My name is Marika and I'm considering getting a Quaker Parrot after seeing some in a pet shop yesterday. My boyfriend has experience in keeping budgies and we were considering getting a budgie, but I really liked the cheekiness and comical nature of the Quakers I saw. However I have some questions:

1) From what I understand, getting a Quaker is like having a small child which can live for around 30 years. That's a big commitment! I'm still trying to come to terms if I would be capable of doing that.

2) I work a regular office job in the city, which means I leave the house at about 8am in the morning and generally don't get back until about 7pm during the week. I am concerned that this would mean there's not enough time spent with the bird and it would be lonely. Is this correct?

3) I have been trying to find a breeder in Melbourne, but I can't seem to find anyone. The pet shop I went to was a bit depressing as some of the other birds looked pretty stressed. (I guess the high price tag means they've probably been sitting unloved in the cages for quite some time.)

Any help with information would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Marika

I can't answer your questions but welcome to the group. some one will be along that can answer them though.

I do know that having a bird is like having a child, but they are very rewarding and funny.

can you afford to get 2 fids (feathered kids) seperate cages they would be company for each other ..
If not make sure you have time with your fid in the morning before you go and of a night when you get home ..have breakie with him take him to the shower with you , he will nap during the day and get use to your schedual , spend more time with him on the weekends..Leave a radio/telly on so he has some noise to listen to during the day rotate toys maybe place him so he has a view outside make sure he is not in a window with full sun especially in the summer..

Welcome to a great group to another Aussie..

Welcome to the forum!