Sometimes birds, through no fault of their own find themselves in need of a new home. See Pet Bird Rescue for more information about the rescue shelters that exist due to this problem.

Some owners try to find private homes to take their birds instead of sending them to a rescue. If an older bird becomes available will he/she become a good pet in a second home?

The answer to that question depends on you and it depends on the bird.

You have to understand that this bird is not a baby and therefore has already developed a personality, likes & dislikes. You must be prepared to allow him to adjust to the new situation – possibly a new cage, new surroundings, new people, maybe new pets.

If the bird had a good home where he was loved, well looked after & was happy, but circumstances changed for the owner & they had to find a new home for him, you will have a bird that will be missing the good life that he had. Find out what he likes – his favourite foods, toys, etc. With patience this bird should adjust very well.

If the bird did not have a good home and has developed behavioral problems, such as plucking, you may have to accept that this bird will always pluck. It is possible that the plucking might stop once he becomes accustomed to better treatment and/or a better diet, but bad habits are not easy to break. This bird may take a bit longer to adjust & to accept you in his life, but with lots of patience, he will probably come around in time.

If you have room in your heart and room in your home for a bird (or another bird), think about providing that home to an older bird that is desperately in need of another home. You will have to give him more time to adjust than you would a baby bird, but in most instances, the time spent will be worth it.


If I get information from anyone on their experiences with a second hand bird, I may put up an article with these replies.

After many years of pet bird ownership, I have decided to write e-books about the care of some of these wonderful birds.