Java is my bird. He's an eclectus parrot. First off, I have to hand it to some friends of mine who brought me in touch with Java. These birds have a natural tendancy to be good pets for many reasons... overall they're quiet, small not-so-gooey poo, they can talk and they like just being with their owners. These birds also normally don't loose their feathers all at once like normal birds, they do their feather replacement year-round which helps keep the allergies down for those who are allergic to birds. These birds do have 2 basic needs that owners need to be aware of. They are social birds - you should plan to be around the bird (if not in direct contact) much of the day if possible (ie: don't plan on just taking the bird out for 30min per day and saying "hi" to it). They are also fairly large birds and really need to have a good sized place to hang out (if they must be caged).

In my case, Java is THE most well behaved bird that I have EVER come across. He is normally quiet unless he's telling me his food dish is empty. When being held he will NEVER bite someone hard (he will take a finger and gently push it away if he doesn't like what you're doing). He's been introduced to many people so far and has never bitten anyone or done harm. Even the vets and groomers have commented on it.

Java does have 1 problem. Ever since I broke up with a previous girlfriend, he's been plucking his feathers out. I believe it was in reaction to her leaving, but it's turned to habit at this point. I am having the vet run tests next week to have him checked out to make sure it's a psych problem and then we can figure out how to fix it.

Some of the best things about Java... I've taught him to go poo on command - he has about 15min between them and he knows to go before he gets out of the cage. Keeps mess to a minimum for type-A personalities, also makes vet trips w/ stool samples easier. He's also happiest just perched on an arm or shoulder and left to look around. He's not overly active and demanding - just needs to be out and with me. There's also this really neat food formula called Roudybush which helped his feathers grow brighter, produces less mess around the cage from un-eaten seeds and has allowed him to maintain a good/constant weight.