tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6139900243093063552024-03-12T21:52:35.113-07:00Parrotlet BlogGeneralized Parrotlet InformationSandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.comBlogger174125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-70683588337046005142014-03-30T16:06:00.000-07:002014-03-30T16:06:28.947-07:00Parrotlet Toe InjuryHi,
I have a question about a parrotlet foot injury. One of my parrotlets had the entire toenail of her front longer toe and has what looks like a pinched in black spot on her back shorter toe of her other foot. Her parrotlet friend likely bit her while she was on top of the cage. She is getting stronger each day with no further bleeding. I'm mostly concerned with the back toe that seems pinched with a black spot on it. The part of the toe beyond this injured spot is pink and the nail looks normal. Should I leave it alone and just watch it?
Thank you for your time,
Pam
<i>Dear Pam:
Unfortunately, I'm not a vet and can't diagnose a parrotlet's medical condition especially online. If you are concerned about your bird's health, you should bring him to a vet for an examination. I wish I had more info for you but when it comes to health issues its always best to get a professional opinion from a qualified veterinarian competitent in avian medicine.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>
Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-24967507479773578902014-02-09T11:15:00.000-08:002014-02-09T11:15:25.561-08:00International Parrotlet Society, Mexican Parrotlets, So you close down and just take members money. I paid a long term membership fee less then a year ago. My Attorney will be in touch!
<i>Dear Mr. XXXX:
Thank you for your email. According to our records, you joined IPS in October of 2011 and paid for a one year membership. IPS did not accept any renewals or applications after December 31, 2012 (your membership expired in October of 2012). IPS was closed after written notification to all current members in 2013 and offered refunds to those members. All remaining funds were donated to another 501©(3) organization as per IRS rules and the bylaws of the International Parrotlet Society.
I believe you have confused our organization with another. If you have documentation to prove otherwise, a cancelled check or other instrument indicating you paid ‘for a long term membership less than a year ago’ please provide it as I am quite sure you are mistaken. However, if something ‘slipped through the cracks’, I will be more than happy to refund your money out of my OWN personal funds although I am under no legal obligation to do so.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
Sandee,
Thank you for responding. Since the original notificaton of the IPS closing down I have sent numerous emails as to where to continue getting information. I was surprised that your site NEVER came up in any of my searches. Anyway, it was suggested I attempt one last time and make mention of the "A" word. (attorney) I am quite surprised it worked! So, I apologize for the deception and thank you for responding.
I have a "Mexican" or to be more specific, Forpus cyanopygius cyanopygius, and I would love to get him a mate. However I can not seem to find him one. With no local breeders in my area that I have been able to find, and not sure of what I should actually be paying for one. (Chico was a rescue) I had been inquiring with IPS when it shut down as to this info as well as looking to learn where Chico had come from using his leg band information. (Another bit that IPS NEVER responded to)
I truely hope you will be able to steer me in the right direction and I again apologize for my tactics.
Sincerely,
XXXX
<i>Dear XXXX:
Once IPS was shut down, it was shut down. Disappeared. Gone from the web. There was no way you could contact us anymore unless you contacted me on my private email which you did. Threatening a lawsuit had nothing to do with it. I have a legal background myself and am not intimidated by threats of legal action especially when I have done nothing wrong. Besides, no one pays attorneys hundreds of dollars an hour to go after $25 especially since this would be a small claims court action at best. So no, your tactic didn’t work other than you finally used the correct address to contact me.
I am unaware of anyone in the US who has Mexican parrotlets anymore. For more than a decade, I was the only one who had them. Before that, I worked solely with zoos, breeding cooperatives and members of the IPS Breeding Cooperative. All of those breeders got out of parrotlets in the 1990’s and I know of no one who breeds them in the US anymore. I worked for more than twenty years to preserve these birds but when the color mutations were imported in the mid-1990’s most people dumped their other species. The economy eventually put the rest of the breeders out of business and the zoos couldn’t manage them as they wished. Eventually they all became related, inbred and eventually died out, The last one I saw outside of my aviary was in 2002.
I’m very sorry I don’t have a better answer for you. If I hear of anyone who has them, I’ll pass your information on to them.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-91495907100271714802014-02-09T10:57:00.000-08:002014-02-09T10:57:19.348-08:00Parrotlet Babies Dieing at WeaningHey Sandee,
We recently bred our Parrotletts and hatched 6 babies. We kept them with the parents until they were 19 to 22 days old. They were all very big and healthy looking and starting to get feathers except one which stayed kind of small but was still healthy looking and getting feathers just like the others. We removed them from the brood box as they became old enough to start hand feeding them so they could get used to being handled. They would be hand fed three to four times until their crops were full and they seemed fine. Once they were taken away from the parents they stopped chirping like they were asking for food. It has been about 7 weeks since they hatched and we lost two this past week. The others are also looking like they are not getting any nutrition even though they are eating until their crops are full. They are being fed the same food through a syringe that the other baby cockateels and parakeets are being fed with and they are doing fine. The person feeding them and taking care of them is an experienced handler and has raised all types of baby birds to weening with no problems on the same food she is using now. It is a mixture of Zupreme for baby birds some peanut butter and vitamin supplement blended together until smooth and soft with no chunks in it. Is there something they should be given or do you have any suggestions?
Thanks
Richard and Linda
<i>Dear Richard and Linda:
So sorry to hear about the loss of your parrotlets. Baby parrotlets need to be fed 5-6 times a day not 3-4. Also, they need to continue to be fed while they are weaning. Most parrotlets are not beggars or criers like cockatiels therefore it is imperative you watch their weights not just go by begging as they will starve to death. You can’t tell if they are gaining weight by looking at them, only by weighing them. They should be weighed daily before their first feeding. If they are being fed enough food 5-6 cc’s at a time and are being fed at least 5 times a day, I would have them checked by a vet. They could have polyoma as the symptoms you describe are consistent with that viral disease. Also, it is NEVER a good practice to mix various species of birds together particularly cockatiels, budgies and lovebirds which are often asymptomatic carriers of polyoma and beak and feather.
Best of luck with your birds!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase</i>
Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-27074129713015282462014-02-01T13:46:00.002-08:002014-02-01T13:46:39.679-08:00Green Rump Dark Spot on Beak, Doesn't Like Being Touched
Hi, Sandee!
I have a 6 month old Pacific parrotlet named Pocket who is just thriving -
very bonded and quite the talker! A few weeks ago, I acquired a sweet
green-rumped parrotlet (hatched 10/19) from XXXXX. "Pookie" seems to be
adjusting well. He calls me just like Pocket does when I get home from
work, and hops quickly onto my hand when I put it in the cage, ready to eat
out of my palm (he and Pocket are in separate rooms).
I just have a couple of minor questions, if you have time.
- the inside of the very tip of Pookie's lower beak is very dark/black. Is
that just a normal coloring thing? I know they also have issues with beaks
becoming too long, so he's already getting bee pollen granules, which he
seems to like.
- any suggestions on how to get him used to head scritches? Pocket loves
them, but Pookie does not want to be touched. He doesn't hesitate to take
seeds which are held between my fingertips, but does not want to be touched
by those same fingertips.
I was going to ask about getting him to eat more veggies and fruit (so far
he eats Nutriberries, millet, hulled sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, oats,
and broccoli), but I got out your book and found some great ideas! I've
also ordered some birdie bread mix which I've read that parrotlets like.
Just a side note - I bought each of them a "snuggle pillar" from an Etsy
site called Happy Wings, and they both sleep under them. Much better than
the tents or wreaths, which I would think get pretty messy!
I'm really loving both of my birds! Just sorry it took me so long to
discover parrotlets!
Take care,
Mary
<i>Dear Mary:
Thank you for your email.
Green Rumps have very delicate beaks which makes them more fragile and easily susceptible to bruising and is one of the issues I believe contributes to some of their beak problems. Although I cannot see the beak, I believe it is probably a bruise which may grow out in time. Kind of like when you hit your fingernail with a hammer, it takes a while for the beak to grow out completely and lose the bruise. It was a serious bruise, it may not grow out but it will not affect the bird. He can still eat, climb, play etc.
As for being physically touched, that is completely the preference for individual birds. While you can 'work' on trying to gently touch the bird it may or may not come around. Generally speaking, most Green Rumps are not as physically affectionate as Pacifics and don't like physical contact. Contrary to the assertions of people, Green Rumps are not 'sweeter' than Pacifics. They are just more timid and shy and therefore less apt to be confrontational and nip. However, being shy and timid also often keeps them from wanting physical contact.
Hope this helps!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>
Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-5686207657618058482014-02-01T13:43:00.000-08:002014-02-01T13:43:33.823-08:00Identification of Male Pacific ParrotletDear Sandee,
My name is Judy, and I am from Wisconsin. I am asking for your help and expertise. I lost my beloved little parrotlet last Sunday. He had been my trusted and faithful companion for the past nine years. He succumed to an accident, and I am absolutely heart broken. He was an exceptional bird with a big personality and heart. My life will not be the same without him. I had been to a local pet store to pick up seed for our cockatiels nine years ago when I first spotted my little Beaker in a fish tank. He looked so tiny and lost. When I approached, he followed me everywhere. When taken out of the tank, he immediately climbed on my shoulder and stole my heart. It was love at first sight, and he came home with me that day.
I am looking to purchase another little bird to love. I have enjoyed your book on parrotlets and wonder if youl have birds for sale at this time. Also, I am confused about the sex of my little Beaker. Beaker was a green celestial parrotlet that the store sold to us as a male. He was olive green with a very faint small area of turquoise blue just behind the eyes but not on the head. His face and underside were lighter with a slight yellow wash. His back side and head almost seemed to have a very light grayish wash. He had absolutely no blue on or under his wings, He did have cobalt blue with indigo highlights on the back rump when you moved his wing feathers. His primary feathers had no blue and from the underside were grayish. The underside coverlets were emerald green. He was a little smaller and shorter than my daughter's green female parrotlet. She is more pear shaped (seems wider below the chest extending into pelvic area). Beaker was sleek all the way. However, when he puffed up, his chest appeared wider. We have pictures that we have posted, and are getting conflicting responses as to Beaker's sex.
I have been told that some male green celestial parrotlets do not have blue on their wings. Is this true? Other say that evidence of a cobalt indigo rump, even though no blue was on the wings, is still indicative of a male. We have also been told that both male and female celestial can have the cobalt-indigo rump, The only way to differentiate the male from the female is by the absence of blue on the wings. I did look at Beaker's wings after he died. There was no significant blue anywhere on his primary top and underside feathers. The coverlets on the under side were emerald green but only one tiny feather among the coverlets above the first primary feather on each wing had a faint turquoise wash--but only one little father in the underside coverlet of each wing. Is that significant? Now, I am totally confused at to Beaker's sex.
I would greatly appreciate your expert advice and am hoping that you have that little bird that we are so desperately are looking to adopt into our loving home.
Thank you, in advance, for you help.
Judy
<i>Dear Judy:
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your bird. It is always so heartbreaking to lose these little guys. Nine years is a long time for a parrotlet to live these days and I am sure that every day with you was filled with kindness, love and happiness for your little guy. I hope you can find comfort in that.
I do not breed parrotlets any longer as more than 30 years of hand-feeding parrotlets has given me terrible arthritis in my thumb so I can no longer depress a syringe and feed them.
The male Pacific parrotlet is one of the easiest birds to visually sex. Even in color mutations including the albino, the dark cobalt blue on the wings, rumps, backs and streaks behind the eyes are always distinctive and easily observed. In albinos, this coloring can be seen when the bird is placed under a UV light where the color is striking and vibrant. There is no mistaking a male Pacific. Unfortunately, anyone with a keyboard, an opinion and Photoshop can be an expert when it comes to being on the Internet. Now, females from the subspecies of Pacific known as ‘lucida’ often have blue on their rumps, backs and streaks behind the eyes but rarely on the wings. Even if they do, it is always much fainter than the blue on males. This is often the case where people think they have a male because the rump is dark blue but the wings are green; again the bird is not male at all but a female lucida. Unfortunately, hardly ANYONE who has parrotlets these days ever saw a single wild-caught parrotlet. I raised wild-caughts for 15 years before they were no longer allowed to be imported. As someone who saw them come directly out of quarantine (plus we had NO color mutations in the US at the time) ALL male Pacifics have dark blue rumps, wings, backs and eye streaks. If any of those parts of not blue, the bird is a hen.
If you are still confused you are welcome to send me a picture. I can identify your bird in an instant.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-43854714311637632072014-01-08T12:44:00.000-08:002014-01-12T10:05:58.799-08:00Diminishing Parrotlet LifespansGreetings Sandee, I read on your blog that Parrotlets used to live to 20 or older but now usually only make it to 10. I was wondering why that might be, and two possible causes came to mind. First, maybe it's because all the birds have become more or less inbred since 1992. Second, maybe the grains their pellets are made from are having an effect. Soy and corn have become mostly all GMO in the last twenty years, and virtually all our wheat now comes from a hybrid that was developed in the 1970s. This wheat has been giving a lot of trouble to a high percentage of us humans who eat it (see "Wheat Belly Blog" online). So maybe, since birds are such fragile creatures, which have never eaten these grains in the wild, these "frankenfoods" are having a negative impact on them too. My 6-year-old PP "Cootie" loves quinoa, so I've been increasing the amount of that that I give him. Opinions? I really enjoy reading your blog!
Vickie
<i>Dear Victoria:
Thank you for your message and your very kind words.
The problem with shortening lifespans in parrotlets in captivity has to do with several factors.
Yes, many of the birds are inbred and closely related. This happened before the Wild Bird Conservation Act but certainly that was part of the problem. I remember a friend, prior to the passage of the WBCA in 1992, bought 3 Green Wing macaws. One came from California, one from Florida and the other from Texas. DNA testing proved all three birds were related. So it isn't just because of the WBCA, it also had to do with a limited genetically diverse captive population prior to its passage.
The second biggest problem was human greed and ego. When the color mutation Pacifics started being imported back in the mid-1990's many people got rid of their other species and normal Pacifics in order to breed pretty new colored birds. Not only could they make 10 or more times the amount of money per bird as a normal Pacific or Green Rump or Spectacled, they also could make new colors by combining them, therefore 'creating' new mutations that gave them recognition and 'fame' for lack of a better word. By the time people realized that the mutations were so plentiful that their prices had fallen into the basement, it was too late to breed the other species as most were all but disappeared from American aviculture (especially the less common species of Mexicans and Blue Wings).
Mutations are genetically abnormal birds. In the wild, Nature usually 'weeded' out these birds. However, we humans like the abnormal colors so we bred more of them which, with mutation breeding, means lots of line-breeding (if you are doing it 'right') or more often than not 'inbreeding'. Line breeding means breeding cousin birds and inbreeding is breeding siblings and parents to offspring. Very few of these people outcrossed them to normal or wild-type parrotlets. Again, by the time people realized they were getting incorrectly sized birds, bad feather conditions and loss of fertility as well as birth defects, it was too late to find normal, wild-type Pacifics to breed out some of these genetic defects.
As for GMO's and that kind of thing, I have no idea. I'm not a scientist. However, I do know that unless you are feeding pelleted diets, most bird seeds to not contain a lot of GMO's. Most pelleted diets are manufactured from corn, something I have avoided for more than a decade to feed both myself and my birds due to its low nutritional value and high sugar content. Most bird seeds do not contain soy. But, even if it did, I would say it would be affecting ALL birds not just parrotlets so I doubt that has as much to do with it.
As for being 'fragile' nothing could be farther from the truth. Parrotlets are little tigers. They are aggressive, territorial and not only survive in very harsh environments where everything eats them, they are thriving and expanding their range in their countries of origin. Indeed, in a lot of places they are considered 'pests' in that they nest under the eaves of houses, in attics, barns and are often seen in cities hanging out much like pigeons in the US. Not to mention they also descend upon farms destroying all those crops of grains, wheat, sunflower, etc. So they do indeed consume grains in the wild.
Hope this helps!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-79835452561699043572014-01-08T12:22:00.004-08:002014-01-08T12:22:56.754-08:00Parrotlet Aggression with Other Animals Hello,
I am thinking of getting a parrolet and have read that they can be aggressive towards other animals and that they would need to be separated from other pets. I have a dog and a cat. Would this mean that I shouldn't consider bringing a parrolet into my home as I would have to keep them separated?
Thank you.
Angie
<i>Dear Angie:
Thank you for your email. Yes, parrotlets can be aggressive and territorial with other animals, however, your parrotlet is in MUCH more danger from your dog and cat than they are from the bird. Dogs and cats are predators and it is part of their instinct to kill other animals especially small birds. They may not do it when they are together for 100 times but that 101 could be the time they decide its time to eat the bird. Furthermore, cats have bacteria in their saliva and claws that can kill a bird with one bite or one swipe.
This doesn’t mean you can’t get a parrotlet (I have/had several dogs and cats with no mishaps because I am careful. So long as you have a good sturdy cage, keep them physically away from one another, keep the parrotlet’s wings clipped and always supervise them when the bird is out of its cage, they will be find.
Hope this helps!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
________________________________________
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-29454623370180732392014-01-08T12:15:00.002-08:002014-01-08T12:15:42.511-08:00Proper Temperatures, The Parrotlet Handbook, BreedersI have had birds many years ago and am thinking about getting a parrotlets. I am currently the RESPONSIBLE parent of two dogs-a cavalier King Charles spaniel and a papillon plus I have two horses at home. I am reading about the parrotlets and would like to order the handbook you offer for sale. There is a dear, sweet parrotlets in the XXXXX where I buy my dog food. They are improving and renovating their store but while things get finished, this little, young parrotlet seems a bit chilly because they don't have the windows in yet around their aviary/bird sales area and I almost want to buy this parrotlet to get him in a warmer environment. It bothers me so much to see this! Anyway, I always want to be an informed owner so that is why I may call soon to order your handbook because I want to provide correct care.
Do you sell parrotlets still?? I thought I saw somewhere that someone said they weren't selling them anymore but it could have been a different farm. Thank you for your time. Kathy
<i>Dear Kathy:
Thank you for your email. No, I am no longer breeding parrotlets. 30+ years of hand-feeding thousands of baby parrotlets has taken its toll and I can no longer hand-feed.
I can't comment on whether or not this particular bird is being cared for appropriately or not since I am not there. However, parrotlets can easily withstand temperatures into the 60's and much lower (even 40's) if they are acclimated. Furthermore, windows make things colder not warmer as glass is not well-insulated. In fact, it is a myth that these birds require hot temperatures as they most certainly are in much greater peril when they are too hot rather than too cold; the areas that they come from rarely get above 85 or 90 degrees. Anything above that can kill them unless they have lots of water and the ability to cool themselves.
I am in the process of revamping my website and I hope to have that done shortly. In the meantime you can order my book from Amazon.com or can send me a check in the amount of $15 to The Parrotlet Ranch, PO Box 2842, Aptos, CA 95001 and I'll be happy to send you a signed copy.
Hope this helps!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-23323458502375112892014-01-08T12:06:00.000-08:002014-01-12T10:05:12.437-08:00Spectacled Parrotlet Breeders, Loss of Species and Adding Another ParrotletHello Sandee: I purchased my 2 beloved Spectacled Parrotlets (sisters) in Summer of 2000 from Rachel(?) of ‘Little Big Birds’ in Maryland. I have tried to locate her recently and have been unable to find her or ‘Little Big Birds’. I tried the Link you provide but, no luck. Is she no longer breeding Spectacles? Do you know of any other reputable breeders of Spectacles? I live in Vermont and not sure that my babies will live to 15-20 as they are beginning to show signs of old age but they’re still happily acting like Parrotlets – yacking away and always exploring. Thanks for any info you can provide on Rachel and/or other breeders of Spectacles. Best wishes Marcia
<i>Dear Marcia:
Thank you for your message. Goodness, I think XXXXX got out of breeding parrotlets about 10 years ago. Very unfortunate as she was a wonderful lady who take excellent care of her birds. Even more unfortunate is the fact that there are almost no other species of parrotlets available in the US anymore other than color mutation Pacifics. I know of one person I can recommend that breeds Spectacles. Her name is XXXXXX and her email is XXXXXXXX. She is an excellent parrotlet breeder and I highly recommend her. Be sure and tell her you got her name from me.
Best of luck!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>________________________________________
Hi Sandee; thanks so much for your response. I have emailed XXXX but am so sorry to hear XXXX is not breeding anymore. She was an excellent source of parrotlet information. I am also sorry to hear there are not more Spectacles in the US. I wonder why that is. Anyway, I am not sure I’m looking to get another parrotlet currently because Bunny is pretty possessive of me and would probably be annoyed if I split affections with another parrotlet although I wondered about supervised ‘socializing’ time for both of them – she would certainly like someone who was more adept at preening her than I and my friends are. Anyway, thank you so much for your care for parrotlets. Best wishes Marcia
<i>Dear Marcia:
The loss of all the species of parrotlets in this country is very simple and something that I sadly predicted back in the mid-1990’s. The influence of color mutations and their high prices caused people to dump all of the other species to breed pretty colors. People wanted to buy the pretty colored birds. That, coupled with a very limited population, especially with birds like Spectacles (which only 20 pair came into the country) and the fact the Wild Bird Conservation Act which will not allow normal, non-mutated birds to be imported is why we have nothing but color mutation Pacifics available now. While there a handful of these birds around, they are all inbred and in another 10 years or so, they will all be gone from the US as well. Very sad.
Also, I never recommend getting a parrotlet as a companion for your parrotlet. They are aggressive and territorial and will look at the new bird as a rival or competitor. So, probably best to leave Bunny as an only-parrotlets.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
Dear Sandee: Thanks for your tip on companionship for Bunny. To be honest, I just could not see her being okay with any interruption to her supreme rule of the household. I mulled over a friend because she is slowing down and I thought this would perk her up but, upon reflection probably not in a positive way. She has developed a periodic ‘fainting’ which is frightening when it happens. She appears as though dead (eyes closed, body limp). I hold her, and in minutes, she regains consciousness, starts chirping and attempting (eventually succeeding) to scramble out of my hand. I have taken her to various avian vets – she is not egg bound, no tumors are felt, has not lost weight (if anything she has gained weight), her droppings look good. This seems like a neurological thing…In any event, I think she is too small for anything invasive or traumatic so, I think I will just enjoy her for however long she can hang around. I am very sorry to hear Spectacles did not take off – I realize now how fortunate I was to meet up with Rachael in 2001. Are you aware of any Parrotlet clubs/groups/owners in the New England area? it is nice to have contact with others who have some idea of how wonderful they are. Very best wishes Marcia
<i>Dear Marcia:
Glad to be of help and I think you have made a wise decision. I’m sorry to hear about Bunny’s problems and I agree that its probably neurological and, unfortunately, untreatable. However, that doesn’t mean she can’t continue to have a long and wonderful life with you.
Actually, the only reason you have Bunny is because Spectacles ‘took off’. There were only 20 pairs of birds imported 21 years ago and people worked very hard, in cooperation with the International Parrotlet Society to breed enough of them to even allow any of them to be sold into the pet trade. Had Americans been more like Europeans and continued to work with normal, non-mutated species along with the color mutation Pacifics, we’d still have plenty of birds. But they didn’t, for reasons I previously explained.
There are many bird clubs in the Northeast unlike out West. While none of them are ‘parrotlet specific’ that doesn’t mean they don’t’ have a lot to offer as far as education and keeping abreast of legislative and regulatory issues. They also fundraise to support veterinary and conservation issues and, many of them have annual bird shows. Here is the URL to the Society of Parrot Breeders and Exhibitors that has a list of all affiliated clubs http://www.spbe.org/affiliatedclubs.htm as well as the URL to North American Parrot Society’s affiliated clubs http://www.northamericanparrotsociety.com/?page_id=233 Both organizations are also very educational and offer a lot to members including bimonthly journals and, of course, information on bird shows. These days those are about the only clubs that are still going strong.
Hope this helps and best of luck!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
</i>
Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-44644601512447609202013-09-13T06:34:00.000-07:002013-09-13T06:34:32.559-07:00New Baby Parrotlet with AGY, Watery DroppingsHi, Sandee!
I've owned tame budgies for years, but now I have just one budgie and a sweet baby parrotlet, Pocket. I acquired Pocket at six weeks of age, not knowing that getting a not-quite-weaned baby is a bad idea. However, we have been doing well with that, Pocket and I - he has gradually been gaining weight and seems just about weaned - I still offer formula twice a day (sound OK?).
I took him to an avian vet after the first week for a well-baby check, also because his droppings were occasionally watery, and he just didn't seem to have the same voracious appetite as my budgie. The vet gave him a clean bill of health, except she did say that a small amount of AGY showed up in his dropping. I've bought and read your handbook, but am still a bit concerned about that - do I need to worry at all, or should I not be concerned as long as he continues to thrive?
Also, what in the heck do "normal" parrotlet droppings look like, anyway? He still occasionally has watery droppings (solid wormy part with watery stuff around it, otherwise his droppings are kind of a very moist tan wormy-like thing.
He's pretty adventurous when it comes to trying new foods - is eating some veggies, brown and wild rice, apple, Nutriberries and lots of millet. Sound OK?
Thanks for any help you can give (I feel like such a newbie) - love your blog!
Mary Kinsley
P.S. The budgie and Pocket are kept very separate!
<i>Dear Mary:
Thank you for your message. Little Pocket sounds like a delight!
Most Pacific parrotlets are weaned at six weeks; 7 at the most. It is not unusual for them to revert a bit and accept formula once they have been sold and gone to their new homes due to the stress. However, this is usually something that makes the owners feel better and usually isn’t ‘necessary’ for the bird to survive. Making sure the parrotlet is eating real food is very important at this stage and its always wise to make sure they have as much millet as they wish as well as a wide variety of fresh foods. Millet has both protein and carbohydrates, nutrients needed by baby parrotlets to both grow strong and healthy as well as insure proper nutritional support throughout this transition. The most important things to get the bird to eat are vegetables. Fruit is ok but most parrotlets are not big fruit eaters unless its apple or things that have a lot of seeds in them like kiwi or berries. Greens and cooked legumes are also very important.
Feeding a parrotlet hand-feeding formula will increase the urates (watery) part of the droppings. That is perfectly normal and is what is expected.
AGY is a naturally occurring yeast in all birds and is normal. Again, during periods of stress, their bodies may produce more of it which can be detected in droppings but unless the bird is clinically ill, it is not considered a problem and most vets familiar with it do not believe in medicating the bird. It generally clears up on its own.
Pocket sounds like a very lucky bird to have you as an owner. Best of luck and I hope this helps!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-12511307229462307642013-09-07T11:32:00.000-07:002013-09-07T11:32:16.175-07:00Parrotlet Breeder Referrals, Talking Ability, Small ChildrenThis is Danielle lookin for a awesome breeder for my new baby ..i live in Indiana n have a 4yr old son looking for a sweet n cuddly pretty blue with lots of personality n being able to b taught to talk is important too.
<i>Dear Danielle:
Here are the names of reputable breeders that I can recommend. I have no idea what they have available but they are honest, knowledgeable and will work with you to get you the bird you want. However, I must caution you that parrotlets are not birds that are known for the talking ability. While quite a few learn to talk, there are no guarantees that ANY bird will learn to talk including the world’s best talking parrots such as Amazons or African greys. I always tell people to buy a bird that is well-socialized and a good pet. IF you can teach it to talk, so much the better but please never buy any parrot with the expectation it will learn to talk unless its already learned to talk when you purchase it. Also, it is very important for the safety of the bird that anytime it is out with your child, you are supervising their interaction. A 4 year old is very young and can easily injure or kill a parrotlet quite by accident. This is not only horrible for the bird but it could traumatize your child. It takes only a second for an accident to happen so its imperative that the bird never be out with the child unless an adult is present.
Good luck and be sure and tell them I gave you the referral.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-49745868848790832962013-08-09T12:15:00.001-07:002013-08-09T12:15:30.833-07:00New ParrotletHi Sandee,
I have a blue pacific male that is about three and a half months old. I've had him for a little more than two weeks. I have been working with him every day to teach him to step up and I have had some success. My problem is he is very evasive. I know that parrotlets can be aggressive with their cages, which he is, but once I get him out of the cage he still tries to get away from me. His wings are clipped, but he still tries to fly back to his cage and get away from me. I also got him a play stand to spend time out of his cage on, but when I put him on it he just tries to fly back to his cage. I have been putting him on a towel in my lap and just tried spending time with him but he is so aggressive. He is constantly trying to bite me, though when he bites its never really painful. He opens his mouths and spreads his wings and strikes at my fingers or he will just put my finger in his mouth without biting down hard. I try to pet him but he is constantly trying to attack my fingers. My breeder told me that he was hand fed, but I'm starting to wonder if that is truly the case. Can you offer me some advice?
Regards,
Jon
<i>Dear Jon:
Thank you for your email. Poor little guy. Sounds to me like he is very, very frightened. Two weeks is not a lot of time for a young bird to adjust (please see my page on my site entitled “Bringing Baby Home”) and get used to all the new and frightening things going on. He has a new cage, new people, new perches, new toys, no siblings and everything familiar to him is gone. You will find lots of tips on that page to deal with his behaviors and how to reassure him that everything is ok.
As for him being hand-fed, he absolutely is. Remember that parrotlets are not domesticated like dogs and cats or even cockatiels. They need to be imprinted on people instead of birds. If this bird was not hand-fed, I can pretty much guarantee you would not be able to handle him at all and his biting would be as hard as he could which would break the skin. He also would not let go and would probably scream and beat himself up trying to get away from you. To me, he is simply acting like a normal parrotlet that is trying to adjust to a lot of new things. He needs patience, consistency and understanding.
One thing I would do is when you are working with him, take him into an unfamiliar room. He will be much more dependent on you if you are the only thing that is familiar to him. Let him perch on your finger and jump off if he wants. Don’t try and restrain him as that will cause him to bite, usually harder and harder until you let go. Just let him jump off and pick him back up and let him do it until he gets tired. Once he is tired you can work on the Step Up command and doing ‘ladders’ and other things that would be fun for him.
I think he is going to be a great pet parrotlet once he settles in, calms down and you can do a little training for him. Remember he is a 4” baby bird that needs to always be on guard to make sure he isn’t eaten or killed. Its nothing personal. Just they way Nature designed these little guys so they could exist in the wild.
Best of luck and let me know how it goes!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
Salman, </i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-37969017096207159532013-08-04T10:44:00.000-07:002013-08-04T10:44:12.555-07:00Mexican Parrotlets, Green Rump Parrotlets, Touring Your Facility, More Than One Pet Parrotlet
Hello,
I am extremely interested in acquiring two parrotlets. I have previously owned a yellow napped Amazon, two sulfur crested cockatoos, and many cockatiels over the years. Now all I want are two wee parrotlets. I'm interested in both the Mexican and the Green Rump. I would like to have two so that they can be companions when I am away...though I am retired and at home a goodly amount of the time. My curiosity has to do with the advisability of housing two together. Might it be better to have two females, as I did with my cockatoos (they got along famously), or would it be better to have a mated pair? Two males just seem understandably out of the question...LOL...I have an entire room that would be their room, where they would have no fear of intruding cats or dogs. My cats are ancient and the dogs live outside. I very much miss having birds; they were such a joy in my life. I shall be in Aptos the 5th and 6th of August for some medical care and would love to come to your facility, if it is acceptable to you? I'd love to take two away with me, preferably ones that still require some hand feeding so that they would bond with me, as so many of my previous avian friends did. Might I inquire how much they cost, and have you equipment there for purchase? Or should I prepare, in advance, with purchases made up here (Santa Rosa)? Either way is acceptable to me. Do, please, advise...
Its better to reach me at karenhaskamp@gmail.com, as this sonic address is just too jammed with extraneous emails!!!
And, I can be reached at 707-888-6064
I'm really quite excited at the prospect of bringing two babies home, but old enough to be separated from their parents! Oh, I'll need your proper address, if it's OK for me to come visit...
Thank you for your time, and I do look forward to meeting you.
Karen
<i>Dear Karen:
Thank you for your emails. Sorry for the delay in responding.
Mexican parrotlets always were extremely rare and because of that I never sold them as pets but only worked with zoos and members of the International Parrotlet Society’s cooperative breeding program in order to preserve them. Unfortunately, Mexican parrotlets were always the most difficult parrotlets to work with so even before color mutation Pacifics were introduced in the mid—1990’s, they were always rare. Now they are all but non-existent in the United States anymore and are considered ‘genetically extinct’ in this country.
Unfortunately, the same fate, people dumping all of their species of parrotlets except for color mutation Pacifics, has resulted in the demise of once common species such as Green Rumps and Spectacles; even wild-type (normal) Pacifics are almost impossible to find these days. I do know two breeders of Green Rumps that I can recommend but both are on the East Coast and you would have to have them shipped. That is no issue for the birds as the airlines take excellent care of them and in 30 years I’ve never had a bird arrive with a feather out of place let alone injured or killed.
I never recommend that people purchase two parrotlets to keep each other company. Parrotlets are very aggressive and territorial birds and even if you get two birds at the same time and they grow up together, in all likelihood, one will become dominant over the other and become aggressive it. “Share’ is not a word in the parrotlet vocabulary and they look at the other bird as a rival and a competitor not a companion or friend. Usually the dominant bird will not allow the other bird to eat, perch or play and can injure or sometimes kill the other bird. If you would like two parrotlets as companions for yourself, that’s fine. Just make sure each bird has their own cage and is supervised when it is out with the other bird. Otherwise, pet parrotlets do best as single birds in one household. So long as they have a large cage, lots of toys and daily interaction with their owners, they are just fine. They are not like cockatoos or other birds that need the socialization of others of their kind. They are aggressive, territorial and will defend their cage, home, even person with an intensity that is difficult to comprehend unless you’ve seen it.
In 35 years, I have never sold an unweaned bird. Not even to experienced hand-feeders of parrotlets. Parrotlets do not bond with their hand-feeder but bond with the person or birds that they are placed with after weaning. Also, it is very stressful and an unnecessary health risk to the bird to place it with another hand-feeder as even if you use the same formula and keep it in the correct temperature, they often suffer from stress by simply being placed in a new environment before they are physiologically ready.
I also do not let people into my breeding aviary. This is to protect my birds from stress and disease. I have worked with USDA to establish biological protocols to protect people’s birds by following the closed-aviary concept and no one goes into my breeding aviary but me. Also, these are breeding birds and it would stress them greatly to have strangers coming into their secured place looking at them so I never allow people into my aviary.
Finally, I want to say that I am currently not breeding parrotlets as I have severe arthritis in my thumb from hand-feeding thousands of baby parrotlets over the decades and need surgery on it. I do not know if I will be breeding again but if I do, I will have a waiting list. In the meantime, I would be happy to recommend some breeders to you from out of state if you would like. They are extremely reputable as I only recommend people I would do business with.
Best of luck with your procedures and I hope this helped!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-41619148733490595242013-08-04T10:13:00.000-07:002013-08-04T10:20:17.163-07:00Parrotlet Mutations, Adopting Older Parrotlets, Parrotlet BehaviorHi Sandee, I suffered a terrible blow today. I was told I would be looking at a hand fed 'halfway socialized' 8 to 9 week old parrotlet, we drove 226 miles round trip for nothing. I called a mile away from the place ( I told her that we were leaving at 930 or 10, and she answered the phone when I was a mile away like I was her best friend, and said 'oh, I'm sorry, I got the age wrong, we got to talking last night and realized he's 4 months old' I said this is a shock but we're a mile away, I'll come see him...he was beautiful, maybe they all are, but skittish, he was flying into cabinet doors to try to get away, although he did like to hide in my long hair, and let me pet him there, he was more than bitey, bitey on a continuous basis, I freed him from the net the breeder's helper used, cause his claws were caught, and he bit me at least a dozen times just for that, the breeder was named Trish, she was an IPS member, said she had 20 years experience, but he was from two blues, which my friend Colette said is not acceptable. I don't know if you know her, she's great, she owns the www.commandobirdies.com. He was bonded with the other young parrotlets, calling to them. I was tempted, after that long drive, but I declined him. I am now thinking of shipping...
Please advise which breeders you recommend, and I will contact them...I want a hand fed socialized baby, just one, as long as it's a male...
THANK YOU! Wendi
<i>Dear Wendy:
Although the age of the bird was older than first indicated, it seems to me that the bird was ‘halfway socialized’ or more accurately was a hand-fed baby that had not been handled in several months and probably would have come around and made a good pet with some work and some patience. The best bonded parrotlet I ever knew was a female who I had hand-fed then put in with other parrotlets until she was 8 months old at which time I gave her to my husband’s friend. Yes, she bit at first but after a couple of weeks, she settled in to her new surroundings and bonded so strongly with her owner that when I took the bird in for a year while he had his house remodeled, she immediately responded to him when she heard his voice. The behavior as you describe is completely normal for a parrotlet that had not been handled in a long time. Also, 4-6 months is when most parrotlets go through their first molt. This poor bird is scooped out of its cage, away from other parrotlets, has at least 4 people in the room with it, two of whom are complete strangers and, of course, its scared and tries to get away only to get caught in a net, which, to a bird, feels like it is going to die. I’d bite too. Also, not sure if the bird’s wings were clipped but if it were flying away, probably not and even the sweetest parrotlet can turn nippy when it is fully-flighted. This bird probably thought the end was near and was doing everything in its power to save itself. After all, these are animals guided by Nature’s instinct to survive. They are not domesticated animals like a dog or cat that has been raised for thousands of years to live with humans. The bird was acting like a completely normal, healthy parrotlet and I’m sure it was stressed and frightened as it could be. That’s why it bit you, not because its mean or hateful. It’s a baby and it was scared for its life.
As for the genetics of breeding a blue to a blue, that has nothing to do with its personality nor is it an indicator of any future possible health problems. Even if it did, unfortunately, people like me who actually outcrossed to wild-types (or even have wild-types) were very, very, rare. You are lucky if you can find ANY parrotlets that don’t have some mutation in the background and most have several. So the days of being able to pick from what would be considered ‘healthier stock’ from outcrossed mutations are over for parrotlets. Just like having any other species available. While species such as Mexican and Blue Wing parrotlets were always uncommon, they are now considered genetically extinct in the US. Even once common species such as Spectacles and Green Rumps are very, very rare and all of them are related. Breeding related birds, inbreeding, will bring about the extinction of a species faster than anything. That is why humans can’t marry their relatives. Mutations contributed to this destruction of the availability of parrotlets in the US because people were greedy (after all, they cost $1000 each when first bred), they are in or linebred in order to establish them, most parrotlet breeders did not outcross to wild—types and they dumped all of their other species in order to either make more money or inflate their egos by producing new pretty colors.
It’s a pretty sad state for someone like me who devoted almost 4 decades of my life to establishing self-sustaining captive populations of all species of parrotlets in the US. This is what also led to the demise of the International Parrotlet Society. People only working with mutations, thinking they can get all of their information for free online and not giving anything back to the parrotlet community. Very sad. I am working on a presentation for several organizations on the demise of bird clubs and how it will ultimately lead to the demise of aviculture.
Best of luck and be sure and let them know I gave you the referral.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
________________________________________
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-27967926194274198272013-08-04T09:43:00.001-07:002013-08-04T09:43:34.220-07:00Parrotlet Sex Preference, Shipping, Availability
Hi there, I am interested in acquiring a pet parrotlet, hopefully a male since males seem to get along better with women when it comes to birds. I live near Sacramento and was wondering if it is feasible to ship or should I just try to make a trip down there to pick up a bird from you. I wonder if a three hour car ride would be too stressful for a new bird.
What do you have available as far as young birds go? I see the cost for shipping seems to be $60? in addition to the price paid for the bird upfront.
Thanks in advance for answering my questions.
Lisa
<i>Dear Lisa:
Thank you for your email. I've bred parrotlets for almost 40 years and it has never been my experience that a male parrotlet prefers a female owner or a female prefers a male. The best indication of pet personality is a) the bird's own individual personality and how it likes people b) how it was imprinted (handled & socialized from the nest) and c) how it was trained once it go into the new home. A bird that is a good pet would be a good pet with either women or men.
Shipping is done usually out of state as the birds must be flown to their destinations. Sometimes I will ship in state to San Diego or Los Angeles but because of the type of aircraft required (must have a pressurized, climate controlled cargo area). Shipping to Sacramento would be impossible as the small regional jets do not have that capacity. Also, shipping is much more expensive than $60 as most airlines charge at least $100 or more. As for a three hour car riding being stressful, certainly not for a parrotlet. I know people that take their birds on vacation with them in their cars, RV's, boats and by plane. I even travel with unweaned babies and so long as they are not left in an overheated car, they are just fine.
Unfortunately, after all these decades of hand-feeding thousands of baby parrotlets, I am no longer able to hand-feed as I have severe arthritis in my thumb. I do not know if I will be able to breed them in the future. I'm sorry.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-85856042623221380152013-08-04T09:25:00.001-07:002013-08-04T09:25:52.396-07:00Parrotlet Aviary Sounds CDYou were talking about a CD recording of a parrotlet aviary to stimulate the breeding instinct of a single pair, but I don’t see it as available on your website. Can I order that from you or do you know where I can get one?
Thanks
Jon
<i>Dear Jon:
Sorry for the delay but you can purchase the CD off our website in two forms: audio CD or PC. Here is the URL http://www.parrotletranch.com/products.html The CD’s are listed at the end. Thanks so much!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>
Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-67990822422885655752013-04-12T10:16:00.001-07:002013-04-12T10:17:12.009-07:0013 YO Spectacle Parrotlet IssuesHi Sandee,
I doubt you remember me, but my mother (Doreen Berg) contacted you some 13 years ago for advice on getting my little guy when I was 10. I still have my spectacled Parrotlet, Peppy, he is turning 13 this year. I am emailing you because he recently started to do some strange activity.
It is becoming a frequent morning ritual where I am presented with an angry bird who, as soon as he is uncovered, will make a giant dropping. The first time I saw one of these droppings, I thought that my Amazon parrot had been in Peppy's room. I've read on many forums that this is normal for a bird first thing in the morning, but what makes this concerning is that I know he will be up for quite a while, prior to making these droppings, as he is the one who wakes me up.
He also is spending a lot of time at the bottom of his cage. I feel like he thinks it is his nest... as he'll often regurgitate. I've read in many threads online that this is something to be concerned about.
I took him to the vet recently, and brought up these issues along with his increased aggression to me (which again, on forums mentioned that during mating season would only last up to a week or so.. it's been more like 2 years). The vet suggested that I change his bottoms from shavings to news paper and try to take him off a seed diet (which I have tried to do many times over the 13 years). I am happy to say that I have successfully integrated wet pellets into his fresh fruit daily breakfasts. However, when I switched from shavings to newspaper, he started to chew soiled newspaper, so I switched back.
Help! I am at a loss of what to do and I want to make sure everything is ok with him.
Thanks,
Denna
<i>Dear Denna:
Thank you for your email. I'm not sure where to start except with the advice you are getting online. Please remember that a) most of these people have never seen let alone owned a Spectacled parrotlet b) most of these people have no idea what is like to have a parrotlet that is over 10 years of age and c) anyone with a keyboard and an opinion can make themselves an expert online usually by simply repeating other peoples' information with no idea whether or not it is valid information.
First, it is not normal for a parrotlet to have 'giant' droppings first thing in the AM unless the bird is a hen about to lay an egg. After all, if it was normal, you would have been seeing it all along since you've had the bird for such a long time.
Second, the only parrotlets that have breeding seasons are Mexican parrotlets. All of the other species, including Spectacles, have NO set breeding season and breed all year round. Now, that doesn't mean they don't have certain times of their year when either they are molting or have hormone increases or decreases but there is no such thing as a Spectacled breeding season. Also, your bird is 13 years old. Not likely the bird is exhibiting breeding behavior as it is simply too old and again, if it was, you certainly would have seen this all along in the bird's life.
Being on the bottom of the cage and regurgitating, along with the changes in his behavior by being more aggressive with you, the changes in his droppings and the age of this bird indicate medical not behavioral issues. 13 years old is very old for a parrotlet these days so I'm surprised the vet didn't take blood and check to see if the bird had a geriatric medical condition. Birds are very much like people and can and do get diabetes, gout, kidney and heart failure. A 13 yo parrotlet exhibiting the kind of behavior and symptoms, especially one that has been eating primarily a seed diet all of its life, indicates to me either diabetes or kidney issues.
I wish I had better information for you but you asked for my expert opinion and the is what I believe the problem is. I hope you find comfort that your parrotlet has lived a very long, happy life with you. He may have a few more years with you but 13 yo parrotlets are very rare these days. I wouldn't make a lot of changes in his diet or other stressful changes that may exacerbate his condition.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
Join the International Parrotlet Society, – the World’s Largest and Oldest Parrotlet Organization www.internationalparrotletsociety.org
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-74019513742726687122012-07-26T08:54:00.004-07:002012-07-26T08:54:55.099-07:00Adopting a ParrotletGood morning!
We are vacationing 20 minutes north of your ranch and we have been looking for a parrotlet to adopt for a number of months now. Imagine our surprise to find your ranch is just down the road! :) Do you have any parrotlets available for immediate adoption?
Thank you in advance, Dan and Cheralyn
<i>Dear Dan and Charalyn:
Thank you for your email. I know people like to use the term 'adoption' when they are purchasing a bird because it is becoming a member of the family. However, as both a professional breeder that breeds and sells parrotlets as well as the founder of a non-profit organization that also runs a parrotlet adoption program, I must clarify that the difference. Legally, my business, The Parrotlet Ranch, does not offer adoptions but I do sell birds. I am very proud of my skills and professionalism as a parrotlet breeder of almost 30 years. The International Parrotlet Society, the non-profit organization, does run an adoption program and while we will attempt to adopt a parrotlet from anyone only members may adopt.
All that being said, I have no parrotlets available at this time. I always have a waiting list for birds and currently it is 6 months or longer in length.
Also, the International Parrotlet Society does not have any birds currently available for placement.
I am so sorry. Best of luck to you.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
Join the International Parrotlet Society, – the World’s Largest and Oldest Parrotlet Organization www.internationalparrotletsociety.org
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-26039466290936774702012-07-26T08:44:00.001-07:002012-07-26T08:44:21.205-07:00Chronic Egg-Laying in Female Pacific ParrotletHi Sandee,
I sent you an email before Christmas respecting my female parrotlet, Skye. She has now laid her fourth clutch since September 2011. She has laid a total of 19 infertile eggs! I have an appointment with the vet on Thursday, and she is going to administer Luperon in order to try to shut down the egg laying process. But, I do have a concern. Skye has started laying another clutch and laid her first egg yesterday morning. She usually lays 5 eggs. I’m afraid that if she gets an injection there may be an egg forming in her body and, Skye may become egg bound. Should I delay the hormone shot until she has finished laying all her eggs?
I did everything you suggested in your previous email. But I think I may be the problem. Skye thinks I am her mate and absolutely loves me. I love to kiss her little head. Should I stop handling her?
Thanks for your help. It is sincerely appreciated.
By the way, will there be a parrot show in Victoria this year?
Kind regards,
Sylvia
<i>Dear Sylvia:
Thank you for your email. I can’t answer your question because I have never had a bird get Lupron shots. I would make sure you do all the research you can but in all actuality, no one knows what the answer is. Unfortunately, most avian medicine (and certainly Lupron administration is right up there) is more of an art than a science and most of the time, they really don’t know what the outcome is going to be. If you read my article on Lupron, even vets that are pro-Lupron admit it is at best a ‘bandaide’ and not something that can be reasonably relied upon to manage the issues for which it is usually prescribed. However, 19 eggs is a lot and I would certainly, under these circumstances, give the shot if everything I had tried (reducing daylight hours to less than 10, removing all nest-like structures and providing extra calcium in her diet) didn’t work. I would ask your question of your vet – I would think it might be a problem but again I’m not a vet nor do I have any experience using Lupron in my birds.
As for bonding, bonding isn’t what makes birds lay eggs. All birds think their owners are their ‘mates’. Kissing the bird on the head I wouldn’t think would stimulate egg laying at all. Generally, in large birds such as Amazons, petting them on their backs can trigger a hormonal response but I have no idea in parrotlets. After all, they may be parrots but they are all different species.
I will say that in 30 years, this is only the 3rd or 4th parrotlet I’ve ever heard of that couldn’t be managed with environmental changes to stop egg laying. It simply is not a common problem in parrotlets. I know that doesn’t make it easier for you but I am a honest breeder and don’t make up things or rely on what I’ve read online and repeat it. If I don’t have experience with something, I say so and this is a very unusual problem in parrotlets.
As for a bird ‘show’ not sure what you mean. I don’t believe the Parrot Symposium is going on this year, haven’t heard anything about it. As for bird shows, i.e., sanction competitions, I haven’t heard anything and as for bird marts, those things go on all the time. I’m sure if you look online, you can find one.
Best of luck and let me know how it turns out.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
Join the International Parrotlet Society, – the World’s Largest and Oldest Parrotlet Organization www.internationalparrotletsociety.org
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase </i>
I will keep you posted. Have a wonderful weekend.
Sylvia
<i>Thanks. Yes, please let me know.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
Join the International Parrotlet Society, – the World’s Largest and Oldest Parrotlet Organization www.internationalparrotletsociety.org
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>
Dear Sandee,
Thank you for taking the time out of your busy day to answer my questions.
The vet also said that the underlying problem has to be resolved, as Lupron may not resolve the problem. I decided to forego the Lupron until Skye has finished her clutch. She has now laid two eggs. Thank you for advising me that this is an unusual problem because I have never owned a female parrotlet before. I have all boys (3).
I got Skye from a rescue organization in Vancouver and the rescuer told me that the girl gave up Skye because she didn’t have time for her. I did email the rescuer and tell her about Skye’s egg laying problem, but she didn’t respond. I’m starting to think she knew Skye had a problem laying eggs. I feel so sorry for this little bird because I know that it is very stressful for her when she is laying an egg. I ensure she has lots of calcium on her food and water. Thank you for being honest with me. I’m not sure what I’m going to do, if she doesn’t stop laying the eggs. I will try restricting the light situation for more hours. I will make the bottom of her cage uncomfortable for her, as I have paper towels on the bottom right now. Last time, I had a little hut in her cage and she laid eggs in it. That has now gone.
I’m glad that kissing her head is ok because I love this little bird. She is so sweet.
Yes, I was referring to the Parrot Symposium. I hope the Parrot Symposium comes back again.
I will let you know what transpires with Skye.
Many thanks again for your kindness. I have the highest respect for you as a breeder.
Kind regards,
Sylvia
<i>Thank you Sylvia for your very kind words. Best of luck. Please keep me posted.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
Join the International Parrotlet Society, – the World’s Largest and Oldest Parrotlet Organization www.internationalparrotletsociety.org
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>
Hello Sandee,
I hope you, your family and little parrolets are all keeping well.
I would like to give you an update on Skye, my female rescue parrotlet, who was laying unfertile eggs non-stop.
Skye finished laying another clutch of 6 eggs in March. I took her to a vet for a check-up, and he recommended the Luperon shot, if I wanted it. He also told me that the parrotlets are up and coming prolific egg layers! He gave me various suggestions (same as you suggested), in order to help her stop laying eggs. I decided to forgo the Luperon shot.
I remember you telling me that these little birds are hardwired, and it is best to leave the eggs; so that is what I did. Skye has been sitting on the eggs since March. She even pecked two eggs, in order to make small holes (interesting). I took all the eggs away, except two, three weeks ago. She is finally fed up with sitting on the eggs and is now interacting with me, grooming herself and sleeping on her highest perch (thank goodness). I am still leaving the two eggs in the bottom of the cage just in case. She is such an intelligent little bird and very loving.
Thanks again for your advice; I thought you would like to know the outcome of the chronic egg laying.
Best,
Sylvia
<i>Thanks so much Sylvia for letting me know. Glad to have been of help!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
Join the International Parrotlet Society, – the World’s Largest and Oldest Parrotlet Organization www.internationalparrotletsociety.org
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-79367195268283904072012-07-18T11:25:00.001-07:002012-07-18T11:25:12.614-07:00Why Does My Parrotlet Bite When I'm Changing Her Food and Waterwhy does my parrotlet bite whenI change her water and food?
<i>Because parrotlets are aggressive and territorial especially when it comes to their cage. You should get water tubes/drinkers as well as food dishes that can be accessed from outside the cage without you needing to stick your hand in the cage. If you do have to put your hand in the cage, you have remove the parrotlet.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
Join the International Parrotlet Society, – the World’s Largest and Oldest Parrotlet Organization www.internationalparrotletsociety.org
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
________________________________________
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-2486380468471147742012-07-17T08:21:00.001-07:002012-07-17T08:21:31.532-07:00Importing LovebirdsHello, in October I will be flying from Athens greece to boston logan airport.
I have 2 lovebirds. can I bring these with me on the plane ?
i do not know yet what airlines i will be flying on .
what would i need for these birds if i can bring them with me?
iam worried about quarentine policies. iam affraid even with proper documents i will have trouble at the airport and have to leave them behind.
also this trip is a one way trip. I will be moving to the state of massachusets and not returning to greece
<i>Dear Olga:
Thank you for your email. It is against international law to fly with pets in the cabin other than service animals. They will have to be shipped in the cargo hold - which is pressurized and climatized. I've been shipping parrotlets for two decades and it is completely safe if you following the directions I have published in my books and online (they are too lengthy to put into an email).
You will need export permits from Greece as well as CITES (international documents regarding rarity status), veterinary certification, import permits and licenses and other documents as required by the US. You will have to prove that you have owned this bird for more than a year and the process usually takes months. You need to check with US Fish & Wildlife on all the licensing and permits; US Dept. of Agriculture for quarantine and testing. The birds will have to be placed in quarantine and tested at your expense.
The process is neither easy nor inexpensive and this is because the United States does not allow the import of birds except under extremely limited circumstances. However, since these birds are a pet and while you did not say what kind of lovebird, if they are Peach Faced, then it will be much easier to get them into the country than one of the rarer species. You are correct however, if there are any problems or discrepancies in the documentation you will not be able to bring the birds with you so you will need to make absolutely 100% sure you follow every rule and requirement to the letter.
Best of luck to you.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
Secretary, International Parrotlet Society
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-89810628245208026692012-07-16T14:31:00.002-07:002012-07-16T14:31:50.332-07:00Questions on Pair Feeding ChicksSandee, I have a pair of green pacific parrotlets. They have 3 newly hatched young, about 4 days old. In checking on the young over the past few days, their crops have been full. Yesterday I noticed that the male was in the nest box. I didn’t see him out of the nest box yesterday and he is still in there today, huddled over the hen. The babies’ crops look empty. It has been extremely hot in our house and I have kept fans going but the house has been over 80 degrees during the day but it did cool off yesterday. Should I intervene? Maybe give the hen some electrolytes? Take the male out of the box? Handfeed the babies? I have handfed before but not such tiny ones. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, Kathy B.
<i>Dear Kathleen:
Its best to leave them alone. The more you disturb them and that means looking at them, the more likely they are to abandon the nest or even kill the chicks. This is especially true in a first clutch. They are nervous and inexperienced but your interference will bring up their predator/prey reaction and they will most likely just abandon the chicks. I know we humans like to think that we things go better when we are involved, but that isn’t true when it comes to raising parrotlets. Handling the chicks or the parents will almost certainly result in them abandoning or killing the offspring. That is how they survive in Nature. Better to abandon the nest if it is disturbed than get eaten by a predator. Eating offspring will give the parents the energy needed to lay another clutch. I know this seems barbaric to humans but that’s why they are animals. Nature guides them by instincts that have evolved over millions of years and keeping them in our homes, doesn’t change that. They are still very much wild animals that react on instinct – they are not domesticated like cockatiels or budgies to accept human interference. Also, with a first clutch you do not want to stress them out and have them possibly never be good parents. As for the heat, these birds originate near the equator – unless its over 100 degrees I sincerely doubt they will be affected by it. Remember, sometimes the hardest thing to do, is nothing.
Best of luck.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
Join the International Parrotlet Society, – the World’s Largest and Oldest Parrotlet Organization www.internationalparrotletsociety.org
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-75390969282057255762012-07-11T11:09:00.003-07:002012-07-11T11:09:32.787-07:00Spraddle Leg ParrotletGood morning, I have 3 babies that I have been hand feeding for about 2 1/2 weeks. This is my first time. They are all doing well except for one that I'm concerned about, maybe overly concerned. One of them his legs splay out to the sides as if it can't get it's legs under him to walk. The other 2 seem all right. Is this something to be concerned about or will it eventually learn to get them under him? I'm the only one that handles them and I have never dropped or squeezed so i don't understand. He eats very good like the others and doesn't seem to be in any pain. He can move it good and there doesn't appear to be anything wrong with either of the legs. thank you for your time. Patti
<i>Dear Patti:
Thank you for your email. What you are describing is called ‘spraddle leg’ and it is something that is extremely serious as it severely handicaps the bird and it will be deformed for the rest of its life. It is almost always caused by not having enough porous nesting material in the nest box or in containers provided by the hand-feeder. It is for this reason that I have written in my 3 books as well as hundreds of articles on breeding parrotlets that it is vital to keep copious amounts of nesting material (and untreated wood shavings are the best – after all, it was what birds have been evolved to use for millions of years) in the nest box and replace it if the parents knock it out. Also, you must keep the chicks on these wood shavings in order to properly develop their hips, legs, feet and joints. I’m not sure if at this point this can be corrected but you will need to bring that bird into a vet immediately. Sometimes, if it is caught early enough, it can be treated by hobbling the legs together or placing them in certain kinds of restraints but it is simply better to avoid the problem all together by providing the correct amount and type of nesting material. But I would get that bird to a vet who specializes in birds immediately. If it cannot be corrected, the bird will be crippled and unable to walk for the rest of its life.
Please let me know how this works out and best of luck.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
Secretary, International Parrotlet Society
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-16745377360043872712012-07-08T11:46:00.001-07:002012-07-08T11:46:18.322-07:00Determing Age by Iris ColorHello, I rescued a female Parrotlet , this past March, she was flown to a lady that was suppose to get a male, the breeder did send the male , the next day and told her to keep the female. The lady didn't want to keep the female, so I offered to take her. She was suppose to be a baby and her iris show and around that is gray, so her eye's are not all black like my male, when I got him as a baby. Is there any way you can tell a Parrotlet's age? She isn't real friendly, and also was suppose to be hand fed. I do know she is not a baby.
Thank you,
Evelyn
<i>Dear Evelyn:
Thank you for your email. Once a parrotlet has reached the age of 6 months, you cannot determine age by visual inspection. Also, parrotlets have different colored iris’ – some are light, some are dark and they are often different colors. This is especially true in color mutations including splits. You say you got this bird in March? It had to be at least 6 to 7 weeks old at that time as that is when they wean. Therefore, the bird absolutely could have been a baby when you got it in March. It would now be around 6 months old so the iris would have changed color. And while it is not a ‘baby’ it certainly could be a young bird.
Also, just because a bird ‘isn’t friendly’ doesn’t mean it wasn’t handfed. In fact, unless the bird is screaming, flinging itself around the cage and biting so hard it draws blood and doesn’t let go, you can be assured it was hand-fed. Hand-fed doesn’t mean the bird is a good pet; it only means it was hand-fed and therefore isn’t afraid of people. Doesn’t’ mean it likes people or wants to be around people or that it would be a good pet. It only means that it was fed by a human. That is why I always tell people to evaluate the breeder and make sure it is one who not only hand-feeds but imprints their birds and is honest enough to sell a human-friendly bird as a pet. Not one that was just hand-fed. Its never fair to the bird to sell it as a pet when it prefers the company of other birds and not people.
Hope this helps!
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
Join the International Parrotlet Society, – the World’s Largest and Oldest Parrotlet Organization www.internationalparrotletsociety.org
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613990024309306355.post-25448379254333345992012-06-27T11:45:00.002-07:002012-06-27T11:45:33.875-07:00What's a Split Tail Parrotlet? Why Do Pet Shops Charge More Than Breeders?Sandee,
I found your website (very informative) recently while looking for some info on Parrotlets. I found a sweet girl (not sure if it's a girl ;) ) accidentally at the local pet shop. I found out she is about 4 years old and has been there two years!!! I don't relish the idea of buying from a pet store however, she is SO sweet. She seems to have so much personality. She's quick to "chat" with me and comes right to the side of the cage. She does not seem to bite and just wants to play! She grabbed my heart. They are asking $300 for her! She appears to be a green Pacific. They say the high price is because she is a "split tail". However, when I did some research for a split tail, I couldn't find anything! Is she rare or has a genetic irregularity? Advice?
Sidenote, I asked the same question of Debbie at ___________ and she actually directed me to you. She had never heard of a "split tail" and felt as though the pet store was simply uninformed.
Thanks for your time!
--
Heather
<i>Dear Heather:
Thank you for your email. I'm sure what the pet shop means is that the bird is 'split' i.e., carries a color mutation gene. If you are not going to breed the bird, it is really irrelevant as to the bird's personality or pet quality. However, as a breeder, the bird, when paired with the correct corresponding color mutation, would produce color mutation offspring. For example, if the bird was split to blue, if it were bred with another parrotlet that carried the same blue gene, they would produce visual blue offspring.
As for the price, $300 is a very reasonable amount for a parrotlet being sold in a pet store. When you buy from a breeder, you are paying a 'wholesale' price and therefore the price is much lower. After all, breeders do not have the expenses that pet shops do. Pet shops have to hire people, train them, have a lease and store front to pay for, plus overhead, insurance, taxes, licensing, etc., so of course whenever you buy from a pet shop you would be paying about twice the price of what that bird would cost from a breeder. It's no different than buying anything else wholesale.
Hope this answers your questions.
Sincerely yours,
Sandee L. Molenda, C.A.S.
The Parrotlet Ranch, Owner, www.parrotletranch.com
Join the International Parrotlet Society, – the World’s Largest and Oldest Parrotlet Organization www.internationalparrotletsociety.org
A Chattering Bird Builds No Nest.
Camaroonian Phrase
</i>Sandee Molendahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886713683076976336noreply@blogger.com0