Need Help finding a Breeder

[kimberly0317]

I think I am ready for my African Grey (my first bird). How do I find a quality breeder? I live in Northwest Arkansas. Do I need to find someone close by that can help me and answer questions or will I be ok if I have one shipped in?

What questions should I ask the breeder?

Can you recommend a quality, trustworthey breeder?

Thank you,
Kimberly

[Okanairda]

I sent you a PM with a recommendation. :) It's up to you whether you want to find someone local to you or have a bird shipped in. A lot of people prefer to find someone local so you can visit the breeder's facilities and spend time with your baby on the weekends. On the other hand, some people will have a bird shipped if there's a lack of availability in their area.

Some of the things I would ask:
1. How do you feed your babies? -- In short, tube feeding/force feeding is not recommended b/c you can hurt the baby.
2. How do you socialize your babies?
3. Consider asking for references
4. Ask about their avian vet -- get a number and call them up as another reference

There's more, but those are some important ones. Suppose I should back to work here ...

[AndreaSctlnd]

Hi. I too am looking for an African Grey and was wondering the same thing.

I live in N.W. Pa and have been scouring the internet. If I see of any out your way, I will post here.

[lisark]

Originally Posted by kimberly0317

I think I am ready for my African Grey (my first bird). How do I find a quality breeder? I live in Northwest Arkansas. Do I need to find someone close by that can help me and answer questions or will I be ok if I have one shipped in?

What questions should I ask the breeder?

Can you recommend a quality, trustworthey breeder?

Thank you,
Kimberly

Hi Kimberly!! Two things: I am also thinking of getting a Grey, and I am originally from Northwest Arkansas. I live in Newfoundland, Canada now but I grew up near Jasper, lived way up on a mountain on Diamond Cave Road.

Just wanted to say HI!! Good luck in your search!

[kellywess]

Here is a really good link below:

BirdBreeders.com - Bird Breeders Directory of Availability and Parrot Breeders

[kimberly0317]

Lisa,

It so wonderful to talk to people from close to home. I grew up in Harrison so I know exactly where you are talking about. Life sure has taken you far away.

Everybody,

I do appreciate everybodys help. I have been looking at the breeders online and I am very uncomfortable with buying a bird from anybody until I have more hands on experience. I have been trying to find a local bird club, no luck. I take my pet responsibilities seriously. I currently have 6 cats, 4 horses, 1 dog and 1 snake. Every one of theses animals have a forever home and are very well taken care of. I know that this bird could live for 80 years and my lack of knowledge could cause a lifetime of problems that I am not willing to pawn off on somebody else. I need someone locally to teach me some basics so that I don't cause big problems.

I know some people my think I am over reacting, but I have wanted a bird for years. I only want one bird and I don't ever want to get rid of it. I want to get it right the first time. So if anybody can help me find a bird person close to Bentonville Arkansas, that would be willing to teach me a few things I would be incredibly grateful.

Thanks,
Kimberly

[Tom Lawless]

Kimberly,
There is a place in London, Arkansas called Singing Wings Aviary that looks like it carries Congo African Greys (C.A. Grey on their website). It is two hours from you but they might be able to recommend someone to you. A lot of times bird people know a lot of others and it seems like they try to help each other out. I hope that helps.
Tom

[featherduster]

If your only looking for ONE parrot, I reccomend getting a female..:)

Buy close to home from a small breeder. The internet is no longer a good place to buy from. Too many scamers out there..ugh!