> Getting two Macaws/Cockatoos?

Getting two Macaws/Cockatoos?

Posted at: 2014-11-15 
You cant put a macaw and a cockatoo in the same cage otherwise they will attack each other. Especially since macaws and cockatoos come from two different continents. They would most likely get along in a open room outside their cages. Since macaws and cockatoos are big birds they might each need seperate cages even if they are the same species. I dont recommend getting such big parrots as first birds because they can be dangerous, really loud and cost a lot of money. I recommend getting a cockatiel or a conure. But if youre really set on the breed get either one macaw or cockatoo. Add more if you feel like you handle more birds. You cant really leave a macaw or a cockatoo at home while youre away because they get really attached and start to scream really loud while youre not there. The birds will most likely not accompany each other while youre away but rather scream in an orchestra as a flock.

Honestly you should start with a smaller bird, those don't make great first birds. If you do want one you should go to a rescue. That way you can see and interact with the bird and you can make sure it like you. I bought my parrot as a baby and it grew up to hate me and bite me all the time, he liked me at first but changed his mind after two years. Get an older bird! How ever there are exceptions, if they are young enough you could put them together right away but would still need to watch them to make sure they get along. Macaws need a big enough cage for their long tails and large wings, basically a small bedroom for them selfs. The cage you describe would only be good for one and would still be small. Remember these birds live to be near 100 years old it's a life time commitment of out of cage time and food and screaming lots and lots of screaming! In short get an older rescue bird or no bird at all.

The birds need to know each other first, you can not put a cockatoo and macaw in the same cage because, the dander of cockatoos is bad for the week respiratory system of the macaws. Also they just don't get along well enough to be around each other all the time. I have an umbrella cockatoo and a greenwing macaw. They tolerate each other, but do not get along well enough to share a cage. I am about to get a pair of Catalina macaws this week. They are brother and sister, 6 months old. They are going to share a big cage, but having macaws is a big commitment, I am 14 and already see the commitment needed. They are all my birds, but it can be stressful with them. For instance, when you go on vacation they have to go with you or be boarded. Sometimes when you want to go somewhere on Saturday night, you can't because they need you. Seriously think about it before you act. I got my Greenwing when I was 10, and my parents were no help. They bought good that was it. But now she is my baby.

I am very interested in getting 2 Macaws or 2 Cockatoos. I have some bird experience, my brother has a lovebird and I helped take care of her for two years before he got married and took her with him. I have been researching everything I can about Macaws/Cockatoos for the last few weaks, and wouldn't be getting them for at LEAST a couple months. I am leaning more towards the Macaws right now, because from what I've learned they tend to be more family friendly. I am still open to Cockatoos, I think they are amazing birds! I am going to be a senior in high school this fall and will be living at home through college. My question is: How can I put the two birds together? I plan on getting a large cage measuring 72 x 48 x 48", which I figure should be large enough for the two birds. They would also both be female, and different breeds of Macaw/Cockatoo(like 1 Scarlet, and 1 Harligold for example). The reason I ask is that I've heard a lot about territory issues when putting these birds in the same cage, then they mame each other. How can I avoid this?! Most people say put them in 2 different cages, but I want them to be friends and keep each other company while I'm at school/work. They would be out of the cage and with me when I'm home. Would I need a bigger cage/aviary? Do they have to be newly weaned babies? Plus, how can I get them to bond with each other, and me at the same time? Any input would much appreciated! Thanks!:)