Introducing new macaw

[mwoerner]

I currently have a 2 yr old blue and gold macaw, Cloe, which I adore. I have enjoyed her so much I am considering adding an addition to the family.
I would like to get a greenwing macaw and was wondering what was the best way to introduce the new member to Cloe. I plan on keeping them in separate cages but would like to let them play on the huge playyard that I have built outside (always supervised of course). Does the sex need to be the same as Cloe or opposite sex better? Should they stay in the same room of the house or separate rooms. Please give detailed advice as I would like to keep Cloe the same sweet bird and make the adjustment easy for her and the new one.

[The Outlaw]

Here is Wendy's response:

First of all make sure both birds are healthy before introducing them to each other.

There is bound to be some jealousy on the part of the Blue & Gold at first but generally macaws love having another macaw around. I'd keep them in the same room but in separate cages. I never cage two birds together with the exception of babies unless it is their decision. The sex of the birds should not make a difference.

When bringing in a new bird the most important thing is to let the "old" bird know he or she is still number one. Say hello first to the old bird, feed him first, take him out of the cage first etc. This helps immensely. My first bird was a Congo Grey. I still have her and she still comes first. We have a routine where her entrance in the morning is announced to all the other birds. She loves it! You don't have to go this far but just make sure Cloe always knows he is number one.

Wendy