scam emails

[jriley]

Hi everyone. I'm new to the site and I think it's great how everyone is willing to share information. I'm hoping some of you have experience with those weird scam emails regarding bird sales and can help me deal with them.

While I am trying to work with my Tucuman Amazon, frustration has led me to post a few ads to sell him. I haven't had any "real" responses, but have had at least five very suspicious emails that I deleted. All of the emails had multiple misspellings. All of them were very generic-sounding as if they were templates. Most made a reference to my "advert" and my "pet" and did not indicate the writer had actually read my ad. All requested my name, address, and information about my "pet". Two were obviously related to the scam I've heard about in which the person sends you a bad certified check and asks you to send "extra" money to a "shipper". Both of those indicated the "buyer" was in England. I guess that's because we've all heard about the Africa scam.

Anyway, I'm thinking my instincts are pretty good so far, but wondered if there is a good way to make sure anyone inquiring about my bird is a real potential buyer. I know to ask about their ability to care for him properly, what I'm worried about is avoiding being scammed. If the right person comes along, I am not opposed to shipping him, but that prospect is kind of scary given how prevalent this problem seems to be.

I've also considered buying him a mate and letting him be a breeder again since he seems so desperate for birdie companionship. The same scam worries come up as I think about buying from somebody distant from me. There aren't many people with Tucuman hens out there that are willing to part with one. How can I be sure I'm dealing with a reputable person if I go that route?

I appreciate any input you all have to offer. I did post my problems with my bird to the ask an expert area. I'm hoping somebody somewhere has some solutions that will work with my guy so that I'm able to keep him, but, if not, I really would like to find him a great home where he'll be happy.

Julie Riley

[Tiki]

Hi Julie! The reposnses you had were absolutely scammers. I honestly don't think you would have that much trouble selling him locally, even at a bird fair if he is a good, healthy bird. To avoid having the bird passed from one home to another unnecessarily, it would be better if the buyers could met him and see how they click with him.