Are two caiques better than one?

[rockybird]

I am not seriously considering getting a second caique for several reasons: I am worried about the noise factor. I dont want to lose my bond with my bird. I am worried that the aggressive episodes that he occasionally has will get worse.

But, when I see him run to the full length mirror to be near his reflection, it pains me. I know that he doesnt think that the reflection is real, but that it is of some comfort to him, like a child with a doll. I wonder if I am doing him a disservice by not providing a friend? My place is loftlike, so noise is easily transmitted. Two loud birds would be too much for me. But maybe the noise is not so bad? And I have heard that caiques will love their owner despite the new friend? It would also help me feel less guilty when I go on work trips and maybe provide more free time for me to work at home. At home, Zeek ALWAYS wants to be with me, but I cannot work with him, as he will not sit still and is into everything. The conure will sit snuggled up against my neck happily for hours while I work, but with Zeek it is impossilbe. A friend may provide the companionship and playfriend he seeks. When I see Zeek, I sometimes see a little confused bird who really belongs in the wild (but of course he would not survive there now). He doesnt belong in a cage, or snuggling with a human. He belongs in the jungle with a female and other caiques, raising babies. Sometimes I wonder if getting him a female bird would enhance his life. But I am also worried about mine!

Thanks.

[sweetpeaches]

i've heard people say "the only thing better than a caique..is having two"..smile
i just have one and i also work during the day. that's one of the reasons i got bailey because i read that they're pretty good at entertaining themselves as long as you supply them with lots of toys and stuff. he does fine while i'm gone..but he loves it when i come home!

[Freedomoflight]

I have two caiques. They merely tolerate each other. I think that yes, two can defiantly be better then one, but as long as they get along OK. I think the key to that is getting a second bird that is close in age to the first bird, and preferably getting both birds when they are younger so they have time to adapt to each other, rather then setting in their own ways first.

[rockybird]

Thanks guys. I appreciate the replies. I think I will wait for the right time. Maybe a second hand or rescue will come available around Zeek's age someday that he will like.

[sweetpeaches]

birdtalk magazine (march) has an article on owning 2 caiques.

[rockybird]

Oh thanks Susan. I will check it out.