame anyway. Knowledge starts with the people at the store.
I feel that most homes are not suitable for exotic birds nor are most people fit to have them. I don't blame them for that but it's just fact. There are very few people who can realistically be as devouted to their fids as their birds need them to be. Most people have too many other commitments (that's just life). That's why they are "exotic" pets and not for everyone. And yet....flip through any bird magazine and you'll see countless breeders advertising their "sweet hand fed babies"....."loving pets"....."great family pets".....etc. Where are all these birds going? And how many of them end up rotting in a corner of someone's living room, plucking their feathers out?
It's as if these beautiful creatures are being bred for a life of unhappiness. Sorry but it's just my observation. I never hear a seller trying to explain to someone the tremendous responsibility involved in keeping and exotic bird and me and my wife spend alot of time at bird stores. I'm sure there are a few who do (as many will doubtlessly tell me) but they are in the minority.
There needs to be a call (thuough trade magazines, internet forums, etc.) to all involved in the exotic bird industry to screen and educate the public. I think it's the best service that can be done for these birds.
But unfortunately: Birds = $$$.
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