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How
to buy a parrotlet
First,
locate a breeder in your area. If that is not possible, expand your search
or contact those that ship. Neighboring areas or breeders in your state
should be explored first as this will be easier and less expensive. Sometimes
the cost to ship a parrotlet is more than the cost of the bird itself.
If you have to have one shipped, it will be less expensive to find a breeder
whose airport/airlines are able to fly the bird non-stop. It will also
be less stressful for everyone concerned. When shipping is your only option,
ask about their experience with the airlines. Some breeders do this all
the time and are confident of their methods and the safe arrival of your
pet.
Second,
check on availability and pricing. Do they have babies available now or
will they have babies soon? Do not be in a rush. Taking your time ensures
you have spent the time researching and that everything in place prior
to picking up the bird. What about price? (Review our pricing guide if
necessary.) If the cost of the parrotlet is below market value, ask why.
There has to be a reason.
Supply
and Demand
Each geographical area has its own market and therefore each breeder
should be aware of supply and demand. If a particular market can only
handle a small number of pet parrotlets each season, breeders in those
areas should properly adjust their breeding practices. There are times
when the birds do what they want, but for the most part, the breeder
controls how many babies they will produce each season. Producing
more than the market can handle is irresponsible and leads to birds
being placed in inappropriate homes just to make a sale --- which
is bad for the entire species. Ask questions, do your research, and
most importantly, buy a healthy bird from a responsible breeder. |
Third, before you
reserve or put a deposit down on a parrotlet, obtain a list of all the
essentials you will need for housing, food, and entertainment. (How to
prepare for arrival gives you a detailed list of all essentials.) Find
resources for those products (review our products guide) and begin your
list of expenses.
Fourth, find a local
avian veterinarian and ask for prices on well exams and emergency care.
Your local vet may be a good place to start with inquiries. If he/she
is not familiar with birds, or parrotlets specifically, they should be
able to refer you another source. Some guarantees that come with bird
sales require a well-exam, but at least you will have the information
handy in case of an emergency.
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With research
completed and information on hand, will you be able to keep the
bird in appropriate housing, supply fresh foods daily, and replace
toys and perches as necessary? More importantly, will you be financially
able to provide expert medical attention in case of an emergency?
This is a big
decision!
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Fifth, visit the breeder
and let your new companion choose you. Your breeder will have more information
for you and will be able to answer any questions.
We sincerely wish
that you are as excited and pleased with this species as we are.
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