Maximillion Pionus

Question
Hi Chrys,
You helped me back in March when I was trying to decide on which breed of parrot to get.  At last, some 7 months later, I have settled on a Maxi's Pionus.  Found a great breeder a couple of weeks ago and going to choose from a clutch of 3 tomorrow.  The breeder says that males and females have the same temperament so she only DNA tests if specifically asked.  I have read from about 5 or 6 different sources that females are more gentle and loving than hormonal males.  Or would you say it really down to each individual bird?  I am just feeling so stressed out about it.  Hope you can offer some advice.
Many thanks,
Roz  

Answer
Hi, Roz.  Thanks for posting!

Females can be just as hormonal as males!  If you have no interest in breeding your bird, than just pick one based on what you see when you go to pick the bird you want.  Their temperament depends on the individual bird and how you raise it.  Be sure to handle each bird and it's usually best if you let the bird pick you (not you pick the bird).

This breeder should DNA sex her birds regardless.  A potential bird owner wants to know the sex of the bird they are buying (maybe not now, but later)!  What if you decide later you want to breed your bird (you can always DNA sex s/he later...it's only about $20)?   

Chrys