Hey everyone!

[Flyinhigh]

Hi, I just wanted to introduce myself. I'm Kaylie, and just recently became interested in parrots a couple weeks ago. I was in Petsmart and decided to stop and look at the birds, in one cage, I saw a really pretty Maroon Bellied conure and went up to look at him. He acted almost as if he wanted me to put my finger in but I was hesitant as I've heard stories about people getting bitten before. Well, he was so cute that I couldn't resist and put my finger in anyway. He immediately hopped on and began gently nibbling it. I have to admit I was a little suprised because I've never seen a bird that bold and friendly before - at least usually not in pet stores. I fell instantly in love with this little guy and promised myself I'd look up some information on them when I got home. In the cage next to him, there was also a Green cheeked conure, but I noticed he acted a little agressive and would bite hard on your finger if you stuck it in. I talked with a lady who worked there though and she said he was a lot more playful and social than the Maroon belly. She thought it might be because they had had him for longer and he'd bonded more with the employees.

Anyway, I have been doing a bunch of research on conures and they sound like wonderful pets. My search led me here and I decided to join in hopes of learning more about these guys. I'd really like to get one, but don't want to jump into anything without the proper research, and I know it would be big commitment. While I've never had any experience with parrots, I do keep Ringneck doves and love them to pieces so I'm not completely new to birds.
Well, this turned out to be longer than I planned, sorry. I look forward to meeting and talking with you all! This looks like a great message board, thank you so much for all the helpful information.

[Flyinhigh]

Oops, I'm sorry this posted twice for some reason.

[kp_in_scott]

Hi Kaylie! Welcome! And thank you for researching about birds before you decided to bring one into your home. Learn as much as you can about many different species BEFORE you take the plunge. Many birds have long life cycles and you are generally commited for the long haul. You may also want to speak to others about the noise level of conures. Depending on your living situation and nervous system, it may not be a good choice. Some folks don't mind a lot of noise and live in situations where noise doesn't bother neighbors. Those are perfect for conure owners. So glad you joined us. Make yourself at home!

[Star]

Hello, Kaylie! Welcome to Birdboard. I am pretty new here myself. It's so great that you know having a bird will be a huge commitment and are researching instead of just buying one straight away. That is a big mistake many people make. I agree with everything said Kp_in_scott. Check with your neighbors BEFORE you get the Conure. I'm glad you joined us and I hope you enjoy yourself here.

[Flyinhigh]

Hi kp_in_scott and Star. Thanks so much for the welcomes! It is sad that so many people impulsively buy pets without realizing what they're getting into. I always like to know as much about my animals as I can before I get them.

I don't live in an apartment or anything like that. I also know my neighbors pretty well, and don't think noise would be a problem. But I will check with them, just to be sure.

[Tiki]

Welcome Kaylie! You're doing good to research before you buy the bird. I would say let the bird choose you. Play with them both and see which one seems to click with you!