Thinking about starting a bird related business (need advice)

[asurademon]

So, I've posted this on another forums as well, but want as feedback as I can get.

It's been a dream of mine for quite a long time to breed birds (primarily of species not commonly bred, with a focus on small toucan species), and sell bird supplies professionally. Where I live becoming a professional bird breeder is nigh impossible at the moment (I can breed them on a non-commercial scale, but not commercially due to zoning). But perhaps I can start a very small bird related business and work my way up from there.

Eventually of course I'm going to have to rent a place where I can conduct my business from, but I'm not going to worry about that too much right now.

So the first goal I have is to learn how to build nice custom cages. I need to build ones both for hookbills, softbills, and possibly other small animals such as rabbits. I also want to learn how to build play stands and perch stands, and bird toys.
I figure it may take me a year or two to really get to the point where I can build high quality products.

So I need to start learning how to build these, and I need some good websites that have guides on how to design and build cages, and what materials to use.

So does anyone know of good sites on building cages/play stands/perch stands (I'm going to look through the posts on this forum, but I need some off site links as well)?

Also what sort of advice do people have for me on finding customers?

[dubge]

Just keep in mind starting a business from a hobby could take the fun out of it and push you away, just keep that in mind

[my-africangrey-echo]

Originally Posted by dubge

Just keep in mind starting a business from a hobby could take the fun out of it and push you away, just keep that in mind

Well said dubge!

My husband and I did just that we opened a hobby shop just over 4 years ago and it did make our hobbies and turn them into work. I'm talking every waking minute work. Plus we still have to pay our home bills so we both work full time jobs too. You can't depend on the public to pay your bills for you especially in this economy today. We now have our 20 yr old son working for us in the store and now I only keep the books however we are no longer into our hobbies at all.

Owning a business is not something to jump into without ALOT of planning and commitment. Good luck in what ever you decide to do.

Chris

[featherfanatics]

I just opened a "bird only" store and I LOVE it. I got tired of driving almost 2 hrs to get decent bird stuff.
Don't get me wrong, it's alot of long hours, alot of stress, biting my tongue at times so I don't argue with a customer over bird care, ect.
On the plus side, I get to talk about birds 24/7 and can bring my birds to work.
P.M. me if you need any help ar advice. I'll help all I can!

[Doubleyolk]

I say put your money in the stock market,the return will be better and just as risky.

[Oscars Mom]

It depends ALOT if your going to need to support yourself with the money you earn. Cause I would think now is NOT a good time to start any kind of business thats using discretionary money.Id check out if their are active bird clubs in your area,any bird stores,is it a wealthy area etc. id go for it slowly make a few cages and see if they sell.having said that never let anyone discourage you from doing what you want in life cause you only get one chance to get it right. Good luck!!