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Birds--General/Maximillion Pionus
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Question
Hi Chrys,
You helped me back in March when I was trying to decide on which breed of parrot to get. At last, some 7 months later, I have settled on a Maxi's Pionus. Found a great breeder a couple of weeks ago and going to choose from a clutch of 3 tomorrow. The breeder says that males and females have the same temperament so she only DNA tests if specifically asked. I have read from about 5 or 6 different sources that females are more gentle and loving than hormonal males. Or would you say it really down to each individual bird? I am just feeling so stressed out about it. Hope you can offer some advice.
Many thanks,
Roz
Hi, Roz. Thanks for posting!
Females can be just as hormonal as males! If you have no interest in breeding your bird, than just pick one based on what you see when you go to pick the bird you want. Their temperament depends on the individual bird and how you raise it. Be sure to handle each bird and it's usually best if you let the bird pick you (not you pick the bird).
This breeder should DNA sex her birds regardless. A potential bird owner wants to know the sex of the bird they are buying (maybe not now, but later)! What if you decide later you want to breed your bird (you can always DNA sex s/he later...it's only about $20)?
Chrys
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thanks very much Chrys. I saw and let one of the Maxi's pick me today - well, perhaps not pick but was most comfortable sitting on me. I have asked the breeder to DNA test which she is happy to do, but after your advice, I think I will go with that one whether it is a female or male as it seemed really laid back. Interesting that females can be just as hormonal as males. Thanks again, Chrys. | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Chrys Meatyard
Expertise
I`ve been raising/breeding/handfeeding/selling parrots for over 20 years (parakeets/budgies, cockatiels, 6 subspecies of conures, parrotlets, amazons, lovebirds, etc.). I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England. I can provide advice in raising healthy birds, handfeeding/weaning babies, some health problems (although I'm NOT an avian veterinarian), nail/beak/wing clipping, general husbandry, etc. I also have experience with racing/showing homing pigeons. I cannot diagnose specific illness over this website. If you suspect your bird is ill or if you have an emergency, contact an avian veterinarian or emergency pet clinic ASAP.
Experience
Experience: Over 20 years raising parrots and over 13 years raising pigeons. Organizations: Currently, American Racing Pigeon Union and American Federation of Aviculture. Prior member Miami Valley Bird Club, Southern Ohio Pigeon Association, National Cockatiel Society, Miami Valley Sportsman's Club, others. Publications: Monthly newsletters of bird clubs.
Publications
I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England.
Education/Credentials
American Federation of Aviculture, completed Level I course, Fundamentals of Aviculture. Keeping/breeding parrots and other birds for over 20 years.
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