Re: kids and Eclectus

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: Hi Bev! : We have a pair of Solomon Islands eclectus (SIE). These are the smallest of the eclectus commonly found in aviculture. Vosmarie are the largest commonly in aviculture (called VOS for short). : As you have asked a question on this site, I would assume you are doing some homework into eclectus parrots generally in your search for a new family member, so you are finding out about their health, dietary, caging and socialization needs. : I personally think a male eclectus would be a perfect companion parrot for a family. They are intellegent, generally gentle, calm birds and most of them talk. Eclectus are not strong pair bonding birds like macaws, amazons or African Greys. Because of this, they can "bond" easily with many family members. This is not to say that birds will not have a "favorite person" - but they play and interact readily with many people - the key is that the people should not be loud, noisy, blustery, rambunctious, move with sudden, jerky movements, or behave in similar ways. These are scary to birds (and to lots of other creatures, too). Parrots are prey animals and are frightened by things/motions that act like predators. : Having young boys, you could say Oh no! my boys get loud and rambunctious sometimes - does that mean we should not get a bird? No, you can still have birds - as long as the children are generally calm, reasonable kids most of the time while around the bird. Children taught to handle and respect birds (and other creatures) should not have problems with them. Do keep in mind that parrots can and do bite, especially if fingers are wiggling or poking, or if they are frightened or feel threatened. Our male, Chardonnay (Chardy) is generally sweet tempered, but if he puts his beak on my finger to say "That's enough" and I don't respect that, I will get bitten. : Also, all parrots are affected by hormones when they reach maturity. Male eclectus are no exception. This can cause some defensive, territorial behavior which can include some biting - but this is not difficult to learn about or manage as eclectus boys are such mellow fellows. : Parrots are social creatures and must have play and interaction with your family to be happy and healthy. They also live for many years. As such, they are a long term committment/investment in love and time as well as money. Make sure you and your family have the time to spend playing and socializing with your bird. : Back to your question, neither of our eclectus are "one person birds" - they are great with all members of our family (we have no young children). Keep doing your research, and maybe join one of the eclectus lists like The Eclectus Connection to read what other eclectus owners and owners-to-be have to say about their birdies. : I would recommend that, when you have completed your homework and research and have decided what subspecies of eclectus you would like (if it matters - it doesn't to many people)you locate a good breeder and obtain a FULLY WEANED, socialized youngster. Be sure you have an appropriate sized cage and toys ready for him when you bring him home. : I hope these thoughts have been of help to you. Good luck with your research - : Al and Mary : Cabby and Chardy (SIE) : : I'm a stay-at-home mom with two great boys (6 and 8). We're looking to add a new member to our family -- a bird. I'd like a bird that takes to the whole family and not just one person. I keep hearing about how great 'tiels are, but it's the larger, more colorful parrots that really steal my heart. On some Eclectus sites I read that this bird can be a great family bird, and on other sites I get the definite sense that the Eclectus prefers to be a one-human bird. Any light shed on this subject would be most appreciated! : : - Bev

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