Posted by featherface on November 05, 2002 at 22:47:33:
In Reply to: A bird buddy >>>> posted by Cleopatra on November 05, 2002 at 19:20:10:
I am deeply in love with my quakers, but I will try to give unbiased info :)
Quakers tend to be quite territorial. Especially of their cages and playgyms. Anything they consider to be theirs. They will bond to one person, if not handled daily by everyone in the family. Once bonded they tend to bite and hiss at anyone other than the chosen person.
They are wonderful little clowns with all of the attitude of a big parrot, packed into a small package. They arent good with smaller birds at all and will go for the toes. They are also fearless with any other bird, no matter what the size. I truly believe that quakers do not realize that they arent big parrots! I have different species of birds and I always monitor very closely when they are out of the cage at the same time. They also have separate playgyms. So far we have not had any accidents, but I will always supervise closely to prevent any. Quakers can be loving little cuddlebugs. Mine will sit with me for hours on end. Purring in my ear, grooming and preening my hair and chattering away to me. They are usually great little talkers, using phrases and words in correct context.
In general quakers are sweet little characters packed full of energy and always needing to be occupied with something. If purchased while young or raised with other species, they can adapt to being around them. Quakers are quite hardy and adapt easily to change. However, they need alot of attention and out of cage time. They can be demanding in that sense. My quakers are out of the cage for most of the day. About 4-5 hours minimum, usually closer to 8 or 9 hours is what my birds spend out of the cage. I think a quaker would do well with at least 3 hours out of cage time per day as long as the rest of his time is occupied with toys and such to keep him busy. If they are not getting their needs met, then they can become screamers and/or resort to self mutilation. QMS - quaker mutilation syndrome, is not uncommon.
One important factor when considering a quaker, they are illegal in some states. A very very good link for you to do some research on these little guys is posted below including the info on legality. Good luck!
