Breeder vs Parrot Shop

[elbe]

I originally was going to post this in general, but thought i'd post it here to get some breeder advice:

So i have a deposit down on a CAG at a parrot shop.  I'm doing my reading of grey books now.  One book (Athan & Deter) says that greys are very emotionaly sensitive during the first 16 - 18 weeks of life, more so then say an amazon.  In the discussion on weaning, it says that it's very important it's done correctly to "produce a confident, interactive companion parrot." (page 21)  You don't want to wean them too soon or they'll feel abandoned by their "parent."  So that got me thinking about whether it's okay that there are multiple people (maybe 5 or 6?  i don't know)  hand feeding my parrot right now instead of one breeder.  Is this already off to a bad start in building a self confident bird?  I'm curious if i should continue to get attached to this little fellow who is in town, so i'm able to visit.  Or if i should look into getting one from a breeder out of town (i don't think there are any here in Reno), where i wouldn't be able to visit 2 - 3 times a week.

-elbe

[karine]

Hello there!!

I wouldn't worry too much. When you get your Grey, he will still need to be hand fed somewhat and will quickly get used to you. Getting a bird from a breeder doesn't mean there only will be 1 person to feed him! The most important thing is to have somebody experienced in the weaning process.

[angela13rl]

I think as long as the people that are feeding your baby are knowledable and feed correctly and cuddle with him then you should be fine. He should become a very social little guy. I think when possible it is better to be able to visit several times a week and give him a chance to get know you prior to going home with you. It should make the transition a lot easier on him.
Angela

[PakaBird]

I know this is a bit out of your area being from Reno, but we bought Paka in San Francisco at the Animal Company.

http://www.theanimalcompany.net/

They don't mention African Grey in their add, but they usually have a great selection of Greys, all bred by the owners. Paka was $1000 U.S., 3 years ago, which I believe is still what they sell CAGs for.

For anyone living in the Bay area, I'd highly recommend their trimming service, which is free, except for a suggested donation which goes to local Animal causes. Suggested donations are usually around $8-$10 for a CAG.

Thanks,

PakaBird

p.s. If you ask Paka what HE thinks of their trimming service, he would strongly disagree with my assessment. Talk about a death scream coming out of him when he got his first beak trim.