Triton cockatoo

Question
Hi its connor and I was wondering about how much time will I eed to spend with my triton and are tritons hard to take care of because I'm a first time bird owner but I've been reading up on them for the past 4 months

Answer
Hi Connor,

 I am going to suggest that you start with a first bird that is NOT a cockatoo. Cockatoo's are one of the most sensitive and demanding birds that they are. Often what you read about them tells you only the things that sound great and not about the drawbacks. I have years and years of bird experience and am much older than you. I also dont have the demands of school, and other things that someone your age has now and will have in the very near future. Even with that I have chosen not to become a cockatoo owner because I dont feel I have what it takes to properly handle one. Tritons especially can be nervous, difficult birds to deal with even with an owner who has years of experience. Another thing you need to think about is that in the years not too far away you will most likely be going off to college. This bird is going to live 50-60 years and probably will not be able to go with you when you go away to school. What will happen to your bird then? Even if you are still around now and then, that kind of change may cause plucking and screaming behaviors and make your bird miserable. There  are so many cockatoos in need of being rescued now because too many people try getting one as a first bird and then it turns into a mess. Dont add to this problem.

 Cockatoos are magnificent birds but I think especially for a first bird you need to start with something smaller and much easier to care for. 4 months of reading is nowhere enough to call yourself experienced with big birds. Look into a cockatiel or one of the small conures. They may not seem as exciting at first but I can assure you that they are wonderful little personalities. They can be just as good a companion and will be much more tolerant of the upcoming changes in your life. They are also excellent birds for learning with.

Good luck to you.

Jan