Blue Front Amazon

[DeguMom]

Hello all!

This is my second post here - I just posted in the Intro Forum since I'm new here.

I am here to learn as much as I can about BFA parrots.

I have the chance to adopt a 4yo from my grandfather (who recently went into a nursing home and won't be getting back out). I have only ever taken care of cockatiels, so I need to see if I'll be able to take care of this bird properly, and give it everything it needs.

I've been browsing the site, and have learned a LOT already. I guess I am just looking for any additional tips or facts that will help me in my decision.

I want to make the best decision for the bird, regardless of what I would prefer personally, because the bird deserves a forever home - not to be jostled about.

[Oscars Mom]

Id go for it bfa are great pets.It will make it alot easier for your grandfather too.

[Amie]

Is it male or female? If it's male, read up as much as you can about BFAs during the mating season so you aren't shocked when it comes around. Some can get quite nippy and aggressive. (emphasis on some)

The females, on the other hand, can be even sweeter than usual during the mating season, which is backwards from most other bird species.

They are gorgeous birds and are extremely intelligent!! Little clowns, too. Make sure he/she has lots of things to tear apart---my friend's BFA LOVES shreddable toys. They last minutes!

[huntress]

woo hoo Congrats! Its great you took him in. So many times birds lose their forever home to mom or dad going up in years. Please do keep up your research for his (or her sake). We can all help you here.

[DeguMom]

I don't yet know the gender of this little bird, but I keep referring to it as a "him" for some reason. I'm working on a long list of questions to ask my uncle about the bird, and that's top of the list.

Thank you all so much for the replies. I went to the library yesterday and got a stack of books a mile high all about Amazons, but honestly, I think hearing from real people with real experience is a little better, because I can get really specific info from you guys.

I'm going to have a lot of questions, and I am so thankful for all the great info I've found here so far!

[Wally]

Our first Parrot was a BFA [Pepe] that we took in as a re-home. He was in a bad predicament and the owner was looking for a new environment for him. He was at least 8 years old, and we had him for another 8 years before he died. [Two years ago] I was broken-hearted. We had gotten a YCA for my wife when we had Pepe for about a year, and had Quaker parrot adopt us a few years after that. When Pepe died, we had an empty cage. A few months after, we rescued in a Lilac Crown Amazon. Although nothing will ever take Pepe's place in my heart, our Skippy has definitely filled the cage well. These wonderful creatures are like children. They will live long, and are true companions. They each have their own uniqueness and are totally different characters. I still get choked up with fine memories of my Pepe.

[DeguMom]

Thank you all very much for the info! We have decided to go ahead and adopt the bird.

It's a little boy, and my uncle sent us some photos of him tonight. He's quite handsome, not afraid of the camera at all (which is good at my house, as all pets are subject to constant photographing - LOL), and has a nice cage. I'm really getting excited. We'll bring him home in about 2 weeks!

I still have more questions, so want to thank everyone for all your help! I'm going to need continued advice if you don't mind! :)

[DeguMom]

Well, we've met the bird! He's such a handsome boy, and very, very sweet. They've not gotten him out of his cage in a while, but you can tell he's quite tame and used to getting lots of attention. I imagine that with some work, he'll quickly get used to being handled again.

He's very friendly, and I'm so excited to get him home with me on Sunday!

[Astrid660]

Good luck! i'm excited for you! :)

[DeguMom]

Thank you!

Cosmo is now in his new home here with us. He is an absolute delight! He's sweet, laid back, and very very friendly. His number 1 quality so far seems to be nosiness. LOL

We're already totally in love with him, and how he dances when we come home.

He is too shy to take food from my hand yet, but I don't think it will take him long. Once he settles in, I plan to start his "step up" training. I'm looking forward to that.

Thanks to everyone for the help and encouragement. I really feel like we made the right decision adopting this little boy. I'm sure I'll have loads of questions as time goes on, we want to make sure he's happy and healthy for life!