best macaw for a first time macaw owner

[darkmage3]

Is there any species of macaw that has a more even temperment than others? We were looking at them the other day and are considering getting one in 6months or so, but I have to admit that big beak is scary. Would a mini-macaw be better?

[mmr]

Honestly, I think any macaw first time is scary as hell. I about had a heart attack when Teal was surrendered to me. He ACTED like such a bully. Now I am the bully and he knows I am not afraid anymore.

#1 never show them fear or they have got you in the palm of their talons! They actually think it is pretty darn funny.

Mini macaw is what I would say. Do you have any other birds? Do you have ANY bird experience?

They take up a lot of time, so no more spontanious going out, if it is a large one like Teal people will stop coming over cause they scream and are loud. Daily meals etc. At least 4 hours of out of cage time and that inclused out of cage time playing with or on mommy!

[huntress]

Im going to say a B&G or a GW. BUT if your a bird owner and just a first time Macaw owner I'm going to suggest getting it from a good breeder and purchasing before weaning. Go and be a part of the feeding -weaning- bonding process for visits and you will learn from the breeder how to overcome the beak thing and it makes it a ton easier. Also the baby will be less traumatized to come home with you and look to you for comfort in the new surroundings. Do not bring home an unweaned baby for your first Macaw - If he decides to revert you will have your handsfull.

[Gucci]

For what its worth, in December 2007, we became first time Macaw owners. We had owned birds for 25+ years (had parakeets for 10 years, then a conure for 25 years, and a DYH Amazon for 20 years - obviously some of these were simultaneous). Our first Macaw, Tiki, was a B&G. We absolutely loved him and had so much fun with him that we got our GW, Boudica 2 months later. I would highly recommend either of those 2 as a first Macaw. But, someone asked a good question - are you experienced with birds? You must not be a pushover, but be able to set limits for your birds. In turn, they will love, honor and respect. They will still try to push their limits, but they will respect your response. (Oh, and I must add, I 've heard awesome things about Hy's, but have not actual experience as I just can't afford one.)

My 2 are so loving. Frankly, the GW and my husband have such a bond that I actually tell people I think she was his lover in a previous life that has been reincarnated as our bird! But, with that said, while she is head over heels in love with my husband, she is very good with me too. It's just that if there was ever a situation where she could save just one of us, I know what her response would be...LOL!

So, to make a long story short, I think either a B&G or a GW would be a good choice.

[becca623]

Red fronts are a nice size macaw. Slightly bigger than the severes but much smaller than the blue and golds. They are said to make great family pets. I've only lived with mine for a month and I love him to pieces. Last night he climbed into bed with me after I fell asleep. (No worries, my husband put him back in his cage so he didn't get hurt.) Is there a breeder or reputable pet store near you where you can spend time with various birds and get a feel for what bird might fit best into your home? Spending time with birds is the best way to overcome beak fears imo. At one time, I was scared of budgies. Despite that fact, I rehomed a conure with quite an attitude. He helped me get over my fear of bites. I learned that the rewards outweighed the pain. After that, I started spending time with larger birds. Now, I enjoy birds of all sizes. I remember when large macaws and seemed huge and intimidating. I see the same birds now and think "wow, did they shrink or something?". Those beaks don't seem so huge anymore. The blue and golds, green wings, and red fronts are supposed to make good first macaws given that they are appropriately socialized, handled, and weaned. Perhaps if you could post what area you live in, some of the people here can recommend some breeders for you to contact.
Good luck, Rebecca

[becca623]

Winged Wisdom Pet Bird Magazine - Macaws - Personality Plus!!
Thia article gives an overview or glimpse of each of the species of macaws available widely available in the pet market. It was written by long time macaw owners and breeders.

[KimM]

Totally agree with huntress on all points here. A B & G or GW. They are on the more "docile" end of the spectrum. Scarlets are on the "aggressive" end. Scarlet's Not recommended for first time macaw owner.

And I agree with her on the weaning and bonding process as well. I got a Harlequin for my first (B&G and GW hybrid). He's fantastic and I was with him almost every day (from 8 weeks) until he was weaned. It was well worth it. When I brought him home, he adjusted almost instantly. Be patient. He/she will be with you for the rest of your life.

[Irish]

Hyacinth, if you have the financial resources to purchase and maintain one. They're like big blue puppies with feathers :-). They're not easy keepers, though! Like the avian royalty that they are, they're "high maintenance".

[kellywess]

I would recommend starting off with a "mini." Same personality... smaller package.

[KimM]

Originally Posted by Irish

Hyacinth, if you have the financial resources to purchase and maintain one. They're like big blue puppies with feathers :-). They're not easy keepers, though! Like the avian royalty that they are, they're "high maintenance".

Irish, With your experience with Mikey Blue, can you tell me about the "high maintenance"? I've heard they need a more specialized diet (more fat) than most and macadamia nuts? What else have you found different about Mikey Blue vs. your other macaws?