getting my 1st irn

[shaz-skyline]

Hi guys, im hopefully collecting my first irn this weekend and this seems like a great place for advice on looking after them. Ive been reading over the diet section and plan to give a variety of fruit and veg along with seeds, nuts and chicken.

Now im looking for some advice if you can help. Obviously the fruit and veg can only be left in the cage for a couple of hours. Outwith this period do you leave some form of feeding with them or feed regular throughout the day? Sorry I know its a daft question but didnt know if a constant supply of food was a bad thing and would deter them from eating the fresh stuff when placed in the cage.

thanks shaz

[Kimma]

How exciting!

Have you thought of a name yet?

[shaz-skyline]

Im leaving the naming to my daughter and just guiding her on easy ones to say. This is really a joint thing for both of us. I always wanted an african grey and she wanted a bird she can teach. Shes a very old ages 6 so have no issues with her capabilities but got a bird more suitable for her size. Tbh the parrot will no doubt look at me as its owner as im here all day and will be the main handler but with a bit of luck it will let her get involved to.

at the moment max is looking a possible name but waiting till we actually get it before deciding

[Skyes_crew]

Hi and welcome

You can never offer too many fresh fruits and veggies. Foraging is a good way to keep them interested and involved. You don't have to constantly change out their food all day. Make a schedule that suits everyone. IRN's are social eaters and love to be involved in family meals so that's a good way to feed. If you do a search of the forum for foods and feeding it should give you plenty of reading material. Good luck to you and your new family member

[shaz-skyline]

Thanks hun, yeah found a lot of diet ideas which is good. Just wasnt sure if I should have a parrot mix in the cage all the time and then feed him fruit and veg when we were eating. Dont want him going hungry but guess he'll quickly train me to his needs.

doing lots of research in advance as my love birds I had years ago werent hand tame so would be great to start properly and get the socialising correct from the beginning. No doubt ill have lots of questions along the way

[Skyes_crew]

I keep a mix of seed and some pellets available at all times. Then I rotate in the fresh stuff for breakfast lunch and dinner through foraging, or eating with the family. Btw...I love the name max

[shaz-skyline]

Thanks for advice. Going to make sure I have everything for him tomorrow. Made a cover for him today on the chance he needs it to go to sleep. Haha think I done less preparing for my kids

Lol yeah I quite like max and for a 6yr old at least its sensible. Thought id have to talk her out of a double barrelled name

[Dixie-1]

Hi and welcome we leave seed and pellet mix available all day.

[shaz-skyline]

Thanks dixie going to get some mix tomorrow