Bird shows?

[klamb85]

Are bird shows good places to buy birds? I've heard of one in Shaumburg, IL and I am wondering if it is respectible place to buy a Timneh. I'm am currently on a waiting list at a petstore. It will be almost an entire year before I even get my bird. And it is going to cost me over $900. Would a bird show be cheeper?

My main concern about a bird show is that if the birds are healthy. Does anyone else have any experiance with a bird show?

Thanks!

klamb85

[kp_in_scott]

I would not buy a bird at a bird show. You may be able to make contact with breeders at the bird show, though. Buying directly from a breeder will cut out the middle man(pet store) and decrease the price somewhat. You will also then have a contact that you can go to when you may have questions about the birds care.

[GreetingCardReligion]

I agree, look into breeders in your area. They are often more reasonably priced than the petstores and many of them come with expert advice and a bird history you can't get at a store. By cutting out the middle man, you might save some money, just look around.

I've never been to a birdshow and I don't know the requirements they must adhere to when bringing birds there but all those birds in one place from so many different places sounds a little dangerous.

I paid $950 (before taxes) for my baby Jiminy directly from a breeder but I live in CA and everything is more expensive here ;)

[Samm]

I've bought several birds from the bird expo here in Orlando, I've always got good birds from there. Of course you have to quarantine though....

[Kristi]

Definitely seek out a good breeder. I paid an excellent breeder $700 for my Timneh. But remember that you still have to quarantine if you've got other birds:^)

[mpebs]

I use to live in Hoffman Estates, IL (right next door to Schaumburg). I would seek out the local bird rescues in that area. There are so many unwanted birds that need good homes. There are several of them in IL. I adopted a Panama Amazon once from a rescue when I lived back there. Joe was a fine bird.

[karen22]

i wish we had a bird rescue here. i would love to take in some unwanted birds.

[klamb85]

What exactly does quarantine mean?

I might go to the bird show just to look and to find a breeder. I've also heard that you can find really nice toys pretty cheap as well!

[MrRick]

I agree. I would not buy a bird at a show or mart unless I personally knew the breeder and what their reputation was. I would urge you to find a reputable breeder in your area. Most pet stores are primarily interested in selling a bird rather then educating the buyer first. Buying a baby from a reputable breeder is, by far, the best way to go!