Ask Lafeber

Time and Love

Hey. I’ve been considering getting a bird for about a year now. The local pet shop in my area offers cockatiels, conures, and parakeets. I am not getting a conure, but I was wondering if I should get a parakeet or cockatiel. I go to school (6:40-4:20) and was wondering if I should get a cockatiel, or parakeet, and if I should get one or two. Other than school, I occasionally have things on the weekends (as ya do) but I have time.

Hi Kristen,

Either species makes a great pet as long as you get a tame, hand fed bird. They can get used to your schedule, but it is important to provide a large cage with plenty of toys. a TV or radio can provide entertainment when you aren’t around. Make sure you stick to the schedule from the start. Many people make the mistake of playing with a new bird a lot, and then suddenly not as much when they have to resume a work or school schedule.

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda