bird show question,

[drjbad]

I am new to larger birds. Recently purchased solomon eclectus, I see there are bird convention/show events exactly what are they like would I learn anything is it all sales? Are there birds there? food cages? What to expect worth a drive or not? Thanks

[Lisa B]

Each show is differnt. I have been in the bird club show circut since the early 90's. You wont know if its worth going to untill you go. Some have everything under the sun. Jewlery, home goods, foods, toys,clothing, cages, and birds. Some are nothing but judging. Once your there, you'll be able to tell if its worth going to again next year. Sorry I couldnt be more specific, but its the truth
Also if you do go, remember to be careful with bringing things into your house from the show. Everything should be washed down. There are diseases out there that kill. Transmission of them still in the guessing stages. A bird might appear well at a show, but be a carrier. Another person might bring in their bird, not knowing it is sick. Lots of senarios.
It certainly doesnt keep me from shows, but I take precautions when I come home.

[jriley]

I've only been to one but I loved it. I got some great deals on toys and toy parts that alone made it worth the trip and I really enjoyed the seminars they had. On the other hand, I saw a lot of unhealthy-looking birds in unsanitary conditions. Hard to believe people would take birds like that in public and even harder to believe that none of the organizers told them to get the heck out of there. After seeing that, I would never buy a bird there, but the supplies are great. Such a much wider variety than you would ever find unless you're lucky enough to live near a bird specialty store and prices were so good.

Julie

[macawlover]

The bird shows here (MN) are nothing but sales! Ther are all kinds of birds, and every time I've gone there, I've never seen a sick/injured bird, so people do a pretty good job at choosing which birds to bring. I actually got my macaw's cage from one of those fairs for half the price it went for online!