Home » Plants & Animals » Small Hookbills » Chubb's Story

Chubb's Story

© Mary Wilson

Of all the birds I've ever had offered to me, parakeets come up most often in the conversation. I don't know if it's because they are often bought as a children's bird, for the children to take care of, and the bird soon becomes the parent's responsibility. Or it might be that they seem so cute for fifteen minutes in the store, but once home, they turn out to be different from expectations. Either way, I have acquired two parakeets in this fashion.

Chubb is a recent addition to my bird room. One of the temporary workers mentioned that her little brother (16) had a parakeet that he didn't like. Apparently Chubb's buddy had passed away a year or so ago, and this bird vocalized from morning until night, pining for his buddy, I guessed. I agreed, for Ozzie, my other gifted parakeet, needed a buddy, and I knew I could provide a good home for Chubb.

Chubb arrived in a nice parakeet cage with ample perches and food and water dishes. He also came with a large supply of food. While he appeared frightened in the car, on the drive home, he began to chirp along with the radio and warble his parakeet songs. He expressed no apprehension towards me.

His first few hours with Ozzie were a delight to watch. At first, Chubb hovered in the corner, looking at his new friend. Soon, he ventured toward the food and water dishes, much to Ozzie's dismay, but after a minor scuffle, the two settled down.

It is a delight to watch Chubb and Ozzie play together. He enjoys toys, something I suspect he never had before. This beautiful blue bird, with possible spangling on his wings, is a joy to watch. The constant singing, of which his former owners complained, is nearly nonexistent. Ozzie and he get along like old chums, and I am delighted that I was able to provide a good home for Chubb.

Note: Although with Chubb, I did not use quarantine procedures, it is recommended that all birds, regardless of the source, go through proper quarantine procedures, which include at least 30-45 days in a separate cage and room from the rest of your flock. In addition, two birds should first be introduced in side by side cages, rather than just placed together. This time, everything worked out.

The copyright of the article Chubb's Story in Small Hookbills is owned by Mary Wilson. Permission to republish Chubb's Story in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.