First of all, thanks Gbird!
Now for two questions:
"Birds usually don't start talking until one or two years of age. "
Is this a standard belief? I read somewhere about a "theory" that in the early months a parrot's tongue would be more adaptable and could learn more sounds. Are either of these strings of thought - earlier they learn best or takes years to do so - accurate assessments? (By the way, my Tui is starting to imitate the kissing sound my wife makes with him. He loves it. When I am not looking I can't tell it is him making the sound, parrots are so fascinating!!)
2nd:
"Keeping birds of different species who can provide company if not companionship for one another is a good idea."
Is it considered easier to keep the bond with your individual bird if you choose a second bird that is of a different breed? I am jealous of many of you with a variety of bird companions in your home, and while I may never adopt a dozen like I would like. A second or third is certainly in the plan.
Should I be considering getting a different specie than Tui as a better choice than adding another lovebird someday?
(I ask because I would love a Macaw and have been adoring many other smaller parrots like Sun Conures or Caiques. I wonder when it is best to add a second bird to the family without alienating my best buddy Tui. It often seems like fun idea if Tui had a perch companion and seems like it would keep him more likely to stay on the perch rather than on the end of my pen or pencil battling while I write. So, I don't want to introduce a second bird too soon before we bond as much as we should, nor do I want to spoil my guy and "ruin life as he knows it" when a second bird comes into his attention's path. My wife and I will have a baby soon, but I don't see that causing as much jealousy as a second bird. Tui is used to having niece's and nephews around taking up our attention. While a baby is full-time duty. I don't plan on leaving Tui in the cage or never allowing him to hang around like we do now.)
Thanks for any thoughts. And if it is best not answering here and stealing this thread, feel free to private message me an answer. I always answer my PMs.