Confused- which bird to get?

[DanP]

I am planning on getting a macaw and have been doing my research. I thought I was dead set on getting a military macaw because I find their markings/colors to be beautiful. When inquiring with several different breeders and asking questions, I was surprised to find that one of the breeders was trying to discourage me from getting a military macaw. She said that they tend not to be as friendly and are more tempermental. Is this true? She suggested that I look at a green winged macaw or a calico macaw. I'm not sure I feel comfortable purchasing a hybrid just because it seems weird to me. However, I don't want an inherently agressive bird. I'd appreciate any thoughts on this topic. Thank you.

Dan

[fluffy_stitch]

maybe she just didnt have any military macaws and didnt want you to go somewhere else?

[Copper]

Milly's are generally a bit more tempermental, but they are good. The GW is supposed to be the most laid back of all the macaws, with the exception of the Hys.
Any and all macaws need work daily to learn, and if you are getting a baby you have the opportunity to shape his personality as he grows.
I haven't handled a macaw yet that I don't like.

[Monica]

I've also heard that red front macaws are wonderful pets!

Many people will have various ideas about the best one to choose... you may find that you are dead-set on getting a certain species but end up bringing home another type instead! Your best bet is to go out there and handle the various birds you are interested in! You never know, as you may find that you enjoy one personality over another, and it could be between two different species of birds or of even the same species!

[RMSacha]

I would recommend a GW girl anyday!!!! I also agree with Monica, a Red-fronted makes an excellent choice as well... If I was going to get my first macaw and perhaps only, I would hands-down choose a Greenwing girl!...or a Hy, but unfortunately, not too many people want to spend the amount of money for a Hy...

There are several reputable breeders for GWs and RFs... and don't be afraid to ask for references.

Best of luck to you!

[PenelopeGem]

Do female macaws make better pets, than males?

[RMSacha]

Originally Posted by PenelopeGem

Do female macaws make better pets, than males?

Not necessarily... Before I get heck for this, please let me emphasize, this is my personal opinion, you can let it influence you or you can ignore it... I have been dealing with parrots for almost 20 years and macaws off and on during that time... I have now decided to stick with macaws because they are such wonderful souls, and again, in my opinion—they are the best suited for life with people provided the companion person is 100% dedicated.

Boy macs have the tendency to be a bit more independent—especially in B&Gs and they can be a bit more head-strong... Girls for the most part are cuddlers and need more companionship... Please do not misunderstand my comment about boys being more independent by thinking you won't need to spend as much time with them—you will but a boy will usually make sure you're in the room, do his thing and then come back to you just to check in... ALL macaws do have different personalities so please use my comments as a generalization and not a hard-fact.

I hope this helps...

[Karen1]

I've got both the GW and a Military. The Military is 12 yrs and a rehome. The GW is a 1 yr old and I bought him from a breeder.

The difference of the 2 are:
Billy (Military) is much more vocal. He screams if I leave the room or take to long to let him out when I get home. Would that have happened if I bought him as a baby? He's affectionate but, also curious and will leave me to investigate things at the drop of a hat.

Aspen (GW) is extremely quiet. Incrediably affectioniate to the point you have to peel him off you. Definetly a velcro bird.

I've heard that the Military can be nippy. Mine isn't, so I can't say for sure.

If I could only get one, I too would have a GW.

[macy07]

I have to agree with what Bob said about female macaws being cuddlers. I have an 8 month old baby female green winged macaw and she will fly off of her playstand and come to me when I'm sitting on the couch and she will actually cuddle up in my arms and lay her head on my shoulder while I rub her head. Then she will roll over on her back and lay in my arms like a baby and hold my hand in her feet. I don't have experience with any other macaws but every breeder we spoke to during our decision process told us that both sexes make good pets, it just depends on what you're looking for. They said females are usually calmer, not as boisterous, not as curious or mischevious as males and they are definitely bigger cuddlers. Some people want the big personalities and independence of the males. We were a little nervous about getting such a big bird so everyone told us we should get a female greenwing because even though they are bigger than the other macaws they are very loving and very gentle. They just have to be taught from the beginning what is and isn't allowed in your home. Good luck with your decision!
Macy07

[Macaaaw]

As the saying goes, you cannot judge a book by the cover. None of the age old advice about what each bird is like is going to be spot on accurate about an individual bird. I just purchased a Blue & Gold that cannot be touched, and a Military that loves to be held and stroked.

Spend time looking and learning about what you are getting into. It is almost like adopting a developmentally challenged child, except this child never grows up and may like to bite.

I grew up with buggies for many years before ever looking at the large Macaws. That is not a bad way to learn, start slow and small.

I see you have a thread looking for a Hyacinth. I also would love one or two of these awesome creatures. I have had Macaws 15 plus years and have some idea what I would be getting into. I have played a little bit with a small starting to feather baby. They are very sweet birds.

A blue & Gold would set you back one tenth as much money and give you much the same expirence.