Hello! Some of you might know me from the budgie board. I currently have 2 budgies and I am strongly considering adopting a tiel from a friend.
The friends are getting rid of the bird because they recently had a baby. Their reasoning is that they do not have enough time for it anymore, (as the wife doesnt' like birds at all anyway) and were woried about germs with the baby. I am actually curious about this, as we are planning on having children in 2+ years. People keep dogs and cats around with babies...is there a different threat with birds? (besides Clamydiosis) Is this something the bird needs to be tested for regardless of it's appearing healthy, or just watch for? I know it can be transmitted to humans, but what about budgies? (and yes, I will quaranteen)
It sounds like he (Tiki) has only been fed a seed mix...and he's about 2 years old. I am hoping I can get him on fresh foods and a little pellet without too much trouble. Ha! He likes his head rubbed, and will tell you with a squawk when you rub the wrong way. He likes to talk, and will be with you on your shoulder as long as you'll let him. It might be interesting having 2 talkers!
My main concern is that we like the cockatiel mannerisms and mostly that he and my other two can get along well. I was told that he was around a friend's budgie before, and wanted to make friends, but the budgie wasn't so sure about that idea.
I feel an obligation to keep my fids happy. While I love to help out and give this tiel a good home, I don't want to do so at the expense of my budgies since I committed to them first. Is it safe to have my budgies out with the tiel? I have hear of them in aviaries together, but I am just worried since this bird isn't used to sharing attention or having another bird around. During the day when I am home they pretty much have free reign of the house and I will not take that away. Do any of you have both out together? As silly as it may sound, I am afraid of upsetting Kiwi, my tame male budgie, as he is used to being my buddy and not sharing me. I figured I could take him out of the cage first and let him have a few moments with me alone, and then take Tiki out so that Kiwi is still in his 'place'. Possibly that would help.
Anything Tiel specific I should know before adopting? Sorry this is so long, I am just concerned for the sake of my other birds! Thank you!