The Conure Handbook (Barron's Pet Handbooks)

Rating:
Summary: Covers materials the new Conure owner needs....
Review: I bought this book a while back when my granddaughter Rita became interested in Conures. I thought we were going to get a Conure for her, but we ended up buying a Cockatiel and Grandma got the Conure. I have four Cockatiels and they are the sweetest birds, so I thought the best pet for a child (Rita is a responsible 12-year old) might not be a Conure, as they are described as being somewhat vocal.

I discovered a Blue-Crested (Crowned) Conure in need of a home at my local bird store and became fascinated with him. Vinnie, as he is known, had been previously owned by an older woman who could no longer care for him. He is a sweet bird and he talks, so I having read Ms Watkins book decided to give it a whirl, and I brought him home. Now I can honestly say that a Conure can be as sweet as a Cockatiel. He makes some noises like a Crow, but I have three barking Poms, so he is mild in comparison (and he's learned to bark).

THE CONURE HANDBOOK by Anne Watkins has proved a goldmine for this impulsive bird owner. Watkins explains how to choose a new baby or do what I did, and look for an older Conure who exhibits good traits (including healthy). The idea that the only bird you can have is a newborn ain't necessarily so. Some older birds for sale or adoption have been put into care because their former owners simply could not take care of them anymore.

MY new Conure Vinnie is getting along well with my "shelter" Cockatiels, and I use Ms Watkins book to inform me about foods Vinnie can eat as well as other requirements. The book is filled with easy to read text and many photos of the various members of the Conure species. Based on my experience, I am thinking I may purchase more and different buddies.