IndianRingNeck.com

Hi all, I haven't been on here for a while! I've got a nine month old male IRN (named Zephyr, he's blue out of a violet father and blue mother) and I've been thinking of getting a second bird, to be 'friends' with him. I know there are no guarantees they'll get along, but for one I would like a second bird, and Zephyr always seems to chatter with the wild parrots in the tree outside his window. I was thinking of getting a second IRN from the same breeder, but i'm not sure whether to get male of female, because after all I don't want to breed. My breeder also currently has some green cheek conures (males only) and a male grass parrot, some lorikeets and some cockatiels. He won't have any IRN's available for a little while, but I wouldn't mind waiting.

I was just wondering if someone can share their experiences on ringnecks being 'friends' with other parrots,and advise what you think the best sort toget would be? or whether Zephyr might be better off without another bird in the house (separate cages though of course).

Thanks

Bobbijo

Hey Bobbijo2354,

I think that really depends on what you want to achieve with your parrot. Your parrot is only 9 months old and is still very impressionable. I keep mine separate for at least a year and half with me as this really helps the bird imprint on me. After the year and a half, no matter how long they stay with other birds they always “prefer” me over any bird. All three of my ringnecks are like that. I can keep them in an aviary with other ringnecks but they always seek my attention.

Now, if you get another bird you have to think about how its going to imprint as well. It could be focused more on the other bird rather then you. Are you willing for this to happen? How about noise? If you enjoy a nice peaceful afternoon and you wish to maintain this—think twice as two birds means double the noise. Same for the mess—you get the idea.

If you spend enough time with Zephyr then I would say you’re fine with only him. If you believe he needs a companion then go for it—but just be prepared .
Also, I would not recommend housing them together until you know each bird’s personality.

Hope this helps my friend ,

Best Wishes,

IMRAN-C