Hello!
My fiance and I are looking to buy a macaw, and are doing some research. We were just looking to see if anyone had any advice to buying a macaw for a first time owner. We have only had budgies.
Thanks

I would suggest you start with a baby. In that way, you can "grow" with the baby and it is much less initimidating. Greenwing macaws, as well as Blue & Gold macaws, are excellent choices.

Are you buying from someone local where you can go and visit the bird often?

There is a bird store near by that we have been visiting quite often to get a feel for different birds. Whether we are buying one there we are not sure of. Do you recommend buying from breeders over stores?

That would depend on the reputation of both. There are good breeders and bad breeders and vice versa.

its interesting because somedays I feel real comfortable around the macaws and other days I am not so sure. My fiance seems to do fine however gets bit from time to time. There is usually one bird that kind of attaches to me and I really like. How do you pick a good bird for you?

Dude you are not ready for a macaw.

I think that it is great you are doing your research ahead of time. So many people just jump into it head first, without knowing what they are getting themselves into!

I wasn't ready at all when I got my grey, but we lived and learned! I sure wish I had done a little more research before hand like you are doing now!

Kudos to you!

Keep visiting birds, and handling them until you are comfortable. Don't rush into this!

May I ask why I am not ready for a macaw?... Just didn't understand that statement

How do the macaws do with dogs? I have two, a doberman and a miniature pinscher

John has run a rescue for many years, and has had alot of birds come in that just didnt fit in to a family unit. I think it was just his way to make sure you did your homework and research the species well before bringing one home.

And we are happy you are here and asking questions from people who have them.