by Betty Castleberry

Created on: July 12, 2008

Parrots are never cheap. So what if the breeder gave you a good deal? Trust me, there is no such thing as a "bargain" bird. Usually, the bigger and flashier they are, the more they cost, but the expense does not stop there.

Before you even bring your little feathered bundle home, you will need to purchase a cage. Parrot cages come with a variety of features including special feeding stations, locking doors, and play tops, just to name a few. They also come in an array of beautiful colors. They sound expensive, don't they? That's because they are. A good quality cage can cost at least a gazillion dollars. There is no point in settling for a cheap one, because your bird will have it scuffed and scratched within a few months, if it isn't entirely dismantled. That beak on your baby's face is a natural hack saw. Spend a few extra gazillion and get the best and largest cage you can afford.

After bringing Birdie home, you're going to find that he will not be content imprisoned in his cage all day. Parrots are highly intelligent and want to explore and feel as if they are part of the family. This means you will need several play areas scattered throughout your home so your avian companion can hang out with you. Rolling play stands are a good idea since they are easily moved from room to room. Again, quality is important. A good one can cost a gazillion dollars. You might want to consider at least one hanging play gym somewhere in your home. Be sure to use ceiling protectors made from PVC so your darling can't poke holes in your ceiling.

Your parrot will need toys to stay amused. You will need to purchase a variety to see which type your parrot likes the best. There are toys for foraging, shredding, banging, throwing, and chewing. They are not cheap. Most of them cost a gazillion dollars.

Your home has now been taken over with parrot housing, toys, and equipment, like Kudzu vine takes over the south. Forget your decorating scheme. You might as well go with Birdie Bordello, because that's what you'll have anyway.

Of course your bird has to eat. Never, never assume you can toss a few seeds in his direction and forget him. He needs a good variety of healthy foods. Birds are very sensitive to pesticides, so organic foods are best. You can also buy bird pellets, instant foods to cook for your baby, healthy seed mixes, treats and nuts for your bird. Each of these cost a gazillion dollars. Alternately, you can cook for your baby, but it's probably a good idea to have some commercial

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